Penelope Jones

Penelope is a public service leader with experience in policy, governance, communication, evaluation and program management. She serves as Assistant Secretary, Digital ID Communication, Inclusion and Governance at Australia’s Department of Finance. In this role, Penelope leads national communications on Australia’s Digital ID System and oversees System governance. Penelope also works in partnership with community sector leaders to maximise the inclusiveness of Australia’s Digital ID System, so more people can access a Digital ID if they choose.   

Penelope is a Department of Finance Gender Equity Champion, responsible for driving inclusion initiatives across the whole organisation, and has previously served as a Pride Champion at the Department of Education.

Previously, Penelope worked in post-crisis Timor-Leste and Haiti as a diplomat and then an aid worker. A University Medallist, she further developed her policy and evaluation skills through a Master of Applied Anthropology and Participatory Development from the Australian National University. She recently served as Board Chair at Beryl Women Inc., Australia’s longest-running women’s refuge.