Qld government appoints new Under Treasurer

On Friday (8 September), the Queensland government announced senior public servant Mr Carey had been appointed as the state’s next Under Treasurer.

Currently the associate director-general in the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, the government said Mr Carey would “play a pivotal part in overseeing Queensland’s financial management and economic stewardship”.

Mr Carey has extensive experience in the state’s public sector having previously been chief executive of Trade and Investment Queensland, deputy under treasurer in the Queensland Treasury from 2020–21, and formerly deputy director-general in the Department of State Development Tourism and Innovation.

Queensland’s acting Premier Steven Miles said Mr Carey brought with him expertise that came from his time leading major divisions across the Queensland government’s agencies, with responsibilities that included program reforms to strengthen the state’s economic development and social responsibility.

Mr Miles stated: “Mr Carey has experience that will position him to successfully deliver Queensland Treasury’s priorities, specifically his personal commitment to the mission and proven record of delivery in line and central agencies and in areas directly relevant to the role.

“Mr Carey is an exceptional performer, who is compassionate and inspires trust and commitment from those around him.”

Queensland Treasurer Cameron Dick added that with over 20 years of leadership experience, particularly in the public sector, Mr Carey would be a positive addition.

Mr Dick commented: “Michael is a great leader who is highly strategic, intelligent and well-regarded by his peers and the private sector.

“He will bring these attributes to Queensland Treasury as the organisation increases Queensland’s prosperity and supports jobs growth, while maintaining fiscal responsibility.”

The State Treasurer also acknowledged acting Under Treasurer Maryanne Kelly who stepped into the role in February, taking on the added responsibility from her precision as Deputy Under Treasurer of Social Intergovernmental and Corporate.

Mr Dick added: “I thank Maryanne Kelly for her diligence and dedication as acting Under Treasurer over the last eight months.”

The appointment of Mr Carey follows the federal government needing to put forward a replacement candidate for the chair of the Productivity Commission after its previous selection snubbed the role to remain within the Victorian government.

The Albanese government’s initial selection Chris Barrett withdrew from the position to instead take up the role of secretary in the Victorian government’s Department of Treasury and Finance in December.

Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers MP revealed CEO of public policy think tank Grattan Institute, Danielle Wood, would be recommended to the Governor-General to be the next chair of the Productivity Commission.

[Related: New PC chair announced after previous appointee snubs role]