SENATOR THE HON KATY GALLAGHER
MINISTER FOR FINANCE
MINISTER FOR WOMEN
MINISTER FOR THE PUBLIC SERVICE

STATEMENT ON THE RETIREMENT OF ROSEMARY HUXTABLE PSM

The Australian Government extends its thanks to the Secretary of the Department of Finance, Rosemary Huxtable PSM, who is retiring today following a distinguished three-decade long career of public service to the Australian community.

As Minister for Finance, I would like to thank Rosemary Huxtable on behalf of the Australian Government for her tireless dedication to public administration and for her advice and guidance to many governments of both political persuasions.

Ms Huxtable’s service has spanned several departments including Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Department of Health and the Department of Finance.

Today, Ms Huxtable departs as Secretary having completed an impressive nine budget cycles, including several Pre-Election Economic and Fiscal Outlook processes. On top of this work Rosemary has also led reform work on government transparency, public sector resourcing and transformation, procurement policy and of course her leadership role in the Australian Government’s response to COVID-19.

An APS leader of the highest standing, Ms Huxtable is universally admired for her direct and thoughtful advice and her ability to work collegiately across the APS. She has worked hard to develop and mentor others and leaves the Department of Finance with a strong leadership team in place.

As a leader of women across the APS Ms Huxtable forged ahead and paved the way for others to follow, leaving a very different and more supportive service to the one she joined many years ago.  

Her achievements leave a lasting legacy and I thank her again for dedicating her career to serving the Australian community through the public service.  I know that despite her decision to retire, she will contribute to the Australian community for many years to come.

MONDAY, 8 AUGUST 2022