Susan Cox

OAM

I joined the Department of Foreign Affairs (now Foreign Affairs and Trade) in 1984 before many of you were born.   

I wanted to experience the world close up.  I got that opportunity many times over through postings in Cairo, Egypt, Noumea, New Caledonia, Port Vila, Vanuatu and as Ambassador concurrently to the Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands and Republic of Palau and finally as Ambassador to the Republic of Croatia.   

There is no greater privilege than to represent your country overseas and to provide services to Australian citizens.  I served eight governments implementing and defending the policies of those governments as public servants do.   

I was honoured to be awarded an OAM for my efforts in coordinating the Australian response to the 2002 Bali Bombings.  This was the hardest and most complex job I ever did as we set policy on the run. 

I have an arts degree from the University of Canberra, including a University Medal, and a Masters degree from ANU and the Australia New Zealand School of Government.  My key skill set includes policy analysis, the ability to communicate ideas clearly and concisely orally and in writing and to negotiate acceptable outcomes. I love dealing with complexity and uncertainty.  Problem solving comes naturally to me.  But good outcomes require more than these skills. You cannot achieve what you want without building strong personal relationships. 

I may have retired from the public service but not from life.  I sit on two boards: Friends of the ANU School of Music and Croatia House. Both provide me with the opportunity to pursue my love of culture.  I am constantly amazed at how welcome my skill set - that if a senior public servant - is appreciated.