Gregory Andrews is Australia's first Threatened Species Commissioner. Andrews could have a tough time ahead as the nation has worst poor mammal extinction rate across the globe.

Andrews, who has also handled the position of diplomat and senior bureaucrat within the Department of Environment, said a lot of money is being spent, but desired results are not being seen as many species are getting extinct.

He says there is a need to bring a change in the perception that only government is responsible for protecting threatened species. As per Andrews, everyone can play their part in preserving the wildlife of the nation.

Commissioner would not have power to intervene in development decisions. Federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt said the new Commissioner would need to consult, to target and to coordinate, but would not have statutory powers.

On the other hand, Greens Leader Christine Milne feels that the Commissioner should have more power and resources. "Without new statutory powers and independence, without sufficient funding all we are seeing is a public servant who will be overseeing the further deterioration in our natural environment and in our threatened species", stated Senator Milne.

Even the Australian Conservation Foundation and the International Fund for Animal Welfare think that Andrews need more power and funding, so that real change can be witnessed. International Fund for Animal Welfare's regional manager Isabel McRae said the condition of Australia's wildlife is bending towards decline.

To bring significant improvements, some serious changes are required. Andrews said he has a top team that would help him guide in decision making. Andrews said for more than 20 years now, he has been giving frank and fearless advice.

Hunt said the commissioner's first task would be to prepare a list of priority actions, so that speedy decline of the nation's threatened species can be stopped.