Appointment of Comcare Chief Executive Officer

The Government has today announced the appointment of Ms Jennifer Taylor as the next Chief Executive Officer of Comcare at the expiry of the current CEO’s term on 23 August.

Comcare is a statutory authority established under the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 and its functions include ensuring an early and safe return to work, access to compensation for injured workers, and regulating work health and safety under the Commonwealth’s Work Health and Safety Act 2011. The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Comcare, including its governance responsibilities and reporting requirements.

Ms Taylor is currently a Deputy Secretary in the Department of Employment and has had many years of service in the Commonwealth and State public services.

“Ms Taylor is a very experienced public servant and I am confident will do an outstanding job as the CEO of Comcare,” Minister for Employment Senator Eric Abetz said today.

“Comcare is facing many challenges in coming years including improving return to work outcomes and work health and safety in the Commonwealth. Ms Taylor’s varied experience in the Australian Public Service will be of great benefit to the agency and assist it in meeting those challenges.”

“I also congratulate the outgoing CEO, Paul O’Connor, on his 5 years as Chief Executive. I recognise Mr O’Connor’s strong contribution to the agency and to the Australian Public Service, in particular his focus on return to work outcomes and focusing on workers’ ability to work rather than their inability. I wish Paul well in his new role with the Victorian Government,” Minister Abetz concluded.

The Secretary of the Department of Employment will appoint a new Deputy Secretary in due course.