The co-chair of an appeals committee examining the decision to allow a controversial gas expansion used to work for Chevron.Environment Minister Reece Whitby says he wasn't previously aware of Professor McKirdy's background and is seeking legal advice.
One of those companies is Chevron, which is a one-sixth foundation owner in the North West Shelf project. Environment Minister Reece Whitby said he sought the advice about the possible conflict after environmental groups raised the issue with him.The contentious Karratha gas expansion was given the green light after the state's Environmental Protection Authority recommended the ministerThe recommendation prompted hundreds of appeals from environmental groups, who were concerned the 50-year extension would blow Australia's carbon budget on the path to net zero.
His LinkedIn page shows he worked as a biosecurity science and risk manager for Chevron between 2013 and 2016 and sat on the Biosecurity Council of Western Australia between 2014 and 2023. Climate Action Minister Reece Whitby says he didn't know of Professor McKirdy's background at Chevron, but is seeking advice.Mr Whitby said he had not been aware Mr McKirdy had previously been employed by Chevron before receiving the letter.