41/07

Friday 27 April 2007

Helen Williams AO

The Minister for Communication, Information Technology and the Arts Senator Helen Coonan today thanked Helen Williams AO for her outstanding contribution as Secretary for the Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts.

Ms Williams will move to the Department of Human Services as of Monday May 7 2007. Ms Patricia Scott will replace Ms Williams as Secretary of the Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts.

“As Secretary to the Department since 2002, Helen Williams has shown great dedication and professionalism in her role in this diverse and fast-paced portfolio, as well as to the public service throughout her career,” Senator Coonan said.

“In 1984 she was appointed the first woman Secretary of a Commonwealth Department, in the Department of Education.

“There are few people who are better placed to have seen and experienced the changes to the Public Service over the past twenty years, and as well as holding key, central positions within the sector, she took on the challenging role as Public Service Commissioner from 1998-2002.

“I congratulate Helen on her new appointment - she takes a great deal of experience with her to her upcoming role, which I’m sure will be greatly valued and I wish her all the best for her future.”

Media Contact: Fiona Telford - 02 6277 7480