NATIONAL resource industry employer group AREEA commends Gary Gray on his outstanding political career and his exemplary contributions to the Australian resource industry.

“Gary Gray is highly regarded among resource employers for his consultative and considered approach, particularly when serving as resources minister and special minister for state under the Rudd and Gillard governments,” says AREEA chief executive Steve Knott.

“His prior experience as an executive with AREEA member Woodside Petroleum ensured he approached policy decisions with a deep understanding of the industry’s vital contribution to national and state economies, and what it takes for resource organisations to remain competitive in the long term.

“AREEA was particularly pleased to work with Gary on various recommendations from the 2010 National Resources Sector Employment Taskforce, where he actively engaged on a range of initiatives to address the industry’s skills requirements.

“This included the establishment of the Australian Women in Resources Alliance, a joint industry-government funded scheme to encourage greater diversity of our workforce, and recognising the role of responsible skilled migration programs in securing long-term jobs and economic benefits for all Australians.

“The retirement of a federal representative with strong ties to the resource industry and extensive knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing our sector will be missed.

“AREEA and its members congratulate Gary Gray on the leadership he demonstrated throughout his career and wish him well for the future.”

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