Philip Kimpton's ('96) impressive career in the Australian Public Service spans roles in international law, foreign policy, intelligence, and national security. With a steadfast commitment to advancing Australia’s interests and protecting its security, he has contributed to impactful projects both at home and abroad.
As a diplomat, Philip represented Australia at the United Nations, playing a key role in arms control and international relations. His work in intelligence has furthered national resilience, supporting government decision-making and safeguarding lives. Philip credits ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ with nurturing his curiosity and resilience, laying the groundwork for a fulfilling career marked by a sense of purpose and dedication to public service.
What motivates you to do the work that you do?
My work in the Australian Public Service, where I have served in international law, foreign policy, intelligence and national security roles, is driven by a range of complex challenges, both at the national and international level. I’m fortunate to work alongside dedicated professionals who share a strong sense of mission. My current role focuses on national resilience to better equip the country to deal with threats and shocks across the spectrum. In all my roles, furthering the interests, prosperity and security of Australians has been the core purpose. It's incredibly fulfilling to be part of something that has meaningful impact.
Looking back on your time at ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ, what were the most valuable things and values you learned?
ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ gave me a strong foundation in life. I learned the importance of hard work, perseverance, and resilience.
The school instilled in me the value of independence, and the importance of fair play and team work—striving for success but never at the expense of others. You learn to celebrate your victories and achieve more together.
ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ didn’t solve all my problems for me. It offered a lot of opportunities which I tried to seize. By year 12, I was editor of the school paper, head of the library service, acted in a play, played sport, was a prefect and juggled the demands of the HSC—looking back I may have overcommitted! And the friendships I formed at ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ are still some of the strongest connections I have today, even though we live in different cities and around the world.
When I joined the cast of a 1994 ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ play, “The Good Doctor”, I also met the most amazing woman, Anna-Louise, from Monte Sant’ Angelo. We played a married couple in the play. We became great friends, went to Sydney University together. We’ve been married 22 years and have four children – so you could say ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ changed my life in more ways than one!
How did your education at ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ prepare you for your current role?
I had a number of inspiring teachers who encouraged critical thinking and a love of learning, which set me up for success at university and beyond. ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ provided a well-rounded education across arts, sciences, history, and economics, which helped me adapt as technology evolved and pushed me to be curious and question information. This broad approach to education prepared me for the fast pace, dynamic and wide scope of work in the public sector, where good judgment is essential.
ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ also provided me a small scholarship for my first couple of years at university, which helped with the costs and pressures of further study. I went on to complete my masters at the University of Cambridge, where I was able to build on the foundations that ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ encouraged in me.
What’s your most memorable career accomplishment to date?
Highlights of my career included serving Australia abroad as a diplomat twice. I spent over three years as a legal adviser with the Australian Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva where I worked on humanitarian disarmament and arms control, and I later served three years in Malaysia leading the Political and Economic Section at the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur. Really varied, demanding and rewarding roles, and I will always see it as a privilege to represent your country abroad.
In more recent years, a particular highlight was serving in an intelligence organisation where we provided assessments that informed and supported policy makers in a number of conflicts. This work had significant impacts on government decisions and, I am proud to say, saved Australian lives. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding and involved collaboration with inspiring colleagues from whom I learnt a great deal.
What advice would you give to ÀóÖ¦ÊÓƵÏÂÔØ students today?
Explore a wide range of interests and pursue what you love, rather than just what you think you’re good at. Don’t overlook public service—it’s a fascinating area where you can make a real difference to your country and the world. There are a diverse range of roles and we are always looking for talented, bright and passionate young Australians. Seek out opportunities that challenge you and broaden your horizons.