Secretary Valedictory – Georgina Harrisson
Hear Georgina’s reflections on the sector at this exclusive event 

About this event

IPAA NSW occupies a privileged position working with leaders across the NSW public sector. Our Secretary Valedictory series allows departing Secretaries to provide their observations and comments in a public address.

Georgina Harrisson’s career in public service spans 22 years. Throughout that time, Georgina has held on to her passion and optimism for the power of public service to change people’s lives for the better. Her work has equalled her passion with a long list of reforms that speak to the art of the possible. In her former role as the Secretary of the Department of Education, Georgina led through the most challenging times education in our state has faced with extended lockdowns due to COVID, devasting floods and long term workforce challenges.

In her IPAA Secretary Valedictory address, Georgina will share her experiences and insights in areas of key interest to current and aspiring public sector leaders. Her address will range from reflecting on career milestones, to the challenges and opportunities facing the public sector.

Why you should attend

The Secretary Valedictory provides you with an excellent opportunity to hear from a distinguished leader in the public sector about current issues facing the state. Strengthen your understanding of the unique responsibilities of the public sector by listening to Georgina share her insider knowledge from 21 years working in the public sector. At least 25% of this event is also allocated to questions from the floor, meaning that you will have the opportunity to play an active part in this discussion.

Sponsorship Acknowledgement 

This event is presented with the support of  HWE Ebsworth Lawyers

Speaker

Georgina Harrison
Former Secretary of NSW Department of Education

With experience in public policy across three jurisdictions, Georgina has held senior management positions in various organizations, including the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet, Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, and the Office of the NSW Premier in Australia. Additionally, she has served in the Department of Children Schools and Families, Department of Communities and Local Government, Cabinet Office, and Home Office in the UK. Georgina is passionate about transforming policy into action and impact for the community. Prior to her appointment at the Department of Education, she served as Deputy Secretary, Corporate Services, and Deputy Secretary, Strategic Reform and Policy at the NSW Department of Family and Community Services.

Facilitator

Scott Alden
Partner, HWL Ebsworth Lawyers

With over 20 years’ experience, Scott specialises as a legal advisor on significant projects and procurements for primarily government, but also private sector, clients. 
Scott’s role of lead legal advisor to significant projects often incorporates legal and procurement expertise on the same transaction, as well as strategic probity advice.

In recognition of his position as a leading government lawyer, Scott was one of the first NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists in Government and Administrative Law (with a focus on government commercial and procurement transactions), and has been appointed by the Law Society of NSW as the Head Assessor for that Specialist Accreditation this year. Scott also writes and lectures two procurement courses for the Masters Programs at both the College of Law and the University of Melbourne. 

Scott also has a special interest in contract law, particularly for major projects, and is a member of the Australian Advisory Board for World Commerce and Contracting Association (previously the International Association of Contract and Commercial Management). He is experienced in drafting and implementing key project documents including market sounding/engagement documents, industry briefings, RFTs, tender evaluation plans, tender evaluation reports, commercial contracts and agreements and legal advices and resolutions to support decisions.

How to register

If you are a NSW public sector employee, click here to become an Affiliate member free of charge.