Kathryn Campbell AO CSC announced as new DFAT Secretary

Ministers Payne and Seselja congratulate Kathryn Campbell AO CSC on her appointment as the Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Ms Campbell has an outstanding record of leadership and public service through senior roles with Government departments, including as Secretary of the Department of Social Services, and as an officer in the Australian Army Reserve.

Ms Campbell and Minister Payne previously worked together when Minister Payne was Minister for Human Services. Minister Seselja also worked with Ms Campbell when she was appointed as Secretary of the Department of Social Services.

Both Ministers look forward to working with Ms Campbell in her new role, as they advance Australia’s interests internationally, and prosecute the Government’s Indo-Pacific agenda at this critical time.

As Secretary, Ms Campbell will lead an organisation with an important role to play in continuing to support Australia’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular through its tireless work assisting Australians overseas. 

Minister Payne and Minister Seselja are also pleased that the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will be led by its second female Secretary.

They have both sincerely thanked Frances Adamson AC for her outstanding record of public service, including as Secretary for the past five years.