The man who led Victoria’s health response throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton, has resigned.

Professor Sutton will step down from his role after four years to pursue a new position outside of government.

He will take up a new role as director of health and biosecurity at CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency.

Department of Health secretary Euan Wallace hailed Prof Sutton as an invaluable leader and thanked him for his work during the public health crisis.

“Since joining the Department in 2011, Professor Sutton has helped to develop a strong and responsive public health team, providing critical health information and advice on a wide variety of issues and emergencies over the years,” Prof Wallace said.

“He was appointed Chief Health Officer in 2019 and led Victoria’s health response throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, playing a key role in keeping the community safe and informed.”

Source: AAP