Former Liberal treasurer to lead government climate change body after quitting politics

Former NSW Liberal treasurer Matt Kean has been named chair of the federal government’s Climate Change Authority after quitting state politics last week.

The background: Kean will lead the independent statutory body, which advises the Commonwealth on climate change policy.

He has previously been outspoken on climate issues within the NSW Liberal Party.

The key quote: “My role is to bring my expertise and experience to provide independent advice to the government of the day — whoever that should be — based on facts, based on science, based on economics and engineering.” — Matt Kean.

What else to know: Kean announced his retirement from state politics last week, saying he intended to pursue a career in the private sector.

Kean will take over from Grant King, who resigned after more than three years in the role.