The Adelaide Festival is delighted to announce the appointment of former South Australian senator and federal government minister the Hon Amanda Vanstone to the Adelaide Festival board.
Born in Adelaide, Amanda Vanstone worked in retail and small business and as a legal practitioner before entering politics in 1984 when, at the age of 31, she became the youngest member elected to the Senate, serving as Liberal Senator for South Australia for 23 years.
From 1987 to 1996 Ms Vanstone was a member of the Liberal Shadow Ministry, serving as Shadow Attorney-General and Shadow Minister for Justice, and in 1996 became one of two women appointed to the new Howard Government Cabinet as the Minister for Employment, Education, Training and Youth Affairs.
Over the years Ms Vanstone held several ministerial portfolios including Justice, Family and Community Services, Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs, Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Status of Women, and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Reconciliation.
After her resignation from the Senate in 2007, she served as the Australian ambassador to Italy until 2010.
Ms Vanstone is currently Chair of the Anne & Gordon Samstag Museum of Art at the University of South Australia, the Board of Governors of the Institute of International Trade at The University of Adelaide, and Vision 20/20 Australia, and is Federation Chair of the Royal Flying Doctor Service Board, as well as a board member of the Port Adelaide Football Club.
She is also director of Drinkwise Australia and a Member of the National Commission of Audit, and is a presenter on ABC Radio National.
Ms Vanstone said of her appointment: “The Adelaide Festival started when I was in primary school and is an important part of our cultural life. I welcome the challenge of joining the team charged with guiding its future.”
Adelaide Festival Chair Judy Potter said: “I am very pleased to welcome Amanda to the board. I am confident she will make a significant contribution, bringing her strong skill set to benefit the Adelaide Festival as the new team builds on its legacy to ensure ongoing success.”
Arts Minister, the Hon. Jack Snelling said: “Amanda is a welcome addition to the Adelaide Festival board and I congratulate her on her appointment.”
Ms Vanstone’s appointment is until July 27, 2019.
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