Govind Tekale
Adam Bandt, former federal Greens leader, will become Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) in January 2026, following Kelly O’Shanassy’s 11-year tenure.
Change at the Helm
ACF Board Chair Ros Harvey stated the appointment resulted from “a rigorous search… spanning many countries and including screening more than 300 candidates.” The board unanimously selected Bandt, with Harvey noting he has “the vision, the bravery and the experience required to meet the challenging years ahead as Australia grapples with devastating climate change and accelerating nature destruction.”
Political Background
Bandt served as Member for Melbourne from 2010 until 2025. He became the first Greens MP elected to the House of Representatives at a general election in 2010, served as co-deputy leader in 2012–2015 and 2017–2020, and led the party from 2020. His parliamentary career ended when Labor’s Sarah Witty won the Melbourne seat with 53% of the vote after preferences in the 2025 federal election.
ACF says Bandt “will not play any further active role in the Greens” as he takes up the ACF position.
ACF’s Environmental Mission
Established in 1965, the ACF ranks among Australia’s oldest environmental organizations. Its current goals include replacing 80% of coal, gas, and uranium exports with renewable energy by 2030.
O’Shanassy will remain CEO until late 2025 to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
Bandt’s Environmental Stance
In his video announcement, Bandt stated: “I’m Adam Bandt and I’m excited that next year I’ll be the new CEO of ACF, Australia’s largest people powered movement for nature and climate. It’s never been more important to make our voices heard. Nature is in crisis. People are sweltering through hot summers and worse. Bushfires and floods are destroying homes while coal and gas corporations make massive profits and pay no tax as they destroy this beautiful country we love.”
He added: “We need Parliament to protect koalas and people, not gas corporations. This could be the Parliament that stops extinction. But we’re going to have to make them listen. We’ve done it before and we can do it again. But we can’t do it without you.”
In his formal statement, Bandt said: “It is a true privilege to help lead Australia’s most respected voice for nature and climate at such a critical time. Kelly O’Shanassy has done incredible work and built a very strong organisation and I pay tribute to her huge efforts. Climate collapse is beginning, nature is in crisis and this is the parliament that can avoid extinction. This could be the best parliament ever for nature and climate. We’re setting politicians a test we hope they meet.”
Transition Process
O’Shanassy continues as CEO through 2025, with Bandt officially starting in January 2026. The announcement detailed the leadership change timeline and included statements from both Bandt and the ACF board.
