On behalf of the Commonwealth Government, I acknowledge the passing of Phillip Toyne AO.
Phillip was a friend and a mentor, he was a true gentleman and he was both passionate and a highly effective exponent of deep practical conservation.
Phillip made a significant contribution to conservation and land management as one of the founders of Landcare, President of Bush Heritage Australia and as an Executive Director of the Australian Conservation Foundation.
From 1994-1997, Phillip also served as Deputy Secretary of the Environment Strategies Directorate under the Keating and Howard Governments. In this position he was responsible for a range of domestic policies including marine, climate change and ecologically sustainable development. He was a principal negotiator with the states and territories on the establishment and implementation of the Natural Heritage Trust.
Phillip was passionate about the environment and was a strong advocate for Indigenous land management and rights. His valuable and significant legacy will live on.
On behalf of the Commonwealth Government, I extend our condolences to his family and friends.
(ENDS)