Secretary Brendan Murphy’s Department of Health had yet another big year in 2022. Not only were COVID-19 restrictions lifted, the machinery of government changes post-election saw “aged care” added to its portfolio.
While the pandemic has defined Murphy’s career, having been Australia’s chief medical officer prior to becoming Health secretary in 2020, he says he is prepared for the many challenges likely to come his way.
In this instalment of The Mandarin‘s Secretary’s Sticky Notes series, in which we ask departmental leaders five questions about their role and what they expect to face in 2023, Murphy says the expanded agenda brings with it opportunities while acknowledging the amount of work ahead.
What’s at the top of your department’s agenda for 2023?
The Department of Health and Aged Care continues to balance a lot of priorities, the health of all Australians is a very broad field. Particular mention should go to the coming work program to deliver on strengthening Medicare, future-proofing the primary care system and continuing to reform aged care.
What do you think will be the biggest challenge for your department in 2023?
Aside from the sheer scope of work to deliver in health and aged care, which is a perennial challenge, I feel the work to address short and long-term workforce issues across the health and aged care sectors is our most challenging and important task.
What is your biggest leadership challenge?
The past year was one of considerable change for the department with the evolving pandemic footing, a change of government and the different agenda that brings. I expect guiding the department beyond this period of change to make great inroads and delivering on the Government’s agenda will present both challenges and enormous opportunity.
What was your 2022 highlight?
There were countless great achievements in 2022 and it’s hard to single out just one. From supporting national health emergencies – COVID, JEV, MPX – to designing and delivering three emergency flood response packages, providing universal access to self-collection for cervical cancer screening, assisting in the delivery of major sporting events like the Men’s T20 cricket, UCI Cycling World Championships and the Virtus Global Games, and actioning almost 40 of the recommendations of the aged care royal commission to improve the system for millions of older Australians.
A highlight for the whole leadership team is the enormous breadth and depth of experience and expertise and the commitment to excellence shown by the Department of Health and Aged Care staff. This has been a hallmark during my tenure, and I know it will remain the case as we head into 2023.
What is your motto for the public service in 2023?
The opportunities are all ahead of us.
Next Monday in Secretary’s Sticky Notes: Katherine Jones from the Attorney-General’s Department.
:
Outgoing DVA secretary Liz Cosson on her hopes and challenges in 2023
Any feedback or news tips? Here’s where to contact the relevant team.