Ken Henry has served our country and its people with unparalleled distinction, not just for the past three years but under governments of both political persuasions over the last three decades.
I congratulate Dr Henry on a public service career that has seen him play a crucial role in the economic reforms that have helped secure Australia's 20 years of uninterrupted growth.
On a personal level I thank him for his advice and integrity – and especially for his composure and professionalism during the biggest synchronized downturn in the global economy in living memory.
His performance during the global financial crisis and his central role in tax reform, in particular, have made him arguably the finest Australian public servant since HC "Nugget" Coombs.
I consider myself very fortunate to have been Treasurer during his tenure as Secretary, which began in 2001, and I'm sure my predecessor Peter Costello would feel the same way.
I know he has been a very effective and respected leader of the Treasury officials who do so much to ensure our economy is managed responsibly and effectively, always with an eye to the future.
From March 2011 his role will be filled by Dr Martin Parkinson, a tremendously capable public servant in his own right and someone I am certain will make a successful Treasury Secretary.
I work closely with Dr Parkinson in his current role as Secretary of the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, and have always been impressed by his intellect and leadership.
I have long described the Treasury as the policy powerhouse of the federal bureaucracy and his appointment only enhances that reputation further.
I look forward to working with Ken for the remainder of his tenure, and with Martin for the years that follow, to ensure the Australian economy remains the envy of the world.
The Treasury and I have a lot of work to do to ensure we fully maximise our opportunities in the Asian Century, and build the stronger, broader economy all Australians deserve.