Liz Cosson new secretary of Veterans Affairs, Simon Lewis to retire
Liz Cosson has been appointed secretary of the department of Veterans Affairs, after secretary Simon Lewis announced he would retire from the role.
Veterans Affairs Minister Darren Chester said he would be working with the new secretary on putting the needs of veterans and their families first, as well as focusing on helping younger veterans transition from military to civilian life.
Retired major general Liz Cosson will take over as the secretary of Veterans Affairs.
"In my short time in the role as minister, Ms Cosson has impressed me with her professionalism, dedication and determination to care for our veterans and their families,” he said.
“As chief operating officer she has been instrumental in the reform process currently underway and I’m confident that we can continue to deliver an improved level of service."
The minister also acknowledged the work of Mr Lewis as secretary.
“Mr Lewis has made an outstanding contribution to reforming the department and placing the needs of the veterans at the forefront of everything we do,” Mr Chester said.
“He has enjoyed a long and distinguished career in the public service and I wish him well in his retirement.”
Ms Cosson is a former army officer, and was the first woman to reach the rank of major general in Australia.
More to come.