I write to mark the end of an era at the Department of Social Security with the retirement of Secretary, Ray Griggs AO CSC.

The Department has indeed been fortunate to have been led by Ray for the last three years.

Ray brought with him experience of all 46 years of service to our country. For around 40 of those years, Ray’s served with distinction in the Royal Australian Navy, including as Chief of Navy and Vice Chief of the Defence Force.

Ray has provided wise counsel, frank and fearless advice and been a valued confidant. I am grateful that it was Ray who facilitated this Government’s significant task of resetting the National Disability Insurance Scheme. 

It has been clear in all my interactions with Ray, that he is guided by deeply held values based on fairness and compassion – essential as we brought the NDIS back to more sustainable, equitable path.

Helping get the NDIS back on track will be just one of Ray’s legacies in his time as Secretary of DSS, but one that is profound. It means this world-leading scheme will be here to support Australians with disability and their families for generations to come.

I commend Ray’s 4Cs to you as a framework for decision making even after his departure. Curiosity, contestability, collaboration and courage will always ensure the robust and innovative thinking necessary in this important portfolio.

It is with enormous gratitude and respect that I farewell Ray and express my hope that your post-DSS life is as fulfilling as your career in service to the Australian public.  

I also wish new Secretary, Michael Lye, every success as he steps into the role.