Arthur Metcalfe (public servant) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Dr
Arthur Metcalfe
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| Director-General of the Department of Health | |
| In office 20 October 1947 – 1 September 1960 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born |
Arthur John Metcalfe
26 June 1895 Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia |
| Died | 24 March 1971 (aged 75) Harbord, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia |
| Nationality |  Australian |
| Alma mater | University of Sydney |
| Occupation | Public servant |
Dr. Arthur John Metcalfe (born June 26, 1895, died March 24, 1971) was an important Australian public servant. He is most famous for leading the Australian Department of Health for many years.
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Arthur Metcalfe's Life and Work
Arthur Metcalfe was born in Newcastle, Australia, on June 26, 1895. His parents had moved to Australia from England.
He studied at the University of Sydney. After his studies, he became a public servant. A public servant is someone who works for the government to help run the country.
Leading the Department of Health
In October 1947, Dr. Metcalfe became the Director-General of the Commonwealth Department of Health. He had been doing this job temporarily for over a year before that. The Director-General is like the main boss of the department.
During his time as leader, he helped put a very important law into action. This law was called the National Health Act 1953. This act brought together different health programs run by the Australian Government. These programs included help with hospital costs, medicine, and doctor visits. This made it easier for people to get health care.
Dr. Metcalfe retired from his role in 1960. He was 65 years old. After retiring, he worked as a consultant for a company called Lederle Laboratories Products in 1961.
He passed away in Sydney on March 24, 1971, when he was 76 years old.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Metcalfe received special recognition for his work.
Rockefeller Foundation Scholarship
In 1947, he was given a special scholarship from the Rockefeller Foundation. This allowed him to travel for four months. He visited the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Europe. During his trip, he studied how different countries managed their national health systems. This helped him learn new ideas for Australia.
Commander of the Order of the British Empire
In 1954, Dr. Metcalfe was honored with the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). This award was given to him for his excellent service. It recognized his important work as the Director-General of health and quarantine in Australia.
