NO.027

Retirement of Edward Evans AC – Secretary to the Treasury

Ted Evans retires today as Secretary to the Treasury, following 43 years in

the public service.

Ted began his working life with what was then the Postmaster General’s

Department (PMG) in Ipswich, Queensland. During the decade that Ted worked

for the PMG, he studied at night, graduating from the University of Queensland

in 1969 with Honours in Economics and joined the Federal Treasury.

Ted has worked under 16 Treasurers, and as Secretary worked for Treasurers

Dawkins, Willis and myself. It is a mark of the man’s absolute integrity,

dedication and commitment that he has enjoyed the unqualified confidence of

all of the Treasurers for whom he has worked.

Ted has been an exemplary public servant. His advice has always been of a very

high standard, demonstrating a detailed understanding of the issues and policy

options available to the Government. And there has never been any question

that Ted Evans is motivated by the highest of ideals –

his firm commitment to the public interest. Ted was recently awarded a Companion

in the Order of Australia in recognition of his extraordinary contribution

to public policy.

Public service is an honourable undertaking, seldom celebrated as it deserves.

I want to take this opportunity today to record my thanks to Ted Evans for

a truly outstanding record of public service. I know that all of his colleagues

will join with me in thanking Ted most sincerely for a long and distinguished

career of service to the Treasury, to the process of government, and to the

people of Australia.

CANBERRA

26 April 2001