APS Commissioner Gordon de Brouwer Announces Early Departure
Australian Public Service Commissioner Gordon de Brouwer has confirmed he will resign from his position, stepping down significantly earlier than expected. Dr de Brouwer, who was appointed to a five-year term, has decided to leave after just over two years in the role.
Official Statement and Departure Date
In a formal statement released on Friday, Dr de Brouwer revealed he has written to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Presiding Officers of Parliament to inform them of his decision. His resignation will take effect on February 13, 2026.
"After almost four years of intense work on further strengthening the public service, I have made the decision with my family to move on and contribute in a different way," Dr de Brouwer stated in his announcement.
Background and Experience
Dr Gordon de Brouwer brings extensive experience to the public sector, with a career spanning more than 35 years in public policy. Prior to his appointment as APS Commissioner, he served as the Secretary for Public Sector Reform, where he played a key role in shaping government administration and efficiency.
His departure creates a significant vacancy in Australia's public service leadership at a time when the federal government continues to implement various policy reforms and administrative changes.
Implications for the Public Service
The early resignation of the APS Commissioner raises questions about the continuity of public service reforms and leadership stability within federal government departments. As the head of the Australian Public Service Commission, Dr de Brouwer was responsible for overseeing the integrity, capability, and leadership of the public service workforce.
The government will now need to begin the process of appointing a successor to ensure minimal disruption to public service operations and ongoing reform initiatives.
