FOI 25-0083 LD – Release Of The COVID-19 Response Enquiry Report – Department

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The Department of Health and Aged Care released an internal communication plan designed to support staff following the anticipated October 2025 release of the COVID-19 Response Inquiry Report. The plan acknowledges that the inquiry's findings—aimed at identifying lessons learned rather than assigning blame—would likely have significant emotional impact on department staff, particularly those in the Communicable Diseases and Corporate Operations Groups who directly managed the pandemic response. Key messages emphasize that staff made difficult decisions with evolving evidence and limited resources, that thousands of Australian lives were saved through implemented measures, and that reflection on lessons learned does not diminish the immense efforts deployed during the crisis. The plan outlines targeted communication strategies for different staff groups, with messaging emphasizing the inquiry's improvement focus and departmental support for staff affected by the report's findings.