The Australia Council for the Arts today announced the appointment of Ms Libby Christie as the new Executive Director of its Arts Funding Directorate.

As Executive Director of Arts Funding, Libby Christie will lead the delivery of the Australia Council’s many arts funding programs – ensuring they have a strong strategic direction, function efficiently and are responsive to the needs of the arts sector.

Libby Christie comes to the Australia Council having spent the past six years as the Managing Director of the Sydney Symphony, one of Australia’s flagship orchestras. During her time with the Sydney Symphony, Ms Christie substantially grew the orchestra’s artistic profile, box office and financial position, including increasing private sector support through sponsorships and private giving. Prior to this, Ms Christie had a distinguished 25-year career in management and marketing, with particular experience in the IT and telecommunications sectors.

Australia Council Chief Executive Officer Kathy Keele warmly welcomed Ms Christie to the executive team.

‘Libby brings a great focus and commitment to her new role at the Australia Council. She combines a detailed working knowledge of the arts sector with a strong background in leading management teams,’ Ms Keele said.

‘Her passion and forward-looking style will be a great asset in continuing to make the Australia Council’s funding programs relevant and accessible to artists and organisations across the nation. She will ensure our grant programs support the life cycle of artistic work from creation through to production and distribution to audiences.

‘She will also add valuable insights to the Australia Council’s wider agenda, especially in the areas of audience and market development, as well as private sector income,’ Ms Keele said.

The Australia Council’s Arts Funding Division manages the organisation’s grant programs for all art forms. It implements the decisions of peer review boards, committees and panels. The division has a focus on promoting excellence in artistic practice.

Ms Christie will commence her new role in the middle of April 2009.

Media enquiries – Andrew Parker 0402 936 466 or a.parker@creative.gov.au