Alumnus of the Year

Civil and Environmental Engineering Alumnus of the Year

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Monash University has been producing outstanding engineering graduates for over half a century. Here we profile some of our most prominent graduates – each has made their mark in Australia and around the world.

Congratulations to our 2026 Civil and Environmental Engineering Alumnus of the Year: Paul Hamer

As a proud Monash University alumnus, Paul has let his passion for engineering guide his transition from graduate engineer to Minister in the Victorian Government. In May 2026, he was appointed as the Victorian Minister for Local Government, Youth Justice, and Corrections – becoming just the second engineer to serve in the Victorian Cabinet since the Second World War. Paul previously served as Parliamentary Secretary for Jobs and Economic Growth and has been the Member for Box Hill since 2018.

Paul received his undergraduate degree in civil engineering from the University of Melbourne, before completing a Master of Engineering Science (Research) at Monash University in the early 2000s.

Before entering parliament, Paul spent over two decades as an infrastructure engineer and project manager, working on many critical transport projects that have helped shape Victoria. For Paul, engineering was never simply about technical blueprints; it was a practical vehicle for helping others. He focused his career on ensuring that major public works delivered tangible social, economic, and environmental benefits to local communities.

This grounded, scientific mindset informs his approach to governance. Paul brings a deep respect for facts, evidence-based reasoning, and practical problem-solving to his ministerial portfolios. He remains committed to creating a fairer, more inclusive society by championing job creation, multiculturalism, and economic opportunity.

Grateful for the academic foundation that shaped his career, Paul is passionate about investing in the next generation. Through initiatives such as the annual Mollie Holman STEM Awards (awarded to school students in the Box Hill electorate), he actively promotes STEM education and encourages students – particularly female students – to pursue STEM careers.

Past Alumnus of the Year