Tony Cook will be the next secretary of the Department of Education. Photo: Supplied.
Tony Cook has been promoted from deputy secretary to secretary of the federal Department of Education, replacing outgoing boss Michele Bruniges.
He takes up the role in April.
Mr Cook is highly regarded in the department, currently serving as deputy secretary, higher education, research and international.
The career public servant is also held in high esteem across the Australian Public Service, as well as in the public sectors in state jurisdictions.
He has been director-general of the Queensland Department of Education, and deputy secretary at the Victorian Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.
He is also a registered primary school teacher.
Anthony Albanese announced the appointment on Friday (3 February).
He described Mr Cook as someone with the right experience to head up the Education Department.
“I am pleased to announce that the Governor-General has accepted my recommendation to appoint Mr Tony Cook PSM as the Secretary of the Department of Education,” the Prime Minister said.
“Mr Cook is currently Deputy Secretary, higher education, research and international at the Department of Education.
“Mr Cook brings to his new appointment significant policy experience and strong stakeholder relationships, particularly in the education sector.
“I would like to thank Dr Michele Bruniges AM for her service as Secretary of the Department of Education since April 2016.
“Dr Bruniges has made a significant contribution to education policy at the Commonwealth and state levels over a number of decades and I wish her well for the future.”
Mr Cook was awarded a Public Service Medal in 2014 in recognition of his work on school policy and funding reform. His five-year appointment will commence on 4 April 2023.
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