About NGH
Meet the sustainable development experts
We’re NGH —a national environmental, planning and advisory consultancy guiding Australia toward a more sustainable tomorrow.
For over 30 years, we’ve upheld our reputation for providing progressive, collaborative and comprehensive consultancy services that achieve the exceptional. From day one we’ve gone beyond the expected, pioneering renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure services across regional and metropolitan Australia. Equipped with interdisciplinary expertise, we tackle challenges creatively and practically, delivering positive, flexible and impactful solutions that will endure for years to come.
At NGH, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. We work in partnership with our clients, our communities and our industry’s changemakers to shape a sustainable future for everyone. Because our nation is changing. It’s evolving faster than ever before, and we’re determined to facilitate this transformation, conscientiously. We’re navigating our tomorrow — supporting every stakeholder, facing every obstacle and redefining outdated practices to guide our nation toward a brighter, more sustainable future.
As a company, we take great pride in our contributions to some of Australia's biggest infrastructure projects and our ongoing leadership in the development of the growing renewable energy industry. While our origins lie on the New South Wales South Coast, we have since evolved into a dynamic and forward-thinking consultancy that is committed to delivering balanced and practical solutions Australia-wide.
Our vision is to be a significant driving force in the transition to a sustainable future, and we are dedicated to achieving this through the work we do. We strive to attract exceptional individuals who share our passion for meaningful projects that prioritise the preservation of our natural, cultural, and social resources.
Our core values of equality, respect, collaboration, and support are the pillars upon which we operate, and we endeavour to embody them in all aspects of our work
Erwin Budde
CEO
Our firm is built on science, ethics,
and commitment to sustainable development
In July 1992, we started an ethical company and began the journey to help shape a sustainable world. Today we are a highly respected team of 200 multi-disciplinary professionals recognised for supporting Australia's sustainable transition. In our 30 years of operation, we are proud to have helped our clients navigate countless projects in cities and remote communities across Australia.
Nick Graham-Higgs
Founding Director
Our history
Our guiding principles
To be an influential leader in the transition to a sustainable future based on science and ethics.
To empower our team to deliver innovative, ethical, and comprehensive projects, whilst fostering collaboration and partnership ensuring benefits for our clients, community, and environment.
Our commitment to reconciliation
“I am a proud Wiradjuri woman who was born in Cowra, New South Wales and I am part of the very large Murray, Gordon, and Jeffries families. I grew up hearing Dreamtime stories from my wonderful Grandparents about the importance of caring for our earth and how our people shape one of the most sustainable cultures in the world.
Feeling connected to my Country is important to me, and I feel working in this industry has completely aligned both my professional and personal values.
NGH provides me with a culturally safe working environment, and it is a place where I can be who I am without discrimination or judgement. I believe celebrating, preserving, and connecting with our First Nations culture are genuine priorities for NGH and I have never been prouder to be part of this organisation.
With the implementation of a RAP, this will formalise what we are already trying to achieve as an organisation but will also fundamentally strengthen our relationship with our communities and support all our staff in their understanding of the importance of true reconciliation.”
Breannah Schubach
Principal, Communications & Engagement
Inside NGH
Through this video, we hope to convey the essence of who we are as a firm, what we stand for, the things we value most, and the people who are at the heart of everything we do – our team.
You will see that our passion for excellence is matched only by our commitment to creating a positive impact in the world. And witness the dedication and hard work that goes into everything we do, and our unwavering focus on providing the best possible service to our clients.
Get to know us better #nghptyltd
It is International Women’s Day, a day to acknowledge the achievements and contributions of women throughout history.
This year’s theme is “Count her in”, emphasising the importance of counting in women and girls in all aspects of life, from data collection to decision making processes. The focus on counting in women is centred on the recognition that women and girls often face invisibility and marginalisation, which particularly shows up in data and statistics. Many issues, such as violence against women, economic disparities, and barriers to education, remain hidden or downplayed without accurate and comprehensive data.
As environmental scientists, we know better than most the importance of accurate data and the robustness that diversity brings.
I am extremely proud to lead an organisation where women are well represented at all levels:
🔹 Women represent 66% of all employees at NGH.
🔹 Women represent 74% of our leadership team from the Board down to Regional Managers, team leaders and in enabling functions.
🔹 Of our current graduate cohort of 15, 80% are women.
We are a company that supports and nurtures talent – regardless of gender.
While gender equality remains a critical topic, expanding the conversation to embrace diversity of thought, experience and background is imperative for innovation and growth. Creating an environment where individuals from all walks of life feel valued, respected
and empowered to contribute is key to our success
Over the next few weeks, you will see a different side of the amazing women at NGH. From skydivers to taiko drummers, photographers to scout leaders... each brings more than their gender to the table, they bring a wide range of diverse experience, backgrounds and
stories to share and contribute to the rich fabric of NGH.
We hope you enjoy these inspiring stories, Erwin Budde - NGH Chief Executive Officer.
It is International Women’s Day, a day to acknowledge the achievements and contributions of women throughout history.
This year’s theme is “Count her in”, emphasising the importance of counting in women and girls in all aspects of life, from data collection to decision making processes. The focus on counting in women is centred on the recognition that women and girls often face invisibility and marginalisation, which particularly shows up in data and statistics. Many issues, such as violence against women, economic disparities, and barriers to education, remain hidden or downplayed without accurate and comprehensive data.
As environmental scientists, we know better than most the importance of accurate data and the robustness that diversity brings.
I am extremely proud to lead an organisation where women are well represented at all levels:
🔹 Women represent 66% of all employees at NGH.
🔹 Women represent 74% of our leadership team from the Board down to Regional Managers, team leaders and in enabling functions.
🔹 Of our current graduate cohort of 15, 80% are women.
We are a company that supports and nurtures talent – regardless of gender.
While gender equality remains a critical topic, expanding the conversation to embrace diversity of thought, experience and background is imperative for innovation and growth. Creating an environment where individuals from all walks of life feel valued, respected
and empowered to contribute is key to our success
Over the next few weeks, you will see a different side of the amazing women at NGH. From skydivers to taiko drummers, photographers to scout leaders... each brings more than their gender to the table, they bring a wide range of diverse experience, backgrounds and
stories to share and contribute to the rich fabric of NGH.
We hope you enjoy these inspiring stories, Erwin Budde - NGH Chief Executive Officer.
There is a major shift afoot.
After three decades in the engineering sector’s shadow, environmental consulting firms are becoming a force in
their own right.
The growing emphasis on environmental sustainability, regulatory compliance, and social responsibility has fuelled
the demand for specialist environmental consulting services.
Gone are the days when merely obtaining the correct environmental reports were sufficient for project approval.
Today, the demand has shifted towards a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach that meets the ever-increasing demands from the community and facilitates project approval.
“Our clients are drawn to our project management and problem-solving capabilities, our specialised scientific
knowledge, our relationships with regulators, and our ability to bring multiple stakeholders together toward a common goal.” Erwin Budde, NGH CEO.
Read Erwin’s full article on our website 🤓
There is a major shift afoot.
After three decades in the engineering sector’s shadow, environmental consulting firms are becoming a force in
their own right.
The growing emphasis on environmental sustainability, regulatory compliance, and social responsibility has fuelled
the demand for specialist environmental consulting services.
Gone are the days when merely obtaining the correct environmental reports were sufficient for project approval.
Today, the demand has shifted towards a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach that meets the ever-increasing demands from the community and facilitates project approval.
“Our clients are drawn to our project management and problem-solving capabilities, our specialised scientific
knowledge, our relationships with regulators, and our ability to bring multiple stakeholders together toward a common goal.” Erwin Budde, NGH CEO.
Read Erwin’s full article on our website 🤓
We are thrilled to share that Elgin Energy’s Glanmire Solar Farm has been approved by the Independent Planning Commission NSW. The project, situated near Bathurst NSW, has a planned capacity of 60 MW for the solar facility and a 60 MW big battery capable of delivering 120 MWh of storage over two hours.
With a keen focus on successful community engagement and sustainability, our team prepared the Environmental Impact Statement, Response to Submissions, and Amendment Report.
We are proud to have worked alongside the Elgin team, guiding the project through the NSW State Significant Development planning process. The Glanmire Solar Farm represents another step forward in our shared journey toward a sustainable energy future.
We are thrilled to share that Elgin Energy’s Glanmire Solar Farm has been approved by the Independent Planning Commission NSW. The project, situated near Bathurst NSW, has a planned capacity of 60 MW for the solar facility and a 60 MW big battery capable of delivering 120 MWh of storage over two hours.
With a keen focus on successful community engagement and sustainability, our team prepared the Environmental Impact Statement, Response to Submissions, and Amendment Report.
We are proud to have worked alongside the Elgin team, guiding the project through the NSW State Significant Development planning process. The Glanmire Solar Farm represents another step forward in our shared journey toward a sustainable energy future.
In December 2023, the NSW Government issued a renewed Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP) over Lake Victoria. This permit marks a significant step in safeguarding the area’s rich Aboriginal cultural heritage values.
Lake Victoria, a key part of the Murray-Darling Basin, is home to a cultural landscape rich with history, dating back 28,000 years. The lake’s shores are scattered with significant Aboriginal sites, including burials, middens, and stone artefacts, highlighting its profound cultural and archaeological importance.
Our heritage team undertook the Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment for this project working in partnership with stakeholders and the Aboriginal community. NGH’s innovative use of GIS-based modelling coupled with field survey has been instrumental in creating a framework for ongoing landscape management and conservation.
“The AHIP application was the largest in NSW, with over 1,000 sites being part of the landscape management.” Matthew Barber, Technical Director - Heritage
#aboriginalculturalheritage #lakevictoria
In December 2023, the NSW Government issued a renewed Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP) over Lake Victoria. This permit marks a significant step in safeguarding the area’s rich Aboriginal cultural heritage values.
Lake Victoria, a key part of the Murray-Darling Basin, is home to a cultural landscape rich with history, dating back 28,000 years. The lake’s shores are scattered with significant Aboriginal sites, including burials, middens, and stone artefacts, highlighting its profound cultural and archaeological importance.
Our heritage team undertook the Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment for this project working in partnership with stakeholders and the Aboriginal community. NGH’s innovative use of GIS-based modelling coupled with field survey has been instrumental in creating a framework for ongoing landscape management and conservation.
“The AHIP application was the largest in NSW, with over 1,000 sites being part of the landscape management.” Matthew Barber, Technical Director - Heritage
#aboriginalculturalheritage #lakevictoria
Wrapping up an insightful week at the Australian Archaeological Association Annual Conference 2023.
As this year`s bronze sponsors, our heritage team had a fantastic time engaging with fellow enthusiasts. We hope the participants enjoyed the `chocolate coffee beans for Always Awake Archaeologists`.
Here`s to another year of incredible discoveries!
Wrapping up an insightful week at the Australian Archaeological Association Annual Conference 2023.
As this year`s bronze sponsors, our heritage team had a fantastic time engaging with fellow enthusiasts. We hope the participants enjoyed the `chocolate coffee beans for Always Awake Archaeologists`.
Here`s to another year of incredible discoveries!
Townsville-based Rock Lobster hatchery Ornatas Pty Ltd, stands as a beacon of innovation in sustainable aquaculture in the region. Powered by groundbreaking scientific methods and state of the art technology, this Australian enterprise is reshaping the future of aquaculture.
Our team provides environmental monitoring services, ensuring strict compliance with their environmental authority. This includes monitoring both marine and terrestrial waters surrounding the facility and assessing mangrove health to ensure the facility is not causing impacts.
"It is truly exciting to work with Ornatas, an organisation with a clear vision, applying cutting-edge practices, and a genuine commitment to growing and operating as a thriving, environmentally conscious aquaculture entity," Adam Folkers, NGH Regional Manager Environmental Management.
Ornatas embodies a commitment to environmental stewardship. From their environmentally sensitive practices to their circular approach of repurposing resources, is meticulously designed to harmonise with nature. With a steadfast vision and an unwavering commitment, Ornatas is redefining the aquaculture industry`s future.
Read the article on our bio to know more about this innovative project
#sustainableaquaculture #ngh
Townsville-based Rock Lobster hatchery Ornatas Pty Ltd, stands as a beacon of innovation in sustainable aquaculture in the region. Powered by groundbreaking scientific methods and state of the art technology, this Australian enterprise is reshaping the future of aquaculture.
Our team provides environmental monitoring services, ensuring strict compliance with their environmental authority. This includes monitoring both marine and terrestrial waters surrounding the facility and assessing mangrove health to ensure the facility is not causing impacts.
"It is truly exciting to work with Ornatas, an organisation with a clear vision, applying cutting-edge practices, and a genuine commitment to growing and operating as a thriving, environmentally conscious aquaculture entity," Adam Folkers, NGH Regional Manager Environmental Management.
Ornatas embodies a commitment to environmental stewardship. From their environmentally sensitive practices to their circular approach of repurposing resources, is meticulously designed to harmonise with nature. With a steadfast vision and an unwavering commitment, Ornatas is redefining the aquaculture industry`s future.
Read the article on our bio to know more about this innovative project
#sustainableaquaculture #ngh
From 2-8 October, we celebrate Australian Wildlife Week, a tribute to our diverse fauna and flora. Our talented team, have selected one or two of their own images to help raise awareness of wildlife conservation issues across Australia.
🐸 @elliot.budd our Senior Ecologist;
🐠James van den Broek, Senior Project Manager. Find out more on James’ Flickr at sharkjames;
🌺 @wildly_smart our Senior Ecologist;
🦎 @mick_fullerton_wildlife Fauna Spotter Catcher.
Through our lenses, we hope to inspire a greater appreciation for our natural heritage and encourage everyone to join us in safeguarding the wonders of our land.
#AustralianWildlifeWeek #NGH #Biodiversity
From 2-8 October, we celebrate Australian Wildlife Week, a tribute to our diverse fauna and flora. Our talented team, have selected one or two of their own images to help raise awareness of wildlife conservation issues across Australia.
🐸 @elliot.budd our Senior Ecologist;
🐠James van den Broek, Senior Project Manager. Find out more on James’ Flickr at sharkjames;
🌺 @wildly_smart our Senior Ecologist;
🦎 @mick_fullerton_wildlife Fauna Spotter Catcher.
Through our lenses, we hope to inspire a greater appreciation for our natural heritage and encourage everyone to join us in safeguarding the wonders of our land.
#AustralianWildlifeWeek #NGH #Biodiversity
The power of a simple question can never be underestimated. Let`s go beyond asking `Are you okay?` and truly connect with others. By encouraging and empowering each other, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and create a more caring, empathetic world.
We are commitment to positive change, collaboration, and a brighter future for all. Together, we can make a difference 💛
#ruok #mentalhealth #heretohear
The power of a simple question can never be underestimated. Let`s go beyond asking `Are you okay?` and truly connect with others. By encouraging and empowering each other, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and create a more caring, empathetic world.
We are commitment to positive change, collaboration, and a brighter future for all. Together, we can make a difference 💛
#ruok #mentalhealth #heretohear
