Simon Draper PSM will step down as Secretary of the NSW Premier’s Department after being appointed to lead the Federal Department of Industry, Science and Resources.
Mr Draper will conclude his NSW role on 4 September 2026 before taking up the federal appointment.
NSW Premier Chris Minns praised Mr Draper’s leadership and advice during a period of significant policy and public-sector reform.
Mr Draper has played a central role in the NSW Government’s housing and economic agenda, including chairing the Housing Delivery Authority and supporting the establishment of the Investment Delivery Authority.
Michael Coutts-Trotter will become Acting Secretary of the Premier’s Department from 5 September and is expected to remain in the position until April 2027.
Mr Coutts-Trotter is currently Secretary of NSW Treasury and has held several senior leadership roles across the NSW public service.
Liz Livingstone will serve as Acting Secretary of NSW Treasury during the transition.
The arrangements provide temporary leadership through to the period following the next NSW election, rather than confirming a permanent replacement for Mr Draper.
Mr Minns said Mr Draper had provided calm and trusted advice throughout the government’s first three years and would bring extensive policy, administrative and commercial experience to his new federal role.