The board at Sydney Gas has been the object of much criticism lately by shareholders over excessive payments to directors and executives. Butcher said that Mr Carroll's strategic vision would improve the board's overall skill, knowledge, accountability and effectiveness.

Last year, Carroll retired from Woodside where he served for over 21 years as a senior finance executive and the last five years as chief financial officer. Carroll was instrumental in arranging the finance for the North West Shelf gas project.

The Board of Sydney Gas now comprises of Domenic Martino (chairman), Dr Bruce Butcher (chief executive officer and managing director), Artur Birkner, John Castleman, Bruce McKay and Robert Carroll.