Appointment of Australia-Korea Foundation Chair
I welcome the appointment of Mr Peter Coleman as the next Chair of the Australia-Korea Foundation at an important time in our bilateral relationship.
Established in 1992, the Foundation encourages deeper people-to-people links between our two countries including promoting the study of the Korean language by Australians and showcasing Australian excellence and innovation in Korea. As major regional players with strong economies, vibrant cultures and an enduring commitment to supporting peace and prosperity in our region, the importance of the Australia- Korea relationship increases every year.
The appointment comes as the Korea-Australia Free Trade Agreement enters into force and New Colombo Plan students arrive in Korea.
Drawing on his extensive business links and impressive academic, sporting and cultural connections, Mr Coleman will promote opportunities for Australians in Korea, and continued engagement in the arts, sports, science and media in his new role.
Mr Coleman is the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Woodside - a company with long-term business links to Korea, an honorary Adjunct Professor in Corporate Strategy at the University of Western Australia, an Ambassador for the Western Australian Museum and a Commissioner of the Western Australian Football Commission. He holds a MBA from Deakin University and a Bachelor of Engineering from Monash University.
Mr Coleman was appointed to the position by the Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd) and will serve in the role until 2019.
I thank the outgoing Chair, Mr David Palmer, for his outstanding dedication to deepening the relationship between Australia and Korea.