The Sir Roland Wilson Foundation has released its 2024 Alumni Impact Report, providing a snapshot of alumni contributions to the Australian Public Service (APS).

There are currently 37 Sir Roland Wilson and Pat Turner alumni working across 19 APS agencies.

Sir Roland Wilson Foundation Chair Dr Martin Parkinson AC PSM said the lives of public contribution from Sir Roland Wilson and Pat Turner AM have paved the way for scholars and alumni.

“Known for giving frank and fearless advice during his time as Secretary of the Treasury, Wilson made crucial contributions to Australia’s economy in the 1950s and 1960s,” Dr Parkinson said.

“His advice was not always well-received and nor was it without risk. But it made an indelible impact on the future of this nation. Importantly, it was grounded in the rigour, skills and expertise developed through his two PhDs.

“Similarly trailblazing, Pat Turner AM often speaks of the need to be ‘in the tent’ – to create change for First Nations peoples from within established political structures. Attending the graduation of her uncle, Charles Perkins, from The University of Sydney in 1966, she saw first-hand the power and impact of education.

“Pat’s conviction and commitment to improving the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will be felt for generations to come.”

Dr Parkinson said he was honoured to be able to offer scholarships in the name of two outstanding Australians and looks forward to following the journeys of the Sir Roland Wilson and Pat Turner scholars as they too make their make.

“It’s clear that on their return to service, alumni are using the skills and knowledge they have gained through their study and research to understand better how public policy and programs effect everyday Australians – and to effect meaningful change that improves the opportunities available for their fellow citizens,” Dr Parkinson said.

The Sir Roland Wilson Foundation 2024 Alumni Impact can be downloaded from the Foundation website.

The Sir Roland Wilson Scholarship is a three-year, full pay scholarship for PhD research at ANU for high performing EL1 and EL2 APS employees.

The Sir Roland Wilson Pat Turner scholarship is a one-to-three year, full-pay scholarship for any level of postgraduate study at ANU or CDU for high performing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander APS4 to SES Band 1 APS Employees.

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Image: Kelly Chen Photography