Answers to Questions

SA Health

33 The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (29 May 2018).

1. What public selection process did the Premier undertake prior to the appointment of Mr McGowan as Chief Executive of the Department of Health?

2. Did the current Premier have any discussions with Mr McGowan about taking on the position of chief executive prior to the 17 March 2018 election?

3. What was the total cost of the early end of Ms Kaminski's contract?

4. Will Mr McGowan have complete authority as chief executive regarding the staff within the department and health services according to his own judgement as per the Public Service Act?

5. Have any key performance indicators been set for Mr McGowan—and if so what are they?

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing): I have been advised

1. Dr McGowan was one of several candidates interviewed for the chief executive's role. He was recommended for appointment based on his experience, skills and his extensive experience in the health sector.

2. The government was not in a position to offer anyone the position until after it was sworn in on 22 March.

3. The terms of Ms Kaminski's early resignation are subject to a confidentiality deed between her and the government.

4. Dr McGowan has been engaged as the chief executive of the Department for Health and Wellbeing, as per section 34(1) of the Public Sector Act 2009. He has the functions and duties of a chief executive of an administrative unit, as set out in section 31 of the act.

5. The priorities and performance measures that Dr McGowan is expected to attain are contained in his performance agreement with his minister. All documents pertaining to chief executive performance management, including the performance agreement, are managed in accordance with the Department of the Premier and Cabinet Circular 12: Information Privacy Principles Instruction.