DBCDE's NBN head to retire - UPDATED

Stuart Corner
Tuesday, 23 February 2010 10:21

IT Policy - Government Tech Policy

Colin Lyons, the public servant responsible for the NBN within the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy will retire at the end of February 2010. His replacement appears to have no communications experience.

Lyons currently "has responsibility for implementation of the Government's National Broadband Network initiative," according to a press release announcing his retirement.

Communications minister, senator Stephen Conroy, said: "Col has been a very valued member of the Department's executive for a long time and has played a key role in developing the National Broadband Network."

He joined the Communications Department in 1981 and in 2004 he was awarded the Public Service Medal in recognition of his work on telecommunications competition and regulatory issues.

During his career he has held many roles including the first assistant secretary of the Broadband Division and a range of assistant secretary positions dealing with telecommunications and broadcasting policy.

His long communications experience contrasts starkly with that of his replacement, Daryl Quinlivan.

Quinlivan is currently a deputy secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. He joined that department in 2001 as executive manager, fisheries and forestry division.

Before that he held a number or roles in the Public Service including policy and corporate positions in several departments: Transport and Regional Services and Prime Minister and Cabinet.

iTWire has sought comment on why someone who appears to have no communications experience has been chosen for what appears to be a key role in overseeing the NBN.

A DBDCE spokesperson said: "Daryl Quinlivan is a very experienced deputy secretary of the Australian Public Service, whose transfer into this position will provide the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy with an immediate infusion of high-level skills and experience across infrastructure investment, competition policy and commercial negotiation."