National
Fellows
YOUR IPAA 
List of 2024
National Fellows
John Bradley PSM
IPAA VIC
John is the Secretary of the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action in the Victorian Government.
He was previously CEO of Energy Networks Australia representing gas distribution and electricity transmission and distribution businesses providing services to almost every Australian energy customer. He has also served as CEO of 3 Queensland Government agencies working with a significant workforce and budget responsibilities.
John holds an MBA from QUT and BA from the University of Queensland. He is a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has served as a Director on the Boards of Infrastructure Victoria, Greening Australia Ltd, the Australian Gas Industry Trust, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, the Australian and New Zealand School of Government, the Cape York Institute for Policy and Leadership, Families Responsibility Commission and on the University of Queensland Senate.
Dr Linda Colley
IPAA QLD
Linda most recently served as Queensland’s first Special Commissioner, Equity and Diversity. She focussed on gender-based disparities and supporting the Queensland Government’s commitment to providing equal access to rewarding careers in safe and supportive workplaces for women. Her Office supported agencies to undertake their first equity and diversity audit, using workforce data to identify inequities and develop plans to address them.
She is a former Professor at Central Queensland University, a former Chair of the Queensland Work Health and Safety Board and has worked in the public, tertiary, and finance sectors. Linda is an accomplished researcher with skills in policy and policy analysis and has completed extensive research across all Australian jurisdictions in gender, public sector management, and employment policy and practice.
In 2022 she received the Sam Richardson Award for her co-authored article titled “Best person or best mix? How public sector managers understand the merit principle?”.
Elizabeth (Liz) MacLeod
IPAA WA
Liz has served in senior roles in Western Australia’s Department of Health for 15 years, most recently as Chief Executive of the East Metropolitan Health Service.
In this time, she led several key initiatives which have transformed healthcare in WA and delivered positive outcomes to the WA community and contributed to healthcare nationwide. These include the delivery of a successful virtual healthcare program, leading a Health Campus procurement through a public-private partnership, paving the way for future PPPs, and overseeing the commissioning of Fiona Stanley Hospital, introducing WA’s first digital medical record.
Liz played a pivotal role in WA’s response to COVID-19, where she led the coordination and oversight of response activities and received a Public Service Medal for management of health response during the pandemic.
She is a powerful advocate for patient-centred care and has a passion for transforming healthcare, which is clearly evident throughout her career.
Deidre Mulkerin
IPAA QLD
Deidre has dedicated her public service career of more than 35 years to improving the lives of children, young people and families, and leading change and reform. She has a passion for listening to, supporting and advocating for the most vulnerable in our community.
From starting her career as a frontline child safety officer to leading a department as Director- General, her career has spanned a range of human services roles in QLD and NSW in child protection, housing, domestic and family violence and disability services. She has held policy, operation and program delivery roles, and has extensive reform implementation and program management experience.
Considered an expert in the field of child protection, Ms Mulkerin is highly regarded by stakeholders, the community sector and her government peers across the country. She is recognised as an advocate for system improvement and change. A role model and popular leader, she is well known for her expertise and generosity in developing and mentoring leaders from across the human services sector.
Peter Woolcott AO
IPAA ACT
Peter served as the Australian Public Service Commissioner from 2018 until his retirement in 2023. He stewarded the APS through the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, commenced the process of implementing the Thodey Review and under his leadership, the APS Academy was established.
Previously, Peter served as former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s chief of staff. He was also Australia’s High Commissioner to New Zealand (2016-2017), Ambassador for the Environment (2014-16) and lead negotiator for Australia at the Paris Climate Agreement, Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva and Ambassador for Disarmament (2010-2014), Ambassador for People Smuggling Issues (2009), and Ambassador to Italy (2004-2007). Peter was also President of the UN Final Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty (2014).
Peter was appointed an Officer in the Order of Australia in 2017 for his distinguished service to public administration in the field of international relations.
Rosemary Huxtable AO PSM
IPAA ACT
Rosemary was Secretary of the Department of Finance (2016-2022), where she was closely involved in the preparation of the Australian Government Budget, oversaw the financial framework of Australian Government agencies, provided shareholder oversight of government business enterprises and advice on cost-effective whole of government programs.
Rosemary served nearly ten years in the Department of Finance and has held senior roles in the Department of Health and Aged Care, including as Deputy Secretary. In her prior role as chair of the Secretaries APS Reform Committee she led reforms to improve transparency and accountability of Commonwealth public sector agencies.
She currently provides strategic and policy advice to government and government-related entities, including in the areas of health policy, defence and national security.
Rosemary received an Order of Australia in 2023 for distinguished service to public administration through leadership roles in the areas of health and finance, and a Public Service Medal in 2005 for Medicare reform.
Susan Pearce AM
IPAA NSW
Susan is the Secretary of NSW Health, appointed in March 2022. She is responsible for the management of the NSW health system to provide world-class, patient-centred care.
Previously, Susan was Deputy Secretary, Patient Experience and System Performance Division. She also served as the Controller of the State Health Emergency Operations Centre (SHEOC), directing and overseeing NSW Health’s operational response to the pandemic. From February 2021, Susan led the NSW Health vaccine rollout program, establishing over 40 vaccination clinics and more than 100 mobile, outreach and pop-up locations across the state.
Susan began her career as a registered nurse and has continually worked to serve the communities of NSW. She has qualifications in Law and was admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW as a solicitor in September 2019.
Susan was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in April 2023.
List of 2023
National Fellows
Dr Damian West PSM (posthumously awarded)
IPAA ACT
In his last role as head of the Office of Industrial Relations and Workforce Strategy, Damian played a crucial role in shaping the culture and practices of the Australia Capital Territory Public Service (ACTPS).
Damian’s exceptional leadership in navigating challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and commitment to progressive enterprise bargaining and expertise in complex industrial, Work Health and Safety (WHS), and employment matters earned him respect from Ministers, Directors-General, and colleagues. His contribution as Deputy Victorian Public Service Commissioner was also exemplary during a time of significant workplace modernisation.
His contribution to IPAA as National Secretary and member of the IPAA ACT Council further highlights his dedication to public service.
Damian West embodied what it means to be a dedicated public servant.
Katherine Jones PSM
IPAA ACT
Katherine Jones PSM is Secretary of the Attorney-General’s Department. Katherine commenced in this role in August 2021. Prior to her appointment as Secretary, Katherine was the Associate Secretary of the Department of Defence. She was appointed to that position in June 2020, where her portfolio included oversight of the Chief Information Officer, Chief Finance Officer, Deputy Secretary of Defence People and Deputy Secretary of Estate and Infrastructure. In addition, Katherine was responsible for Defence enterprise planning, performance and risk management functions, and the integration of all corporate enabling services which included the delivery of the Defence Transformation Strategy and the Defence Data Strategy.
In 2017, Katherine received a Public Service Medal for her outstanding contribution in the field of national security.
David Hazlehurst
IPAA ACT
David Hazelhurst is the CEO, Services Australia and Deputy President of IPAA ACT, having joined the board in May 2021.
He is a member of the IPAA ACT Finance Risk and Audit Committee and has served on the IPAA ACT Council since September 2019.
David previously led the team supporting the Review of the National Disability Insurance Scheme within the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Prior to joining the department, David led the secretariat for the myGov User Audit to design the future of myGov as a gateway for government services.
He has held Deputy Secretary positions in the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, Austrade and the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science.
David’s experience spans policy development, research and analysis, and service delivery.
Tracey Slatter
IPAA VIC
Tracey has been a valued IPAA Victoria supporter and member for many years and is well known among her peers for her continuous and committed contribution to IPAA Victoria as well as her valuable and unique input towards developing Victoria’s public purpose sector to be the best it can be.
Tracey has extensive executive leadership in the public sector including in her current role as Chief Executive Officer of the Transport Accident Commission. Tracey has diverse experience across the public purpose sector including Managing Director, Barwon Water; CEO of City of Port Phillip; CEO of Colac Otway Shire and senior roles in the Victorian Public Service.
With this breadth of experience, Tracey was awarded IPAA Victoria Fellowship in 2013, has been an elected member of the IPAA Victoria Board since 2019 and was elected IPAA Victoria Deputy President in 2022.
Dr Garry Hunt PSM
IPAA WA
Dr Garry Hunt PSM has made outstanding contributions to public administration through his work in the local government sector in Western Australia. As a local government leader, Garry has earned recognition for his innovation, vision, business acumen and his collaborative and engaging leadership. Dr Hunt has played a significant role in influencing the development of major policy initiatives and improving service delivery to the community, and epitomises the true spirit of leadership and commitment with his devotion to local government and the communities and people they represent.
Kathrina LO
IPAA NSW
Kathrina was appointed NSW Public Service Commissioner in April 2020, after previously working as a Deputy Secretary for the Department of Communities and Justice.
Kathrina has extensive public sector experience with both state and federal governments. She has held senior executive roles in the NSW Department of Justice, NSW Audit Office and NSW Information and Privacy Commission. Kathrina is on the Board of the Australia and New Zealand School of Government and is a member of Chief Executive Women.
Kathrina has qualifications in law and economics. She is passionate about working in the public interest, and is a champion for diversity and inclusion.
Shaun Smith
IPAA NSW
Shaun is a former Deputy Secretary, Corporate Service Partners, Department of Industry. Prior to joining the Department of Industry, Shaun held roles as Director, Executive Director and Managing Director for the Department of Premier and Cabinet and the Department of Finance, Services and Innovation (DFSI). At DFSI, Shaun was responsible for setting up the Strategic Programs and Performance Management Office, reporting to the Secretary.
Prior to joining NSW State Government, Shaun held large commercial roles within property, engineering & construction.
Madeleine Culbert
IPAA NSW
As a former Councillor and CEO, Madeleine Culbert led IPAA NSW from being a stable, well-performing business to one with new relevance and a large impact. She steered IPAA NSW through the turbulent times of the pandemic and the constantly changing public sector environment, reinventing the organisation for new growth, member value and strong financial security. Her vision, energy, focus and skilful stakeholder engagement and the building of trusting relationships has helped to build a very bright and sustainable future for an organisation that is so important in supporting those who serve the people of NSW
List of 2022
National Fellows
Dr Steven Kennedy PSM
IPAA ACT
Dr Steven Kennedy has made an exemplary contribution to Australia and its public administration through his significant policy leadership and advice to Government during times of crisis during both the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Global Financial Crisis.
His work to develop and deliver effective policy advice to Executive Government in a wide range of areas including climate change, infrastructure, transport, and macro and microeconomic policy has been outstanding.
Dr Kennedy’s personal values and outstanding efforts to build capability and leadership throughout Australian public administration both in his work and as President of IPAA ACT, is also acknowledged through this Fellowship.
Kevin Riley
IPAA ACT
Kevin Riley has made significant contributions to public administration through his work as a financial and governance trainer who has developed programs over decades to build the capability of public servants across a number of jurisdictions.
As a long term member of IPAA and the IPAA National Council Treasurer for more than 10 years, Kevin has also ensured the ongoing support of quality practice of public administration through effective stewardship of the national organisation supporting public servants.
Elizabeth Mildwater
IPAA NSW
Elizabeth Mildwater has worked in some of the most important ‘back of house’ areas of public sector service delivery, including the development of Sydney’s contactless Opal Card for public transport services. Her work has also made a major economic and social contribution to NSW, through the better integration of transport services across the wider Sydney areas.
More recently her responsibilities have broadened beyond Sydney into strategic planning for the area that covers the Illawarra/Shoalhaven/Wollongong area in the south and Greater Newcastle in the north. This work involves developing an overall whole-of-government strategic plan for the region and a plan for each of the six cities it contains and the more than 5 million people who live within this region.
Through her involvement in our governance structures and at our events, Ms Mildwater has also made a major contribution to the stability and growth of IPAA NSW.
William Murphy PSM
IPAA NSW
William Murphy has made a major contribution to the public sector’s use of data and analytics; areas that have been repeatedly identified as essential capabilities for all public sector leaders.
His work was of particular importance during the COVID-19 pandemic where his leadership, knowledge and expertise helped shape the NSW Government’s Delta-variant communication strategy, firstly in South-Western Sydney, and then across the state.
During his seventeen-year career with the NSW government, William Murphy has brought a strategic focus to his work, innovating to improve outcomes for the sector and the people of NSW.
His work has created significant improvements across the NSW public sector and through his involvement with IPAA NSW, he has shown a deep personal commitment to ensuring that the people working in our sector continue to grow and upskill.
Elaine Carbines AM
IPAA VIC
Elaine Carbines has had a diverse public sector career, serving in a number of different leadership roles including school teacher, elected representative, community campaigner and public servant. Elaine has used her experience as an elected representative to advocate for improved infrastructure, services and facilities in the Geelong region and its smaller towns.
Her honed stakeholder relationship skills and a commitment to delivering community outcomes saw her appointed to the Chief Executive Officer at the not-for-profit G21 Geelong Regional Alliance in 2010. In 2020, Elaine was awarded a Member of the Order Australia for her significant contribution to the environment and conservation.
Elaine champions the values of IPAA Victoria in her work and beyond. Connecting, collaborating and being agile are fundamental to her leadership style. Her commitment to continuous improvement and innovation are critical to many successes. Elaine has upheld the highest standards of integrity and ethical behaviour throughout her long and diverse career. Above all, she has worked tirelessly to promote inclusivity and diversity by breaking down social barriers and creating opportunities for all at the local level.
Rachel Hunter PSM
IPAA QLD
Rachel Hunter, is a distinguished and accomplished public purpose leader, having led various public sector portfolios over an extensive career where she has driven significant public sector development and reform. She brings an outcomes-focused and values-led leadership style.
Ms Hunter is the first female Director-General of the Department of the Premier and Cabinet in Queensland. She is a member of the Trade and Investment Queensland Board, Building Queensland Board and the National First Secretaries Group. She also serves as the Deputy Chancellor, Griffith University and has chaired the Board of Jobs Queensland providing industry and evidence-based advice on skills needs and workforce planning, and has served as the Chair of Children’s Health Queensland.
In 2020, Ms Hunter was awarded a Public Service Medal for outstanding public service to the community of Queensland.
Gail McGowan PSM
IPAA WA
Gail McGowan has more than 20 years’ experience in senior positions across State Government. She is a leader who is passionate about creating a values and culture driven workplace and championing inclusion and diversity.
Gail has extensive experience and leadership in initiatives including major public sector reform and the review and implementation of legislation across multiple portfolios including Planning, Lands, Heritage and Aboriginal Heritage. Gail has recently played a key role in WA’s planning reform agenda to support the State’s economic recovery from COVID-19. Gail’s commitment to the public sector is recognised by her Public Service Medal in 2019.
Gail is a strong advocate and supporter of IPAA WA. She has spoken at various IPAA WA events, mentored IPAA WA members, and serves on the IPAA WA Achievements Awards judging panel. In recognition of her significant achievements to the public sector and contributions to IPAA WA, Gail was awarded an IPAA WA Fellowship in 2022.
Ken Davies PSM
IPAA NT
For many years Ken Davies has served the Northern Territory in remote communities and in the capital and every in-between. In all that he does Ken is a passionate ‘steward of the sector’, advocating that public service is a ‘noble cause’. He celebrates our successes. He understands the strategic importance of the Northern Territory to Australia’s long-term success. He believes in the Territory. He knows that debate on public service issues leads to better outcomes.
Ken doesn’t shy away from the conversations that are needed but does so with one simple objective in mind: how can we grow greater public value for our communities? How can we be the best? He collaborates with his colleagues and develops his teams to grow public value across the NT.
Over forty years Ken has served the Northern Territory and helped shape the NTPS as a place where public servants thrive and deliver. Ken Davies PSM is the very model of a modern public servant.
David Brown
IPAA SA
As Chief Executive of the Department for Correctional Services (DCS), South Australia, and member of the Criminal Justice Reform Council, David is driving wide-ranging reform across the system to increase public confidence through improving service delivery and ensuring service is just and fair. He has embedded a culture of learning and improvement to change established thinking and practices through major initiatives including Shaping Corrections as a driver of innovation for DCS through collaboration and improvement.
As Co-Chair, Aboriginal Affairs Executive Committee, David is committed to improving outcomes for indigenous people across the South Australian Criminal Justice System and led the delivery of the DCS Gender Equality and Respect (GET) Action Plan and the DCS Women’s Offender Framework and Action Plan which provided targeted cultural support for Indigenous women and linked to Justice Sector Reform, Justice Reinvestment and large-scale reform supporting women’s safety and equality.
David continues to deliver strong evidence-based policy initiatives across key strategic directions to create a safer and fairer society for all South Australians.
Nerida Saunders PSM
IPAA SA
Nerida Saunders is a proud Murri Woman from the Kamilaroi Nation, and Executive Director of Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation, Attorney-General’s Department, South Australian Government. Her career spans areas of social justice and child protection, having been the first Aboriginal Executive Director of Children, Youth and Family Services, South Australia.
Nerida has a strong focus on improving the lives of indigenous people. She has been Co-Chair of the Aboriginal Affairs Executive Committee (AAEC) since 2020 and worked on developing Reconciliation Action Plans (RAP). As a member of the Premier’s Council for Women, she brings a strong voice for indigenous women, sharing her expertise and insight to ensure women’s interests and needs of women are at the forefront of the South Australian Government’s policies and strategies.
In 2016 Nerida was awarded the Public Service Medal for outstanding public service in the provision of leadership and advocacy in the area of Aboriginal affairs and reconciliation. Her commitment to social justice, women’s rights and equality and strong advocacy for indigenous rights and reconciliation have positioned her as a passionate role model for the next generation of Aboriginal Leaders in the public sector.
List of 2021
National Fellows
Robert Alder
IPAA New South Wales
Ruth Ambler
IPAA South Australia
Sue Ash AO
IPAA Western Australia
Emma Hogan
IPAA New South Wales
Michael Manthorpe PSM
IPAA ACT
Caroline Mealor
IPAA South Australia
Neil Scales OBE
IPAA Queensland
Dr Vivienne Thom AM
IPAA ACT
List of 2020
National Fellows
Chris Dawson APM
IPAA Western Australia
Professor Mark Evans
IPAA ACT
Christine Feldmanis
IPAA New South Wales
Adam Fennessy PSM
IPAA Victoria
Dr Jenny Gray PSM
IPAA Victoria
Elizabeth Kelly PSM
IPAA ACT
Rick Persse
IPAA South Australia
Robert Setter
IPAA Queensland
Mark Webb
IPAA New South Wales
List of 2019
National Fellows
Frances Adamson
IPAA ACT
Julie Crisp
IPAA Northern Territory
John Hubby
IPAA New South Wales
Sue McCarrey
IPAA Western Australia
James Purtill
IPAA Queensland
Liz Quinn
IPAA ACT
Dr Gillian Sparkes
IPAA Victoria
Janet Schorer PSM
IPAA New South Wales
Cathy Taylor
IPAA South Australia
Dean Yates
IPAA Victoria
List of 2018
National Fellows
Dr Teresa Anderson AM
IPAA New South Wales
Cheryl Batagol PSM
IPAA Victoria
Glenn King
IPAA New South Wales
Alison Larkins
IPAA ACT
Nina Lyhne
IPAA Western Australia
David Martine PSM
IPAA Victoria
Bronwen Overton-Clarke PSM
IPAA ACT
David Reynolds
IPAA South Australia
Brendan Sargeant
IPAA ACT
Dave Stewart
IPAA Queensland