I have today announced the appointment of Mr Christopher Langman
as Ambassador for the Environment. Mr Langman will replace Mr Ralph
Hillman, who has been Ambassador since November 1998. He is expected
to take up his appointment in March 2002.
The principal functions of the Ambassador for the Environment include
promoting Australia's national interests and policies on global
environment issues overseas and in Australia, representing the Government
at international conferences and negotiations on the environment
and providing policy advice to Government on international environment
issues. Reflecting these responsibilities, Mr Langman will report
to the Foreign Affairs and Trade portfolio Ministers and to the
Minister for the Environment.
Mr Langman's appointment reflects the Government's commitment to
contribute to international efforts to address global environmental
issues in a manner that is consistent with Australia's national
interests.
Mr Langman is a senior career officer of the Department of Foreign
Affairs and Trade and has held a wide range of positions in the
Department. His overseas postings include Buenos Aires, Washington
and Geneva, where he was the Deputy Head of Mission at Australia's
Mission to the United Nations. From 1998 to 1999, Mr Langman was
the Australian Automotive Trade Facilitator.
Most recently Mr Langman served as the Assistant Secretary of the
Environment Branch from 1999 to 2002.
Media inquiries: Julie McDonald (Departmental) 02 6261 1555
