The Power of Passion: Kelsey Gray's Journey in Environmental Advocacy

When you think about the path that leads to making an impact in climate change, it's easy to imagine a linear trajectory, one paved with clear intentions and straightforward choices. However, the remarkable journey of University of Newcastle alumna Kelsey Gray, from passionate student to global advocate, demonstrates the inspiring and often unconventional nature of such a pursuit.

Meet Kelsey Gray, a Science and Law graduate of the University of Newcastle. Growing up in Orange, in regional NSW, Kelsey has always been “deeply passionate”  about the environment. Kelsey speaks highly of her early education, reflecting on her understanding of the greenhouse effect and environmental issues from a young age. This early awareness instilled in her a deep-seated commitment to protecting the natural world.

“When I was close to finishing school, I was deciding between a career in health or a career in environmental law. The strength of my passion for the environment, and its prominence in my life since a young age, pulled me in the latter direction.”

Kelsey’s time at university was transformative, shaping her perspectives and igniting her passion for environmental protection and global affairs. As a student, she wasn't afraid to forge her own path, blending her studies in natural sciences with law and preferring Model UN Conferences to mock trials.

"I gained a depth of knowledge, a genuine appreciation for all facets of the law and justice system, and a stronger sense of purpose. The enabling environment at the University of Newcastle taught me valuable life lessons. The Law School invested in each student as an individual and encouraged us to pursue our passions."

“With the University’s support, I attended COP23 during my first year of university . I was 18 and thought that a career in environmental law was my calling… It was while I was watching the negotiators at work that I realised this is what my mind envisioned when I said ‘environmental law’ – representatives from around the world working together to agree on solutions to climate change. COP23 introduced me to climate diplomacy, and I never looked back.”

Kelsey’s journey continued beyond the classroom, with opportunities that took her across the globe. From interning at the Supreme Court of Justice in Brazil, to studying in Singapore and undertaking an internship with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific. These international experiences invigorated her passion for global affairs and shaped her perspective about the world.

“My time abroad as a New Colombo Plan (NCP) scholar was the highlight of my undergraduate experience. The NCP program allowed me to intern and study across Southeast Asia for 10 months. Being accepted for an internship at the UN Regional Headquarters in Bangkok was a surreal experience as I had spent years aspiring to work for the UN and was finally able to make this a reality. Working at the heart of global bureaucracy and governance was eye-opening and incredibly rewarding. The skills I gained while working in such an international environment have gone on to significantly influence my career.”

Aside from her international adventures, Kelsey credits on-campus activities and opportunities for her successful career.

“Volunteering, organising events, and running student societies provided me with important leadership skills which have influenced my professional journey.  Leadership starts at home - I am grateful to the University for providing me with so many opportunities to realise this.”

After graduating from her Bachelor of Laws (Honours) in 2021, Kelsey took the first steps in her career, gaining employment as a graduate lawyer. This valuable – albeit brief - stage of her career included a secondment to a social justice centre and her admission to the Supreme Court of NSW.

After moving to Canberra, Kelsey transitioned to a role as Climate Change Adviser at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C).

Kelsey’s focus as an adviser is on international climate policy, where Kelsey works to ensure that Australia’s presence on an international stage accelerates global climate action and promotes our national strategic objectives. Kelsey describes her job as “energising, dynamic and highly rewarding” due to its mix of diplomacy, climate policy, and strategy. Alongside her team, Kelsey contributes to key international meetings such as the G7, G20, and United Nations Climate talks, where she plays a crucial role in shaping Australia's stance on climate change on the global stage.

“Hundreds of public servants contribute to these meetings and it’s always surreal to see a small mark of your contribution in the final product – whether that be a line in the Prime Minister’s speech or language in a diplomatic text which you helped to negotiate.”

Currently, Kelsey is pursuing a Master's degree at the University of Oxford, studying Environmental Change and Management. Her goal is to become an interdisciplinary climate leader who leaves a positive mark on the world, a testament to her unwavering dedication to environmental protection and global sustainability.

“At this early stage of my career, every day is a learning adventure with new tasks, skills, and knowledge to ascertain. The ability to think on your feet, and be comfortable with the uncomfortable, are both important attributes to have early in your career.”