Professor Thom's outstanding academic career includes over 100 publications plus many conference presentations, international representation at learned body level, and appointments as Professor and Vice-Chancellor. From this base he has created a wide and effective interface between first rate research and the formulation and implementation of policy and strategies in environmental management, particularly of coastal regions.
As a strategic leader, Professor Thom has become the pivot around which critical tracts of national coastline will in future become managed in much more sustainable ways. He has the special capability of being able to translate a complex area of science and technology into terms understandable by ministers, officials, citizens and developers and to create coalitions of scientists, technologists, economists, planners, lawyers and public officials.
Professor Thom's translation of science into environmental policy and practice is exceptional, and recognised by Chairmanship of numerous national Councils and Inquiries in this arena. His work to create an effective coastal policy in New South Wales is at the national and international forefront of the refinement and implementation of the principles of sustainable development.