JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS
ALEXANDER DOWNER

MINISTER FOR SPORTS AND TOURISM
ANDREW THOMSON

28 August 1998

Greg Norman Appointed As Ambassador For Sport

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer, and the Minister for Tourism and Sport, Andrew Thomson, today announced the appointment of Mr Greg Norman AM as Australia's Ambassador for Sport.

The Ministers said Greg Norman had established a reputation internationally over the past 15 years as one of Australia's most successful sportsman ever through his achievements in golf.

"Greg Norman's outstanding success in sport and business has drawn attention to Australia and its sporting prowess worldwide leading to significant increased interest in Australia in both the sports and business spheres," the Ministers said.

The Ministers said Greg Norman's role as Ambassador for Sport would include promoting the contribution sport has made to Australia's development through equality of access and the opportunity to participate in a very wide range of sporting disciplines.

"Greg Norman's status as one of the world's top sportsmen provides opportunities to promote Australia as a venue for more international events and training programs, especially in the lead up to the Sydney Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"Greg Norman's appointment acknowledges the vital role successful Australians in key areas can perform to advance the wider national interest."

For further information: 

Mr Downers'office: Innes Willox (02) 6277 7500 or
Mr Thomson's office: Craig Regan (02) 9327 7700