On behalf of the government, I extend my thanks to Michael Phelan APM for his service leading Australia's foremost criminal research and intelligence agencies.
During his five-year tenure as Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and Director of the Australian Institute of Criminology, the agencies contributed to the significant disruptions of criminal networks.
In particular, the work of ACIC in providing intelligence in high profile operations including Operation Ironside and Operation PHOBETOR as well as the ongoing disruption of outlaw motorcycle gangs has been vital to keeping Australians safe from serious and organised crime.
Mr Phelan also oversaw the development and maintenance of national information and intelligence sharing services through key initiatives including the National Criminal Intelligence System, the National Child Offender System and the Australian Firearms Information Network.
His appointment to ACIC and AIC followed a more than 30-year career in law enforcement, including service as Chief Police Officer of ACT Policing and Deputy Commissioner for National Security at the Australian Federal Police.
I thank Mr Phelan for his significant public service and wish him all the best for the future.
