The Secretary of the Department of Health, Brendan Murphy, (pictured) will step down effective on 06 Jul (PD breaking news).
Murphy has led our healthcare system through the most turbulent time in recent history, said PSA National President Dr Fei Sim, thanking him for his leadership and support of the profession.
"During his tenure as Secretary of the Department of Health, he not only navigated a global pandemic, but also led reforms in aged care, primary care and [the] healthcare workforce."
Under Murphy's leadership, the Federal Government made the largest investment in pharmacy outside of the Community Pharmacy Agreement, announcing $345.7m to embed pharmacists in Residential Aged Care Facilities to improve medicine safety for our oldest Australians, Sim said.
Guild National President Trent Twomey said, "Murphy also faced the dynamic of the tyranny of distance which presented supply chain issues in sourcing much-needed COVID-19 vaccinations, rapid antigen tests and other medicines and supplies needed to help combat the pandemic.
"He was unwavering in his commitment to protect communities as best he could."
Health Minister Mark Butler said Murphy led the Department during its biggest public health response in over 100 years.
"With Murphy's leadership the Department has responded to a renewed focus on Commonwealth-State health relations, including advising National Cabinet."
Merit-based recruitment for the next Secretary has started.
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