CHIEF OFFICER FOR ACT STATE EMERGENCY SERVICES APPOINTED

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Simon Corbell, has today announced the appointment of Tony Graham as the new Chief Officer for the State Emergency Service (SES).

"I am very pleased to announce Mr Graham's appointment today to the role of Chief Officer of the SES, which is a vital role within the ACT Emergency Services Agency," Mr Corbell said.

"Mr Graham has demonstrated strong leadership in the ACT SES during his past service, and was selected from a broad field of candidates who responded to a national recruitment campaign."

Mr Graham has an extensive 20 year history in the SES, participating in both operational and leadership positions.

Prior to choosing emergency services as his career, Mr Graham was a member of the Royal Australian Navy and a public servant.

"The SES is a crucial organisation in our community and provides assistance to hundreds of people every single year following storms, floods and general search and rescue operations," Mr Corbell said.

"Mr Graham has a long standing positive relationship with the SES volunteers across the Territory and will provide the SES with a maturity and clear direction that will ensure all Canberrans receive the best possible assistance in times of need."

Mr Graham has undertaken the role of Deputy Chief Officer before acting in the role of Chief Officer - SES, following the Government announcement to re-instigate Chief Officers for each of the emergency services.

The Government's plan to reinstate Chief Officers to each of the emergency services is almost complete with the recruitment campaign for Chief Officer of the ACT Fire Brigade ongoing.

"Mr Graham's appointment will continue to contribute the enhancement and strengthening of the ACT's emergency service capability," Mr Corbell added.

"I am confident that the many volunteers of the ACT SES will join with me in congratulating Mr Graham on his appointment, and I look forward to working with him to overcome future challenges in the State Emergency Service," he said.

Media Contact:

Patrick Cronan
6205 0401
0432 758 224
patrick.cronan@act.gov.au