The Cook Government has appointed Mr Travis Robinson as Chair of the Zoological Parks Authority (ZPA) Board, alongside the reappointment of four members and the appointment of one new member.

  • Mr Travis Robinson appointed Chair of the Zoological Parks Authority Board
  • Mr Liam Nicholls appointed as a new Board member
  • Four current Board members reappointed
  • The Board will continue to guide Perth Zoo's strategic direction and delivery of its 20-year Master Plan

The Cook Government has appointed Mr Travis Robinson as Chair of the Zoological Parks Authority (ZPA) Board, alongside the reappointment of four members and the appointment of one new member.

With senior executive experience across the private sector and State Government, Mr Robinson brings strong capabilities in stakeholder engagement, organisational leadership, and the development of high‑performing teams.

Mr Robinson is the chief operating officer at Australian Capital Equity, currently serves on the Board of Horizon Power, and the Australia Indonesia Business Council, and is a 2026 Eisenhower Fellow.

He was first appointed to the ZPA Board as a member in August 2024 and has served as acting deputy Chair since 1 January 2026, positioning him well to guide Perth Zoo over the next two years.

Mr Liam Nicholls is a new appointee to the Board and brings a wealth of experience across commercial and public law.

As a barrister and former senior adviser within government and the State Solicitor's Office, he adds deep expertise in litigation, regulatory matters, and governance, strengthened by his prior board experience with WA Bar Chambers Ltd.

Four ZPA Board members have been reappointed, including Mr Tully Carmady as deputy Chair, Professor Kris Warren, Ms Vanessa Martin, and Mrs Megan Keep.

Comments attributed to the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:

"As Perth Zoo continues to deliver on its 20-year Master Plan, this is a pivotal time to welcome a new Chair.

"Perth Zoo at its core is a conservation agency working to protect endangered species and wild habitats, while also welcoming more than 800,000 visitors annually for educational and inspiring experiences.

"That makes Perth Zoo a uniquely complex commercial conservation organisation, and as a much‑loved Western Australian institution, serving on the Zoological Parks Authority Board is a significant honour.

"I congratulate Mr Robinson on his appointment to Chair, welcome new member Mr Nicholls, and acknowledge the reappointment of Mr Carmady, Professor Warren, Ms Martin, and Mrs Keep.

"I look forward to working with the Board as it guides the zoo through its next phase of development and growth."