Bureau of Meteorology executive Peter Stone quits months after panned $96 million website relaunch

Dr. Peter Stone, who was acting CEO of the organization when a relaunch cost $92 million more than initially reported, was criticized by users for complaints about various features, usability and the new rain radar.

The old rain radar was quickly restored after pressure from the federal government, and Stone resigned from his role as acting CEO and was replaced by Dr. Stuart Minchin.

The Board has now confirmed that Stone will leave the agency entirely early next year after ending his active duties and taking an extended leave of absence next month.

Stone joined the agency in 2017.

“The Bureau of Meteorology’s Chief Customer Officer and Group Executive Business Solutions, Dr Peter Stone, has made the decision to retire,” a Bureau spokesperson told nine.com.au.

“Dr. Stone’s last day at the Bureau will be June 30, 2026.”

The agency has faced significant criticism from the public and politicians, with Environment Minister Murray Watt issuing a rebuke after Minchin exposed the overspending.

“The unyielding expectation of our government is that the BoM, like all federal agencies, spends taxpayers’ money efficiently and appropriately,” Watt said last year.

He appeared to endorse a change in leadership, saying he was “looking forward to a bit of a change in the culture and approach of the Board of Directors.”

Minister Watt’s office was contacted for comment.

NEVER MISS A STORY: Be the first to receive your latest news and exclusive stories by following us on all platforms.