Speakers

Michael Outram APM, Commissioner and Comptroller-General of Customs, Australian Border Force, will Address the National Press Club of Australia on "A legacy of service: reflections from bobby to border boss"

As his 44-year career in public service draws to a close, the valedictory speech by Michael Outram APM, Commissioner of the Australian Border Force, will be seminal listening for public servants of all persuasions, the private sector and the community he has ably served.

As Australia’s top border official, Commissioner Outram will reflect on a career that started with the London Metropolitan Police as a fresh-faced teenage recruit. The world has changed since 1980, and Commissioner Outram has been at the forefront in leading and responding to an increasingly complex security landscape. From being a first responder at the Baltic Exchange bombing in London’s financial centre, to leading forward forces on the ground in Ukraine following the tragic downing of MH17, and more recently closing and reopening Australia’s border due to the pandemic, Commissioner Outram has a wealth of experience.

Against a backdrop of a contested strategic global outlook, Commissioner Outram has not only protected Australia’s border, but also sought to realise the full potential of what is one of Australia’s greatest and most important economic and strategic assets. This has entailed processing around 40 million passengers and transacting almost a trillion dollars in trade each year – the true gateway to Australia and the world. Commissioner Outram will share his views and ambitions for this strategic asset as we move towards the 2032 Olympics and beyond.

Commissioner Outram has also led Australia’s engagement and influence within the international border management community and driven a modernisation and reform agenda at the World Customs Organization. Whether addressing his 186 peer administrations in Brussels, leading the 35 member administrations in the Asia-Pacific as the Regional Vice Chair, delivering keynote addresses at national and international events, or talking to small teams in the Australian Border Force, he has set the tone and direction for the future of the border and the nation.

Consistent and steady, throughout Commissioner Outram’s career has been his integrity, commitment to the mission and a people centred approach to leadership and culture. These traits, applied diligently have been instrumental to his success and their impact will continue to permeate and shape the future of modern leaders in global customs and the Australian Public Service.

BIO:

Michael Outram was sworn in as the Australian Border Force (ABF) Commissioner in May 2018.  Michael has an extensive career across law enforcement, ranging from the London Metropolitan Police, NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption, Australian Crime Commission and the Australian Federal Police.

Michael was awarded the Australian Police Medal in 2014.