Council for Australian-Arab Relations Appointments

Today I announce the appointment of three new Board Members to the Council for Australian-Arab Relations (CAAR): Ms Amna Karra-Hassan, Mr Soufiane Rboub and Ms Widyan Fares.

The Board Members will contribute to CAAR's efforts to strengthen ties and create greater understanding between Australia and the Arab world. This includes through administering a grants program which supports projects aimed at further developing economic, cultural and social links to underpin Australia-Arab relations.

The new Members will bring a wealth of skills, networks and life experience to CAAR.

Ms Karra-Hassan is a community liaison officer with the Australian Federal Police and a strong advocate for Muslim women and young people. In 2011, Ms Karra-Hassan co-founded a new women's AFL team, the Auburn Tigers.

Mr Rboub has 15 years of experience in the international education industry and is the Chair of the Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry in South Australia.

Ms Fares is a senior writer for the Point Magazine at Multicultural NSW and is focussed on improving the relationship between Australian mainstream media and the Australia Muslim community.

I also announce that CAAR Board Member Councillor Houssam Abiad has agreed to take on the role of Deputy Chair.

All appointments will commence in January 2017.

I pay tribute to outgoing members Dr Glen Simpson, Ms Debra Counsell, and the Hon Mark Vaile AO, who have made significant contributions to the Council.

More detailed information on CAAR and its work can be found on http://dfat.gov.au/caar