Milisa Mcdowall Email & Phone Number

Australian Embassy, Indonesia

As Counsellor and Consul, I lead a wide range of operations at the Australian Embassy in Jakarta, Australia's largest overseas embassy. My responsibilities also extend to other important locations in the region such as Bali, Surabaya, Makassar, and Kuala Lumpur. Managing a team of over 100 staff members, my duties cover consular services, protocol, property management, organising ministerial and VIP visits, as well as overseeing ICT and transport services. A significant part of my job involves representing the Australian Government in high-level talks with government officials on complex consular and protocol matters. My goal is to maintain and enhance Australia's interests in the region, ensuring strong and effective diplomatic relations and cooperation.

Guiding the strategic direction of the ICT Policy, Communications and Training (PCU) section within the Information and Technology Management (IMD) division, I've taken charge of aligning our team's mission to provide leading policy advice, communication strategies, and comprehensive training programs. Through these initiatives, we enhance user experiences and expedite the adoption of advanced ICT capabilities both internally and amongst our partnering agencies. In addition to our core mandates, I’m deeply committed to fostering an inclusive work environment. I spearhead the execution of the IMD Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan, ensuring that it's more than just a document but a living testament to our dedication. By championing diversity initiatives, I actively advocate for a representative workforce that reflects the equitable vision we hold for the future.

Steering the Business Engagement and Communications (BGS) section, I spearheaded strategic relationships and painted a fresh, dynamic image for IMD. Under my leadership, we enhanced stakeholder relationships across multiple governmental agencies, boosting user experience and championing IMD’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. My team and I paved the way for IMD's transformation, using targeted departmental campaigns to foster change and welcome new IT capabilities. Beyond just technology, I drove initiatives that nurtured a culture of empowerment, flexibility, and inclusivity. I’m particularly proud of the recognition we garnered in 2019: the DFAT Secretary’s Gender Equality Good Practice Award for our dedication to promoting women in leadership roles in Canberra.

At the helm of DFAT's IT Operations Support Section, I championed IT excellence by leading dynamic teams responsible for top-tier technical capabilities and strategic relationship management. I was the pivotal contact for our Ministers and Senior Executive, ensuring seamless IT support.

In my role overseeing Ministerial & VIP Liaison, I strategically steered ICT support for Australia's top Foreign Affairs and Trade dignitaries, from the Minister and Secretary to Deputy Secretaries. A key highlight was orchestrating ICT support for pivotal conferences like the AUSMIN and the G20 Summit, as well as managing the ICT lifecycle for over 40 Ministerial suites nationwide.

Oversaw telecom finances for DFAT, collaborating with ministers and global teams. Streamlined services for multiple government sectors.