James Thomas has started a new role at Burnett Mary Regional Group as Director of Public Affairs / Advocacy. He joins the not-for-profit regional body after spending four and a half years in government roles, most recently as Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Policy Adviser to the Minster for the Environment.

In addition, James has taken up a part-time position as Head of Australian Government Relations for EV Maritime, a New Zealand marine technology business dedicated to developing electric and alternative energy commercial boats, with the aim of decarbonising the harbour cities of the world.

James previously spent over two decades in media and journalism, including roles at the ABC, Seven Network, Paramount Pictures, Sky News, and Nine Network.