Paul Bourke worked in the Economic Analytical Unit and as a Japan Trade & Economic specialist at DFAT from 2003-2008. He left DFAT to work in the international carbon market in London and Asia and was also Head of Economics at the British Wind Energy Association during his time in the UK. He is curently Senior Advisor to Australian energy economics consultancy, CME.

He has a Master of International Affairs from the School of International & Public Affairs, Columbia University.