Mr Simon Duggan Appointed Secretary of of the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR)

Umesh Dhakal

KNA- Canberra

Mr Simon Duggan has been appointed as the new Secretary of the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR), following confirmation by the Governor-General.

The appointment brings an experienced senior public servant to the employment portfolio. Mr Duggan most recently served as Deputy Secretary of the Energy Group at the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water.

Previously, Mr Duggan held the role of Deputy Secretary at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, where leadership was provided to the Economy and Industry Group. During that time, Australia was represented internationally through his work as G20 and G7 Plus Sherpa.

Earlier in his career, Mr Duggan spent 18 years at the Department of the Treasury, where policy leadership was undertaken across major domestic and international economic reform initiatives.

The appointment will take effect from 16 February 2026 and will run for a five-year term.

Ms Tania Rishniw was also acknowledged for her service as Acting Secretary of the department since December 2025.

Source: Government of Australia -PM/ Media