Gregory Paine is a researcher at Western Sydney University. He undertakes research at both Western Sydney University and the University of New South Wales. This follows more than 20 years of experience in environmental planning practice in State and local government, and overseas. This work resulted in a number of professional awards.

Following initial qualifications in town planning from the University of New South Wales, Greg completed a master's degree in environmental management through the WHO Collaborative Centre for Environmental Health at the then University of Western Sydney, and subsequently a doctorate in sustainable development. This research took an integrative and multi-disciplinary approach to investigate how individuals understand, evaluate, and practice 'sustainable development' in their everyday lives.