Valedictory: Glyn Davis AC, Secretary of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet

IPAA Valedictory: Glyn Davis AC with Secretaries, heads of agencies and IPAA ACT board, council and sponsors. Also pictured: Professor Ian Chubb AC FAA, former Chief Scientist of Australia, and Andrew Metcalfe AO FIPAA, IPAA National President.

On 10 July 2025, the Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA) ACT hosted a valedictory address at the National Press Club for Emeritus Professor Glyn Davis AC, outgoing Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. The event marked the conclusion of Professor Davis’s distinguished tenure in public service, higher education, and philanthropy, and offered a rare glimpse into the inner workings of government from one of its most thoughtful leaders.

Professor Davis reflected on his journey from a young research assistant in Canberra to leading PM&C, weaving personal anecdotes with deep insights into the machinery of government. He spoke of the enduring relevance of the Australian policy cycle, acknowledging its imperfections while affirming its value as a guiding framework for decision-making. He described how routines – those daily, often invisible processes – shape the work of public servants and provide structure, legitimacy, and continuity in governance.

He emphasised stewardship as a core public service value, highlighting the importance of preserving expertise and sustaining Cabinet routines. Professor Davis warned of the risks when routines fail, citing Robodebt as a case where ethical foundations were compromised. He called for vigilance in maintaining integrity and transparency in public administration.

Drawing on international benchmarks, Professor Davis noted Australia’s high ranking in public service effectiveness, attributing this to strong decision routines, evidence-based policy, and a culture of service. He praised the dedication of public servants and the resilience of democratic institutions, leaving the audience with a sense of optimism and purpose.

The speech was rich with humour and humility, including a story of a former student who, upon entering politics, marvelled that “it all turned out to be true!” – a nod to the enduring relevance of public administration theory. Professor Davis closed by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve, and confidence in the future of Australian democracy and public service.

Read Professor Davis’ full speech.

Video – a video of the event is below or can be viewed on the IPAA ACT Vimeo channel.

Photos – a selection of photos are available below (Photo credit: Mode Imagery)