Ben Klaassen is a highly respected leader within the Queensland Public Service, currently serving as the Deputy Director-General of Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and Partnerships (QPWS&P).
With a career dedicated to the stewardship of Queensland’s natural and cultural heritage, Ben is deeply committed to fostering inclusive workplaces that reflect the diversity of the communities QPWS&P serves. As a Champion of Change, Ben has been a vocal advocate for gender equity and diversity, recognising their critical importance in building resilient, innovative, and high-performing teams.
Ben has been a key supporter of the establishment of staff networks such as Possum Drey, the internal Gender Equity grassroots Community of Practice and Pyrodiversity, a network focused on increasing diversity in fire services. His leadership in this space is exemplified through his role as the Executive Sponsor of Possum Drey, where Ben has supported initiatives that empower staff, promote inclusive leadership, and address systemic barriers to equity.
Updates from the Fire and Emergency Group
Champions of Change Fire & Emergency
Ben Klaassen is a Member of the Champions of Change Fire & Emergency Group which was established in 2017 in partnership with the Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authorities Council (AFAC). The group includes Chief Executives and Commissioners leading more than 30 agencies responsible for fire, emergency and land management services across Australia and New Zealand. The group is committed to advancing gender equity, inclusive cultures and achieving significant and sustainable improvements in the representation of women in their workplaces.