Kate Lundy (ACT, Australian Labor Party, Minister Assisting for Industry and Innovation) Share this | Hansard source

New legislation will be introduced into parliament next week for a restructured Australia Council. This will include modernising the governance structures of the council. This is a wonderful opportunity for the government to pay tribute to all those who have served on this vibrant body over its 40-year period, including the current chair, Rupert Myer, and deputy chair, Robyn Archer. The contribution of this amazing collection of people over a generation cannot be understated. It is an incredibly important contribution that often extends beyond the professional to the personal commitment of those involved. We were all deeply saddened that its most recent former chair, James Strong, passed away last week, and we offer our condolences to family and friends. He, like others, did so much to build the argument for the central role of the arts in Australian life— (Time expired)