ANU graduate appointed top public servant

An ANU graduate has become Australia’s top public servant and key adviser to Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

Michael Thawley AO has been appointed to the powerful position as Secretary of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet for a five-year term.

Mr Thawley lived at Burton and Garran Hall during his time as a student at the ANU, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in 1972.

Mr Thawley has been a senior public servant and diplomat, and served as Australia’s Ambassador to the United States between 2000 and 2005, during which time Australia successfully concluded the Australia-US Free Trade Agreement.

During his time in Washington, Mr Thawley regularly attended ANU alumni events in the United States.

The ANU congratulates Mr Thawley on his appointment.