I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Peter Varghese as the next Director General of the Office of National Assessments (ONA).
ONA is responsible for advising the Government on international political, strategic and economic developments affecting Australia';s national interests. ONA also advises the Government on the adequacy and coordination of Australia';s foreign intelligence activities and maintains close consultation with the intelligence agencies of other countries.
Mr Varghese brings to the position extensive experience in foreign and strategic policy and in international diplomacy.
Prior to his current position as my Senior Adviser (International), Mr Varghese was Deputy Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. His diplomatic experience includes Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia, Minister (Political) in Japan and postings to Washington and Vienna.
In his twenty four year career with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr Varghese has held several senior policy positions. He headed the secretariat which was responsible for drafting the first ever White Paper on foreign and trade policy in 1997 and has also headed the International Security and Public Affairs divisions in DFAT. From 1998-99 Mr Varghese was seconded to head the International Division of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Mr Varghese also brings to the position extensive management experience. He has served as Assistant Secretary in charge of both personnel and corporate affairs in DFAT and was closely involved in the restructuring of DFAT';s public affairs functions in 1996.
Mr Varghese will take up his appointment on 12 January 2004.