Appointments to the new Advisory Board for the Australia-Japan Foundation

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Peter Corish as the Chairman of the Australia-Japan Foundation (AJF) and seven other members to the new advisory board.

Mr Corish has an impressive record of achievements. He was the President of the National Farmers Federation until 2006. He is the Chair of the Cairns Group Farm Leaders, a member of the Trade Policy Advisory Council and the Business Roundtable for Sustainable Development, and Director of the Australian Centre for International Research.

The following Board members have also been appointed to new advisory board:

Ms Catherine Harris, Executive Director, Harris Farm Markets (Chair of the former AJF Board);
Mr John (Jock) McGregor, President of the Victorian Chapter of the Australia Japan Society. (member of the former AJF Board);
Mr John Bowdler, Principle and Director, John Bowdler and Associates P/L;
Professor Mike Gore, Adjunct Professor, National Centre for Public Awareness, ANU;
Mr Malcolm May, Chair South Australian Government Export Council;
Mr Huw McKay, senior international economist, Westpac Bank;
Mr Peter Grey, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The new members bring to the Board a wealth of experience, influence and networking expertise in areas crucial to the development of Australia-Japan relations.

These appointments mark the beginning of a new era for the Australia-Japan Foundation. As part of the implementation of the Government's response to the Review of Corporate Governance of Statutory Authorities and Office Holders, the Australia-Japan Foundation was re-formed within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The new governance arrangements will ensure that AJF activities are sustainable and closely aligned with the Government's foreign policy and trade objectives with Japan.

I look forward to the Foundation, under its new Board, continuing to advance Australia's relations with Japan, a key partner for Australia.

In announcing these new appointments I wish to recognise the substantial contribution made by the outgoing Board. Through their commitment and dedication to building the Australia-Japan relationship, the Foundation has continued to build a strong program of activities. Their work has created a firm foundation for the Foundation as it commences its important work under the new governance arrangements.

Media Inquiries: Mr Downer's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555