Within the Sustainable Economies team, Nelika Hughes manages Climateworks’ efforts to support an Australia–Pacific Island-led COP31 and elevate Australia’s ambition as a prospective host.  She convenes and facilitates policy dialogues domestically and internationally to shape a strong COP31 agenda that can raise climate ambition in Australia and around the world.

Previously at Climateworks, Nelika oversaw research and analysis for the Australia Country team, generating expert advice and solutions to help achieve Climateworks’ mission.

Nelika has an environmental management and research background with over 15 years of experience working across academic, government and not-for-profit sectors. 

Before joining Climateworks, she led complex environmental decision-making projects, engaging with state government agencies, Traditional Owners, and the broader community. Her research expertise covers critical conservation issues, including problem species, fire ecology and wildlife disease, and she has led research projects in Australia, Europe, and Central Asia. 

Nelika holds a PhD in Ecology and a Bachelor of Environmental Science with Honours, both from the University of New South Wales.