Covid medical chief Paul Kelly retires
Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly, who helped lead the nation through the Covid pandemic, has retired from the position.
Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly, who helped lead the nation through the Covid pandemic, has retired from the position.
Professor Kelly became CMO in late 2020 during the height of the pandemic, and acted as Chief Medical Adviser from 2019.
A statement from Health Minister Mark Butler on Tuesday applauded his leadership during “a time of extreme uncertainty”.
“His expertise, leadership and advice helped Australia successfully navigate the Covid pandemic – the country’s largest public health response in over 100 years,” Mr Butler said.
“Professor Kelly’s constant presence, technical expertise, and clear communication provided reassurance to the public and critical advice to governments.”
In January 2021, Professor Kelly told SBS: “I never thought (the pandemic) would happen, but of course it’s been on our minds for many years. My whole career really has been focused on what would happen if we did have a major pandemic, hoping that we never would … but here we are.”
He added: “We’re going to have to learn to live with this virus. I don’t think it’s going to be eradicated anytime soon.”
Public Health Association of Australia CEO Terry Slevin said “all people in Australia owe Professor Kelly a debt of gratitude for his dedication and leadership during a perilous time in history”.
“Professor Kelly played a vital role in helping Australia navigate through that crisis,” he said.
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