Kiersten Fishburn has been appointed permanent secretary of the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, after acting in the role since the departure of Michael Cassel in May.

Planning minister Paul Scully said Ms Fishburn was a well-regarded NSW public sector leader who was recognised for driving positive change across her various roles, which include Deputy Secretary Cities and Active Transport with TfNSW, Secretary and Coordinator General of the DPIE Planning Delivery Unit, and Liverpool City Council CEO.

“Housing, planning and the environment are key priorities for this government, and I am confident Ms Fishburn has the dedication and fresh perspective to guide the department to important policy reform,” Mr Scully said.

Meanwhile, the government also announced the appointment of Josh Murray, a senior executive with global construction firm Laing O’Rourke, as Secretary of the Department of Transport.

Mr Murray has also worked in previous Premier, Deputy Premier and ministerial offices, including in transport portfolios.

Tranpsport minister Jo Haylen said strong leadership was needed to fix the state’s public transport system.

“As Group Leader of People at Laing O’Rourke, Josh Murray has the right skills and experience to lead an organisation that is heavily reliant on an engaged and enthusiastic frontline workforce,” she said in a statement.

Mr Murray takes over from acting transport head Howard Collins who temporarily filled the vacancy created by the axing of Rob Sharp by Premier Chris Minns in April.