Renewed leadership for eight State Government departments

Premier Mark McGowan has welcomed a number of changes by Public Sector Commissioner Sharyn O'Neill to renew senior leadership in the public sector.

The Commissioner's changes reflect the McGowan Government's new Ministry and key priorities established for the next four years, as well as the pending retirement of four directors general.

Vacancies are being created by the impending retirements of Gail McGowan at the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (August); David Smith at the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (June); Duncan Ord at the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (August), and Anne Driscoll at the Department of Training and Workforce Development (August), who has completed her service and is currently on entitled leave.

With initiatives in the WA Recovery Plan well underway and many departments moving to new phases of operations, the Commissioner has strategically placed leaders to deliver maximum benefits for the Western Australian community.

The Public Sector Commission will commence recruitment processes in due course for the five agencies with vacancies in the director general position.

As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:

"The public sector has seen us through some difficult times over the past 18 months brought about by the pandemic.

"In addition to responding to the State's health needs during the crisis, sector leaders have driven the WA Recovery Plan to get WA businesses open and communities back on their feet quickly, and I thank them all for this work.

"The departure of some directors general who are retiring has created an opportunity for renewal and rejuvenation in the senior leadership roles within the public sector.

"I thank these directors general for their years of service to the Government and wish them well as they soon embark on their new paths.

"These important changes display the strength of public sector leadership to be adaptable, collaborative, responsive and prepared to serve wherever the need for their skills and experience is greatest."

* It is intended that Jodi Cant will return to her role as Director General at the Department of Finance once recruitment and an appointment is finalised at the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage.