New Parliamentary Counsel appointed

Premier Gladys Berejiklian today announced leading public sector executive Annette O’Callaghan as the new NSW Parliamentary Counsel.

Ms O’Callaghan replaces Don Colagiuri – known to many as ‘The Don’ – a legend of the public sector who has served the public for a whopping 46 years.

The role of Parliamentary Counsel is vital for democracy because it involves drafting legislation for introduction to Parliament. While often working behind the scenes, the Parliamentary Counsel touches the lives of everyone in NSW.

“Well drafted legislation and advice is integral to a strong Parliament,” Ms Berejiklian said.

Ms O’Callaghan takes the job after 25 years in the Offices of the Parliamentary Counsel in New South Wales, Victorian and Queensland. She starts in June.

“Ms O’Callaghan’s extensive experience in management and legislative drafting make her well placed to lead the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel,” Ms Berejiklian added.

Tim Reardon, Secretary of the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet, added, “Annette is a highly regarded, polished and proven leader of a Parliamentary Counsel’s office – I look forward to her leading our world class NSW drafting office.”

The Premier paid tribute to Mr Colagiuri’s exceptional service and leadership.

“Mr Colagiuri earned universal praise over his long and productive career. He built a statute book unrivalled in its accessibility – a vital legacy for NSW,” Ms Berejiklian added.

He has been drafting legislation since 1972, first in the Chief Secretary’s Department and then from 1974 in the NSW Parliamentary Counsel’s Office - an organisation he has led since 2001.

For more information on the Office of Parliamentary Counsel and its responsibilities in government visit www.pco.nsw.gov.au.