Understanding Australia’s Low Emissions Technology Journey: An Update on Goals and Actions

Thursday, 23 September 2021

12:30pm CEST

SPEAKERS

Kris McCoy  l  Counsellor (Europe), Industry, Science, Energy and Resources, Australian Embassy to France and Permanent Delegation to the OECD

Kris’s role focuses on advancing the relationship between Australia and European countries in relation to energy, resources, critical minerals, emissions reduction and climate matters.

Prior to commencing the Counsellor position, Kris was the Senior Executive Officer to the Secretary of the department, Mr David Fredericks, PSM. She operated in the Office of the Secretary both at the former Department of Environment and Energy and at DISER and supported the Secretary and Executive throughout the formation of the new department and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kris held several energy based roles before joining the Office of the Secretary, including leading the Strategic Policy and Governance team during a period of significant energy market

reform and change in Australia. She was also responsible for leading the establishment of Australia’s Energy Security Board and Gas Market Reform Group – both key institutions driving Australia’s energy transition.

Prior to these roles, Kris worked in a range of energy efficiency policy and program areas, culminating in the leadership of Australia’s former Energy Efficiency Opportunities Program.  

 

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Sarah Brown  l  Counsellor (Europe), Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources, based in Brussels

Sarah is responsible for advancing the relationship between Australia and Europe on industry, science, research and technology matters. Prior to taking up this role in January 2021, Sarah was the Chief of Staff to Australia’s former Chief Scientist, Dr Alan Finkel. She supported Dr Finkel in advising the Australian Government on a wide range of science, research, education and innovation policies and issues. A particular highlight of her time with Dr Finkel was the release of Australia’s National Hydrogen Strategy and the first Low Emissions Technology Statement.

Prior to joining the Office of the Chief Scientist, she led international science policy in the department, with responsibility for the Global Innovation Strategy under the National Science and Innovation Agenda. Her section also led the bilateral science and innovation engagement with the European Union and its Member States, the United States of America, Canada, Singapore and Korea.

Sarah previously held senior roles in the peak body Universities Australia, including Policy Director International and Policy Director Research and Innovation, leading work on key policy and engagement documents and processes for the university sector. Her previous science and research related policy roles in the Australian Government included developing and implementing research infrastructure policy and national research and science investment planning and prioritisation.

Notes

Fight against COVID-19: Thank you for respecting the health recommendations in force in France: vaccination certificate or negative test of less than 48 hours or certificate of recovery from COVID-19.

Please note that places for this event are limited. ABIE France members will be given priority.

As this event will be held at the Embassy, please bring an identification document and allow extra time when arriving in order to pass security.