The Australia Council wishes to acknowledge the passing of eminent Australian author Antigone Kefala and pay tribute to her contribution to literature and to culture.

Ms. Kefala had a special connection to the Australia Council, having served on the Community Arts Board from 1976 to 1987 and as a Peer on the Literature Board in the 1990s. During her time with the Council, she worked tirelessly to promote multicultural projects and programs, and the Australia Council provided subsidies to a number of publishers to publish her works.

This year, Ms. Kefala was honoured with the prestigious Patrick White Literary Award, a testament to her outstanding achievements as a poet and writer of fiction and nonfiction.

Australia Council Head of Literature Wenona Byrne said:

“Among her many achievements, she worked to increase a sense of inclusion and pride among migrants of many nationalities, and allowed Australians to experience the beauty of other cultures firsthand. We extend our deepest sympathies to her friends, colleagues and family.”