Blair Comley becomes new Department of Health and Aged Care Secretary

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced Blair Comley as the Secretary of the Department of Health and Aged Care.

Prime Minister Albanese said Mr Comley would bring 'innovation and policy rigour' to tackle the nation's health system challenges.

"He has strong economic qualifications and a proven leadership navigating complex issues," Mr Albanese said.

Mr Comley comes with a distinguished career across the Commonwealth and NSW public sectors.

He served as the Secretary of the Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism, as well as the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency from 2011 to 2013.

He then led the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet as Secretary between 2014 and 2017.

Mr Comley is currently serving as a director and partner at EY Port Jackson Partners, a business management consultant in Sydney.

The five-year appointment of Mr Comley as Secretary of the Department of Health and Aged Care will commence on July 17, 2023.

Mr Albanese acknowledged the honourable service of Professor Brendan Murphy, who held the position of Chief Medical Officer since 2016 and served as the Secretary of the Department of Health since 2020.

"Professor Murphy's service during the Covid-19 global pandemic kept Australians safe. I wish him well as he embarks on his well-deserved retirement," Mr Albanese said.

Mr Comley's appointment is expected to strengthen Australia's healthcare system and ensure the nation's health and aged care sectors receive the attention and expertise required to meet the population's evolving needs.

Further updates and details regarding the transition process and Mr Blair Comley's plans for the Department of Health and Aged Care are coming in the next weeks.

Do you have an idea for a story?
Email [email protected]