David Shankey, CEO

David Shankey is the Chief Executive Officer of the Net Zero Economy Authority. He leads the Authority’s work supporting Australia’s regions, workers, industries, businesses, and communities as the economy evolves toward net zero emissions. 
 
Mr Shankey oversees the Authority’s strategic direction and delivery, including regional transition engagement, post-mining land reuse coordination, workforce and industry transition planning, and alignment of Commonwealth investment with long-term regional economic priorities. Under his leadership, the Authority is strengthening its role as a trusted partner to regional communities, governments, industry, unions and investors navigating structural economic change. 

Prior to joining the Authority, Mr Shankey served as Deputy Director-General at Queensland’s Department of Energy and Public Works, where he led development of the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan. This reform established a clear pathway to transform the state’s energy system while supporting workers, industries and regional communities. His work included negotiating with unions and industry and establishing frameworks to support workforce transition. 
 
Mr Shankey previously held senior executive roles overseeing energy policy, strategic reform and renewable energy development. He also has experience in the resources sector and media. 
 
Mr Shankey brings deep expertise in managing complex economic and industrial transition, with a focus on practical delivery, regional economic resilience, and ensuring communities and workers are positioned to benefit from long-term structural change.