The Albanese Labor Government has today announced the appointment of Professor Martin Gibbs as the Chair of the National Cultural Heritage Committee for a term of three years.
The National Cultural Heritage Committee is responsible for advising the Government on important matters regarding our cultural heritage.
It plays a critical role in the protection of Australian and foreign cultural heritage, by providing advice on the export of items of cultural significance. The Committee also assesses funding applications from the National Cultural Heritage Committee.
Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said Professor Gibbs' expertise and professional experience made him an ideal candidate for the Chair.
"Cultural heritage is incredibly important, whether we're talking about Australian items being held overseas, or items we have here.
"The National Cultural Heritage Committee plays an invaluable role in making sure those items are returned to where they belong.
"Martin's extensive knowledge in this field will be integral to that work."
Professor Martin Gibbs has worked in the university and academic sectors for 30 years. He is a Professor of Australian Archaeology at the University of New England and has previously held academic positions at the University of Sydney, James Cook University, and the University of Western Australia.
