The Australian Government extends its thanks to the Australian Public Service Commissioner, Mr Peter Woolcott AO, who has announced his retirement following a distinguished four-decade long career of public service to the Australian community.
Mr Woolcott’s five-year term as Public Service Commissioner has seen some significant achievements, including the first APS Workforce Strategy and the launch of the APS Academy. Under Mr Woolcott’s leadership, the APSC has played a key role in driving reforms to build a stronger APS. As Minister for the Public Service I have valued his advice, contributions and support since being appointed to the role.
Mr Woolcott’s career has spanned over 40 years. He held senior positions at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, notably as Australian High Commissioner to New Zealand, Australia’s chief negotiator on the Paris Agreement on climate change and Australian Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva.
He was appointed as an Officer in the Order of Australia in 2017 for his outstanding work in international relations, including his role as a lead negotiator in non-proliferation and arms control.
I would like to thank Mr Woolcott for his leadership and distinguished and dedicated service and I wish him all the best for the next stage in his life.
A merit-based recruitment process is underway to appoint the next APS Commissioner.