Former senior NSW Minister, the Hon. Dr Rob Stokes, has joined Macquarie Law School as Industry Professor, Environment and Sustainability, to drive world-leading research in sustainable urban development.
Working directly with scholars from the Macquarie Law School, Faculty of Arts and the wider University, Professor Stokes will identify strategic collaborations with government and industry partners to deliver change across sustainable urban development by fostering net-zero cities, advancing social justice and promoting sustainable urban environments.
“Professor Stokes has a long-standing history with Macquarie University as an alumni, Honorary Fellow and valued member of the Centre for Environmental Law. He embodies the values of Macquarie Law School and will be a wonderful addition to leverage our excellence in law, ethics, governance planning, environment and energy transformation,” says Professor Lise Barry, Dean of Macquarie Law School.
Professor Stokes will work with Macquarie University researchers to identify strategic partnerships and collaborations across areas such as urban governance, planning law, decarbonising infrastructure, urban design, active transport and housing justice.
“Professor Stokes brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Faculty of Arts, and we are looking forward to working with him to help inform high-impact research, partnerships and collaborations for Macquarie University,” says Professor Chris Dixon, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts.
Professor Stokes has held high-profile ministerial positions in the previous NSW State Government, including Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Minister for Education, Minister for Transport and Roads, and Minister for Infrastructure, Cities and Active Transport. Since leaving politics, Professor Stokes has shared his expertise in various consulting roles.
“Macquarie University has supported me to make an impact in the world, and now time for me support Macquarie to empower the next generation,” says Professor Stokes.