I am pleased to announce that the Governor-General has approved the appointment of a new Chairman of the Council for the Order of Australia, the Honourable Sir James Gobbo AC, CVO.
This appointment follows the retirement of Rear Admiral Peter Sinclair AC after an extended period of service as Chairman. Admiral Sinclair was first appointed to the Council in 1996 and I would like to express, on behalf of the government and myself, our appreciation for the important contribution he has made to the work of the Council.
Sir James Gobbo is an outstanding Australian with a long history of public service in many leadership and representative positions, including as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Victoria, Chairman of the Australian Council of Multicultural Affairs and Chairman of the Australian Banking Industry Ombudsman. Most recently he concluded a four year term as the Governor of Victoria. Sir James has also been associated with many community organisations and charities throughout his career.
I am delighted that this distinguished Australian has agreed to give his time to this important role. Sir James brings to the Council a breadth of experience and achievement that all Australians can respect and admire.
22 August 2001