I thank Mike Taylor for the advice and support he has given me over the past 15 months and for his leadership of my Department through a period of significant change.

For more than nine years Mike Taylor has served the Australian Government, and through it, the Australian community with professionalism and passion.

To his great credit, Mike Taylor embodies the finest traditions of the public service and has faithfully served the Minister and Government of the day.

During my tenure as Minister Mike Taylor has been integral in overseeing the establishment of the Department of Infrastructure, Infrastructure Australia, the Australian Council of Local Government and the Office of Northern Australia.

He has also ensured the smooth rollout of our Nation Building Program and the development of Australia’s first ever long term plan for aviation.

I wish Mike well in his new career and I’m certain he will continue to make an outstanding contribution to our nation.