Louise Walsh has today announced her resignation to take up the position of CEO of Philanthropy Australia.  Kathy Keele, Australia Council for the Arts CEO made the following statement:

As Director, Artsupport Australia since its inception 10 years ago, Louise and her team have facilitated many millions in new philanthropic support for the arts in Australia.  We are delighted that she will be continuing her work in Philanthropy, albeit across a wider range of sectors.  I am sure you will join me in wishing her well as she takes up her new position.  Her final day at Council will be August 31.

The transition steering committee set up by the Minister to establish a new entity merging the functions of Artsupport Australia and The Australia Business Arts Foundation (AbaF) has already met twice and is working quickly to advise the Minister on necessary arrangements to effect a smooth transition to a one-stop shop for private sector support to the arts, including sponsorships, partnerships, philanthropy, individual giving, and volunteering.

AbaF and the Australia Council are working collaboratively to facilitate this merger.  It is an exciting opportunity to build a strong service organisation for the sector and one that will collaborate with many other organisations, including Philanthropy Australia.

In the meantime, both organisations continue to provide their range of services and advice to their stakeholders.  In the interim, the Artsupport team will report directly to the CEO. Also, the Australia Council will be engaging the services of Frankie Airey of Philanthropy Squared to support both me, as well as stakeholders in NSW, Canberra, and Tasmania on an interim basis.

Again, all the very best and congratulations to Louise.

Kathy Keele
CEO