New Council Chair appointed

Dr Brendan Nelson, AO has been appointed by the Council of the Australian War Memorial as its Chair.

Memorial Director Matt Anderson said:

“We warmly welcome today’s appointment of Dr Brendan Nelson as Chair of the Council of the Australian War Memorial.

“Dr Nelson demonstrated his outstanding commitment to the purpose of the Australian War Memorial and his support of veterans and their families during his seven years as Director.

“We look forward to working with Dr Nelson as our Chair. He will bring his passion, commitment and knowledge to serve the Memorial in this strategic capacity,” Mr Anderson said.

NOTES TO EDITORS

Dr Brendan Nelson AO

Since February 2020, Dr Nelson has been the President of Boeing Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific. Dr Nelson was the Director of the Australian War Memorial from 2012-2019 and is also a former Minister for Defence. As testament to Dr Nelson’s breadth of service to Australia, in 2016 he was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for his distinguished service to the Australian parliament, to the community, to the advancement of Australia’s international relations and major cultural institutions. 

Under the Australian War Memorial Act 1980, the Chair is elected by members of Council from within the Council. Dr Nelson was appointed to Council on 5 April to fill the position vacated by outgoing member Mr Kerry Stokes AC, who stood down after 15 years of exceptional and dedicated service, including as Chairman for more than six years. 

CONTACT Media team on 02 6243 4575, 0409 600 038 or media@awm.gov.au