The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) has appointed a public affairs officer, Steve Pivetta, to its Victorian state office.

Mr Pivetta is a former chief sub-editor, state political reporter, editorial writer, columnist, Walkley Awards finalist and accredited foreign photo-journalist.

He has 23 years’ experience as a senior journalist on Australia’s two biggest-selling metropolitan daily newspapers, in Melbourne and Sydney

For the past 10 years, Mr Pivetta worked as a media spokesman for Victoria’s largest state government department, Human Services.

Mr Pivetta starts in Melbourne today.

He can be contacted on 03 9235 3480 or steve.pivetta@immi.gov.au regarding Victoria-specific enquiries relating to the portfolio.

All enquiries of national significance should be directed through the media line of the department’s National Communications Branch 02 6264 2244.

National Communications: 03 9235 3480