The Australian’s editor, Clive Mathieson, is leaving to take up a senior role with the NSW government. Mathieson, who has been editor of the newspaper since April 2011, has been appointed director of economic, infrastructure and state priorities in the office of NSW Premier Mike Baird.

The Australian’s editor-in-chief, Paul Whittaker, told staff in an email he was sad to see him leave the newspaper. “Clive has been a loyal and trusted colleague and on a personal level I will miss his support and absolute commitment,” he said.

“The Australian is, and always will be, the nation’s best newspaper with the finest stable of journalists,” Mathieson said. “To be involved at a senior role has been a privilege and I wish Paul and my dedicated colleagues every success in the future.”