Secretaries Board communique: 14 August 2024

The Secretaries Board met today at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet to discuss the following matters.

Strategic Outlook

The Board discussed government priorities, emerging risks and strategic issues.

The Board received an update on geostrategic issues from Mr Greg Moriarty AO, Secretary of the Department of Defence.

The Board received an economic and budget update from Ms Jenny Wilkinson PSM, Secretary of the Department of Finance, and Dr Steven Kennedy PSM, Secretary of the Treasury.

​​Australian Bravery Decorations​

On 14 August 2024, the Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, announced 41 Australian Bravery Decorations in recognition of the courageous acts of 46 people.

'Australian Bravery Decorations honour those Australians who put themselves in danger to protect the lives or property of others. Recipients come from different parts of our country and diverse backgrounds. They are connected by their selfless, courageous, resilient and determined response in extraordinary circumstances,' the Governor-General said.

Research Partnership Grant to build the evidence base for gender equality

As part of Working for Women: A Strategy for Gender Equality, the Australian Government is offering a Research Partnership Grant to build the evidence base on what works to achieve gender equality, especially in relation to driving women’s economic equality. The grant provides up to $5 million from March 2025 to June 2030 to develop the evidence to drive change and target effort to create real and meaningful change for women and gender equality, in line with Working for Women.

COVID-19 Response Inquiry roundtable summary - experience of First Nations people

Date: Thursday 25 June and Friday 5 July 2024

Hosts: Ms Robyn Kruk AO, Panel Chair and Professor Catherine Bennett, Commonwealth Government COVID-19 Response Inquiry

Participants: Theses roundtables brought together key stakeholders from a range of First Nations organisations across Australia to discuss the experiences of First Nations people during the pandemic.

COVID-19 Response Inquiry roundtable summary - science communication and the role(s) of experts

Date: Friday 12 July 2024

Hosts: Professor Catherine Bennett, Panel Member and Ms Robyn Kruk AO, Panel Chair, Commonwealth Government COVID-19 Response Inquiry

Participants: This roundtable brought together communication experts, including some directly involved in communicating complex science and risk messages to the public during the pandemic to discuss their experiences and suggestions.

COVID-19 Response Inquiry roundtable summary – Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Date: Thursday 4 July 2024

Hosts: Ms Robyn Kruk AO, Panel Chair, Commonwealth Government COVID-19 Response Inquiry

Participants: This roundtable brought together a range of members from the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry to discuss the experiences of their industries during the pandemic.

COVID-19 Response Inquiry roundtable summary – schools, children and young people

Date: Tuesday 9 July 2024

Hosts: Dr Angela Jackson and Professor Catherine Bennett, Commonwealth Government COVID-19 Response Inquiry Panel

Participants: This roundtable brought together a range of participants from peak bodies, advocacy groups and academia related to the education and health of children and young people.

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