Salute for leadership of resources regulator

• Department of Mines and Petroleum Director-General receives top honour

• Recognition of outstanding innovation and administration

Director-General of the Department of Mines and Petroleum (DMP), Richard Sellers, has been awarded the Institute of Public Administration of Australia's (IPAA) highest accolade.

Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion said only 200 people had received the National Fellow Award in the past 30 years.

"A National Fellowship is an honour reserved for select members of the institute whose accomplishments reflect public sector leadership and strong contributions to public administration and the institute," Mr Marmion said.

"Richard's governance of the DMP during a period of rapid growth in the State's resources sector has been exemplary.  In the five years since his appointment, he has overseen significant reforms and innovations that have enhanced service delivery."

The Minister said some of the Liberal National Government initiatives implemented by

Mr Sellers included streamlining the approval process, Reforming Environmental Regulation, establishing the Mining Rehabilitation Fund, introducing the Exploration Incentive Scheme and reforms to health and safety in the resources sector.

"The key to Richard's success has been his insistence on consultation and transparency in decision making," he said.

In June this year, Mr Sellers received the IPAA Patrons Award for WA, in recognition of his significant contribution to the State.

Fact File

• Recent IPAA National Fellow Award recipients have included WA Auditor-General Colin Murphy, Department of Housing Director-General Grahame Searle, Deputy Ombudsman Dr Peter Wilkins and WA Planning Commission chairman Eric Lumsden

Minister's office - 6552 6800