Overview
Edward Alfred "Ted" Evans AC (4 March 1941 – 12 April 2020) was an Australian economist and senior public servant. Born in Ipswich, Queensland, he is best known for serving as Secretary of the Department of the Treasury from 24 May 1993 until 26 April 2001. In that capacity he provided central economic and fiscal advice to government and played a coordinating role in budget development and macroeconomic management throughout the 1990s.
Career and responsibilities
As Treasury secretary, Evans led the department that advises on taxation, spending, financial regulation and economic strategy. The secretary’s duties include preparing budget estimates, analysing economic trends, and contributing to policy deliberations across government. Evans occupied the role during a period of political transition, serving under both the Keating and Howard governments, and was involved in discussions on fiscal discipline, structural reform and the financial sector.
Board roles and public appointments
By virtue of his office, Evans served ex officio on several financial boards. He was a member of the Reserve Bank of Australia’s board from 10 May 1993 to 26 April 2001 and a director of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia between 1993 and 1996. These positions linked Treasury advice to central banking and major financial institutions and reflected the customary relationship between the Treasury secretary and key elements of Australia’s financial architecture.
Recognition and approach
Evans carried the post-nominal AC (Companion of the Order of Australia), indicating national recognition for service to public administration and economics. Colleagues and commentators described him as a seasoned public servant with a pragmatic approach to economic management, emphasising careful analysis and steady implementation over publicity. His tenure is often remembered for continuity of Treasury advice during a decade of important policy discussions.
Death and legacy
Ted Evans died on 12 April 2020 at the age of 79. His career illustrates the role senior public servants play in shaping and sustaining economic policy across changing governments. While Treasury secretaries operate largely behind the scenes, their work in budget preparation, fiscal policy and financial-sector oversight leaves a lasting imprint on national economic institutions and debates.