Ms. Kathy Keele, Chief Executive Officer, of the Australia Council for the Arts will leave the national funding and advisory agency at the end of this year.

In making the announcement, the Australia Council’s Chair, Mr. Rupert Myer AM, paid tribute to Ms. Keele’s leadership: ‘I congratulate and thank Kathy for her tireless and strategic work on behalf of the arts. She has made a transformative contribution to the Australia Council’.

Kathy leaves a responsive and highly capable organization. She has ensured that the Council is steadfastly committed to supporting Australian artists, companies and creativity across our nation, our region and beyond, and is at the forefront of research into the value of the arts.’

‘It has been an honour to lead the Australia Council for almost six years; however, I feel the timing is right.’ said Ms. Keele It has been an extraordinary journey; from working with artists in regional and remote communities, to providing insights into how Australians are participating in the arts, to working with such a committed Governing board and executive staff. I am sad to leave; but I depart knowing that the Australia Council is delivering sustained outcomes for Australian arts and culture nationally and internationally.’

It has been inspiring and immensely satisfying to work closely with artists, arts professionals, the business and wider communities to support the making and appreciation of great art.’

I am grateful to current Chairman, Mr. Rupert Myer and previous Chair, Mr. James Strong, who have supported me and ensured that the Australia Council continues to be deeply engaged with the arts sector and the Australian public.’ said Ms. Keele.

Arts Minister Simon Crean thanked Ms Keele for her leadership and dedication leading the Australian Government’s principal arts funding and advisory body.

“Ms Keele has managed the Australia Council at a time of major changes in the arts and broader cultural sector and helped the Council respond to it, Mr Crean said.

She has overseen the Council during a major review process and I thank her for her contribution in setting future directions for Government support for the arts and for artists.

Mr. Myer said the Council will now commence the search for a new CEO.

He also announced that Ms Libby Christie will act as CEO from January 2013. Ms. Christie is currently Executive Director of Arts Funding at the Australia Council. She is an experienced business and arts leader and was previously Managing Director of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.