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Kelly O'Shanassy

Chief Executive Officer

Kelly O'Shanassy



Current Position: Chief Executive Officer
Organization: Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF)
LinkedIn Profile: [Kelly O'Shanassy - LinkedIn](https://au.linkedin.com/in/kellyoshanassy)

Professional Overview



Kelly O'Shanassy is a renowned sustainability leader and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Australian Conservation Foundation. She has significant experience in executive roles across business, government, and the community sector. Her leadership focuses on advancing environmental advocacy and sustainability initiatives.

Career Achievements and Focus



  • Environmental Advocacy: Kelly believes in advocating for environmental change by transforming existing systems to create sustainable futures. She has a history of establishing world-first environmental protection policies, boosting recycling efforts, and safeguarding rivers from overuse.


  • Clean Energy Initiatives: She has played a pivotal role in promoting clean energy, aiming to make homes more energy and water efficient while reducing the costs and complexities of recycling.


  • Community Empowerment: Kelly is dedicated to mobilizing people to support environmental causes. She emphasizes the power of collective action, striving to increase the number and diversity of voices in environmental advocacy.


  • Business Leader Support: Recognized for her work with business leaders, Kelly has been instrumental in advising CEOs on sustainability, aiding them in transitioning towards more sustainable business models. Her efforts were recognized when she was named among the top 100 business women in Australia by the Telstra Business Women’s Awards.


Publications and Presentations



  • Kelly has been a speaker at various forums, including the 2022 Better Futures Forum, where she discussed renewable export opportunities. She also addresses environmental issues at prominent platforms such as the National Press Club of Australia.


Personal Background and Interests



  • Kelly's affinity for nature is deeply personal. She grew up in challenging conditions which taught her the importance of community and the reliance of humans on nature. Her experiences living in a caravan with no running water and studying environmental science have shaped her robust advocacy for the environment.


  • In her spare time, Kelly enjoys kayaking along Australia's rivers, blending her passion for nature with leisure activities.


Notable Projects and Advocacy Efforts



  • Protection and Restoration: Kelly has been instrumental in protecting Australia's rivers and forests, fighting against coal mines, and encouraging the shift to renewable energy.


  • Community Campaigns: Under her leadership, ACF has launched several campaigns, including:

  • Save Our Big Backyard

  • Renewable Powered Australia

  • Nuclear Free

  • Food That's Good for People and Nature


Relevant Links








Kelly O'Shanassy exemplifies a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and community-driven advocacy. Her diverse experiences and strategic leadership place her as a key figure in the ongoing efforts to protect and enhance Australia's natural environment.