Australian Public Service (APS) veteran Rob Heferen is set to assume the role of Commissioner at the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

Heferen, with 30 years of experience in the APS, previously served as the head of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare for two and a half years.

His background includes prior roles at both the ATO and Treasury, in a career spanning policy development, program delivery, and international representation at forums such as the UN and OECD. 

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has commended Heferen as “an outstanding leader and one of the nation’s most experienced tax experts”.

The outgoing ATO Commissioner, Chris Jordan, who has led the organisation for a decade, will conclude his tenure in February. 

In another significant appointment, Sarah Hunter has been named Chief Economist and Assistant Governor (Economic) at the Reserve Bank of Australia. 

Formerly the head of macroeconomic conditions at Treasury and a partner at KPMG, Hunter brings a unique perspective to her new role, according to RBA Governor Michele Bullock.

The ATO, under the Albanese government, is expected to focus on long-term structural reform. 

Heferen, who ran the secretariat for the Henry Tax Review, is well-positioned to lead the ATO's initiatives. 

Chalmers says that Heferen secured the top job through a merit-based selection process, prevailing over internal candidates, including Jeremy Hirschhorn.

Heferen's deputy secretary roles since 2010 include positions in Indigenous policy, revenue, energy, and higher education. His systemic experience in energy, renewables, employment, and social welfare sectors is expected to position him strategically for the government's policy objectives.

The ATO is expected to pursue long-term structural reforms under his leadership.