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 We’re navigating our tomorrow — supporting every stakeholder, facing every obstacle and redefining outdated practices to guide our nation toward a brighter, more sustainable future.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
1992
Nicholas Graham-Higgs and Associates established in Merimbula
Launched:
- Biodiversity services and environmental planning services
- Ski industry, hydro-electric, telecommunications, government and land development sectors
1994
Launched:
- Transport sector
1996
Became known as NGH
Launched:
- Regional forest agreement services
- Flora and fauna surveys
1998
Nicholas Graham-Higgs Pty Ltd established
1999
Launched:
- Mining and resources sector
2000
Merimbula office established
2002
Bega office established
2003
Started trading as NGH Environmental
2004
NGH Environmental Pty Ltd was established
Launched:
- Aquatic ecology and Environmental Management services
- Wind, infrastructure and transmission sectors
2005
Launched:
- Community engagement services
2006
Natascha Arens joins NGH and establishes Sydney office (Pymble)
2007
Erwin Budde joins NGH and establishes Wagga Wagga office
2009
Launched:
- Solar Farm services
2012
Canberra office established
2015
Newcastle office established
Matthew Barber joins NGH
Launched:
- Aboriginal Heritage services
2018
Jane Mills establishes Brisbane office
Launched:
- Battery storage services
2019
Gold Coast office established
Started trading as NGH Pty Ltd
Launched:
- Pumped Hydro services
2020
Wodonga office established
Launched:
- Advisory services
2021
Launched:
- Social sustainability, communications and engagement
- Social impact services
- Offshore wind and hydrogen sectors
2022
Acquired Wild Environmental
Townsville and Sunshine Coast offices established
Acquired Energy Forms (Melbourne)
Melbourne office established
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
Communications and Engagement Lead
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
What does 31 years of planning renewable energy developments bring?
A deep understanding of industry dynamics, the knowledge to anticipate potential challenges and opportunities, and strong guidance to support successful project outcomes.
Proudly NGH have contributed to three of the four solar farm State Significant projects under recommendation in New South Wales.
Hat’s off to NSW Department of Planning and Environment for progressing these important transitional projects.

What does 31 years of planning renewable energy developments bring?
A deep understanding of industry dynamics, the knowledge to anticipate potential challenges and opportunities, and strong guidance to support successful project outcomes.
Proudly NGH have contributed to three of the four solar farm State Significant projects under recommendation in New South Wales.
Hat’s off to NSW Department of Planning and Environment for progressing these important transitional projects. ...
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 ...
On the last Saturday of September 9th in Sydney, the @icomos_ga2023 triennial conference concluded. This extensive conference brought together global experts in the fields of heritage and conservation.
Throughout the 5-day conference, our co-sponsored space with @acciona , the Heritage Hub, featured an extensive panel discussion program. Topics ranged from Indigenous knowledge for a sustainable future,
to sustainable communities, and even included a book launch showcasing world heritage sites of Australia.
We extend our gratitude to everyone who organised, attended, and made this inspiring event a reality. We hope you left each conversation and panel discussion with the understanding that heritage is closely intertwined with sustainability. Addressing pressing issues and presenting opportunities for change is crucial to envision a sustainable future, both locally and globally.
#icomos #icomosga2023 #heritage #ngh

On the last Saturday of September 9th in Sydney, the @icomos_ga2023 triennial conference concluded. This extensive conference brought together global experts in the fields of heritage and conservation.
Throughout the 5-day conference, our co-sponsored space with @acciona , the Heritage Hub, featured an extensive panel discussion program. Topics ranged from Indigenous knowledge for a sustainable future,
to sustainable communities, and even included a book launch showcasing world heritage sites of Australia.
We extend our gratitude to everyone who organised, attended, and made this inspiring event a reality. We hope you left each conversation and panel discussion with the understanding that heritage is closely intertwined with sustainability. Addressing pressing issues and presenting opportunities for change is crucial to envision a sustainable future, both locally and globally.
#icomos #icomosga2023 #heritage #ngh ...
We are thrilled to kick off the public opening of @icomos_ga2023 tomorrow! 🎉
Join us for an awe-inspiring program at the Heritage Hub, our co-sponsored space with @acciona
For the opening day, Shoshanna Grounds, will co-chair a panel discussion on `Heritage as Sustainability: Policy` with Bayan F. El Faouri, Chair of ICOMOS Jordan National Committee for SDGs Working Group, and Christy Green (Wills), an emerging heritage professional.
Visit us from tomorrow, 5 – 9 September. Hope to see you at the Heritage Hub!
#ICOMOSGA2023 #HeritageHub #NGH #ACCIONAEnergia

We are thrilled to kick off the public opening of @icomos_ga2023 tomorrow! 🎉
Join us for an awe-inspiring program at the Heritage Hub, our co-sponsored space with @acciona
For the opening day, Shoshanna Grounds, will co-chair a panel discussion on `Heritage as Sustainability: Policy` with Bayan F. El Faouri, Chair of ICOMOS Jordan National Committee for SDGs Working Group, and Christy Green (Wills), an emerging heritage professional.
Visit us from tomorrow, 5 – 9 September. Hope to see you at the Heritage Hub!
#ICOMOSGA2023 #HeritageHub #NGH #ACCIONAEnergia ...
The Environmental Institute of Australia and New Zealand`s (EIANZ) annual conference is on this week in sunny Townsville and this year, we are proud sponsors. ☀️
For many years, EIANZ has facilitated communication between environmental practitioners from differing backgrounds and professions, and promoted environmental knowledge, awareness, and ethical environmental practices.
Our team members Fiona McKay, Jane Mills, Nick Baker and Michial Sutherland are enjoying the program and have loved connecting with other environmental professionals- feeling truly inspired!
Nick played a key role in hosting the morning session yesterday and the team enjoyed a gala dinner last night where they listened to guest speakers including Stephen Turton, Adjunct Professor, Environmental Geography at CQ University.
Today`s sessions include
- Emerging technologies in the environment sector
- Positive influence on environmental rehabilitation and restoration
- Emerging themes in the environment profession
A busy but exhilarating program that we`re thrilled to be part of!
📸 Fiona McKay

The Environmental Institute of Australia and New Zealand`s (EIANZ) annual conference is on this week in sunny Townsville and this year, we are proud sponsors. ☀️
For many years, EIANZ has facilitated communication between environmental practitioners from differing backgrounds and professions, and promoted environmental knowledge, awareness, and ethical environmental practices.
Our team members Fiona McKay, Jane Mills, Nick Baker and Michial Sutherland are enjoying the program and have loved connecting with other environmental professionals- feeling truly inspired!
Nick played a key role in hosting the morning session yesterday and the team enjoyed a gala dinner last night where they listened to guest speakers including Stephen Turton, Adjunct Professor, Environmental Geography at CQ University.
Today`s sessions include
- Emerging technologies in the environment sector
- Positive influence on environmental rehabilitation and restoration
- Emerging themes in the environment profession
A busy but exhilarating program that we`re thrilled to be part of!
📸 Fiona McKay ...
Today was the NGH “Threatened Species Day Bake Off”!
The bake off aims to build awareness in the community about Australia’s remarkable and unique threatened wildlife.
There were quite a few participants this year, but the winner is…Carissa’s Night Parrot 🦜 🥇
A special mention must also go to Tony and his Spotted Quolls! 👏🏼
Thanks to all our staff who participated and a big Congratulations to Carissa! 🏆
Take a look at the gallery and tell us how we did? 🍃🧁
Bring on 2023!

Today was the NGH “Threatened Species Day Bake Off”!
The bake off aims to build awareness in the community about Australia’s remarkable and unique threatened wildlife.
There were quite a few participants this year, but the winner is…Carissa’s Night Parrot 🦜 🥇
A special mention must also go to Tony and his Spotted Quolls! 👏🏼
Thanks to all our staff who participated and a big Congratulations to Carissa! 🏆
Take a look at the gallery and tell us how we did? 🍃🧁
Bring on 2023! ...