Secretaries Board communique: 22 April 2026

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

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, strategic issues and emerging risks.

The Board received an update on geostrategic issues from Ms Jan Adams AO PSM, Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Ms Cath Patterson, Acting Secretary, Department of Defence.

The Board received an economic and budget update from Ms Jenny Wilkinson PSM, Secretary, Department of the Treasury, and Mr Matt Yannopoulos PSM, Secretary, Department of Finance.

National Anti-Corruption Commission

The Board considered the National Anti-Corruption Commission’s report on its investigation into the referrals it received from the Robodebt Royal Commission.

APS reform program

The Board noted the 2025 APS Reform Progress Report.

COO Committee minutes

The Board noted the COO Committee minutes from its 25 February 2026 meeting.

Other business

The Board discussed the importance of departments preparing timely Australian Government responses to parliamentary committee inquiries for Government’s consideration.

Next meetings

The next Secretaries Board meeting is scheduled for 20 May 2026.