The Australia Council for the Arts today expressed their sadness at the passing of businessman and philanthropist Richard Pratt.

‘Richard was one of Australia’s leading arts philanthropists. His personal passion was reflected in the many millions of dollars and thousands of hours that he put into building a stronger arts sector. Richard and Jeannie have been wonderful and committed patrons of the arts and many other community causes over many years,’ said Australia Council Chairman James Strong AO.

‘Richard made a difference in the lives of many thousands of Australians through his support for art institutions ranging from the National Gallery of Victoria to the Australia Business Arts Foundation,’ said Australia Council Chief Executive Officer Kathy Keele.

Mr Pratt supported numerous arts projects through the Pratt Foundation, including the Union Theatre and the Ian Potter Museum of Art. He was also a personal benefactor of many major art institutions including the National Gallery of Victoria and Melbourne’s The Arts Centre.

‘He was one of the seminal figures in Australia’s burgeoning philanthropic sector, leading by example as a successful businessman who chose to give something back to his community,’ said Louise Walsh, Director of Artsupport Australia, the Australia Council’s initiative to grow cultural philanthropy.