Dr Fleming became the Director of the Australian Antarctic Division in 2011 (Australian Antarctic Magazine 21: 1–3, 2011) following a long career in the federal and state public services and the not-for-profit sector.
Dr Fleming said it has been a privilege to be at the helm of such a strategically important government organisation for four years.
‘I am proud to have been a part of such a dynamic organisation and to have played a role in steering the future direction of Australia’s Antarctic program, ensuring we continue to work collaboratively with our international partners to improve global understanding of this magnificent region,’ he said.
During his time with the Division, Dr Fleming has been the Australian Commissioner of the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR), playing a key role in developing a proposal for Marine Protected Areas off East Antarctica. In 2012 he led a commemorative voyage to Mawson’s Hut at Commonwealth Bay, as part of the centenary of the Australasian Antarctic Expedition 1911–1914.
He championed the importance of promoting understanding and awareness of the value of Antarctica and the Australian Antarctic program by encouraging visits by high level officials, including hosting the first visit by an Australian Governor-General, Ms Quentin Bryce AD CVO, in 2013.
Dr Fleming has also driven the modernisation of the Australian Antarctic program, including the procurement process for a new Australian icebreaker to replace the ageing Aurora Australis.