Tracey White
Tonga
Tracey will be based in Nuku’alofa for twelve months with the Department of Environment (DoE) in Tonga as a Climate Change Policy Officer. This assignment is partnered with the Environmental Defender's Office New South Wales (Ltd).The assignment will take place in the framework of progress by parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) towards a new international treaty. Tracey will assist on capacity building in the areas of international climate change policy and research, stakeholder and community engagement and will support the DoE to prepare for participation in the negotiations.
Tracey hopes to assist with the preparation of responsive and practical policy reflecting ongoing international policy and scientific developments. She hopes to contribute to the establishment of a framework for ongoing engagement of stakeholders, youth and community organisations in the policy development process.
Since completing an Arts and Law degree Tracey has practiced as a solicitor in Far North Queensland in the field of planning and environment law with a community legal centre followed by several years with a private law firm specialising in this area. Participation in a volunteer program in Papua New Guinea provided her with some insight into the value of living and working with a community and the focus on sustainable development.
Tracey has a strong interest in international climate change law and policy and in empowering others through education and engagement. She believes this assignment offers her the opportunity to further this in a real world context, while learning about and experiencing Tongan lifestyle and culture. She is looking forward to maximising snorkelling opportunities during her placement.
