Thursday, 7 April 2022

Announcements

Secretary, Department of Parliamentary Services

The PRESIDENT (10:07): Members, you will be aware that the Secretary of the Department of Parliamentary Services, Mr Peter Lochert—and I am glad to see him in the gallery—will be retiring on Monday. The recruitment process included a selection panel which included the Honourable Tony Smith MP, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ms Julia Griffith, former deputy commissioner of the Victorian Public Sector Commission, Andrew Young and Bridget Noonan, the clerks of our Parliament, to whom I give my thanks and appreciation for their contribution during the recruitment process. I confirm that the Speaker and I have appointed Ms Trish Burrows as the next secretary of the department.

Peter is a passionate person with his endeavours, having Parliament at the heart throughout his tenure. Peter’s tenure saw major refurbishment projects, which sees our Parliament improved for all visitors, members and staff, now and for future generations. This beautiful building belongs to the Victorian people, and it has been enhanced and restored under Peter’s management. He has led the Department of Parliamentary Services through significant change in response to evolving member requirements, community expectations, new legislation, security risks and a global pandemic. On behalf of members, I wish Peter and his wife, Jenny, all the best in retirement.

Members applauded.