I am pleased to announce the Governor-General has accepted my recommendation to appoint Mr Michael Lye as Secretary of the Department of Social Services.

Mr Lye has had an extensive career in the Australian Public Service and has a proven track record of implementing complex reforms, particularly in the area of social policy.

He has served as Deputy Secretary, Ageing and Aged Care, at the Department of Health and Aged Care since 2019, and has previously held senior positions at the Department of Social Services from 2013 to 2019.

Mr Lye’s five year appointment will commence on 11 December 2024. His appointment as Secretary of the Department of Social Services follows a publicly advertised, merit-based selection process.

The current Secretary of the Department of Social Services, Mr Ray Griggs AO CSC, will retire on 10 December 2024, having served as Secretary since 2021.

Mr Griggs has had a long, decorated career in the public sector and Australian Defence Force, as Chief of Navy, Vice Chief of the Defence Force and the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of the National Indigenous Australians Agency.

On behalf of the Australian Government, I thank Mr Griggs for his dedication, leadership and service to the Australian community.