The National Museum of Australia in Canberra has welcomed the appointment of Karen Mundine and the reappointment of Natasha Bowness to the Museum's Council, both for three-year terms.
Ms Mundine is the Chief Executive Officer of Reconciliation Australia, a role she has held since 2017. She is the winner of the Australian Awards for Excellence in Women's Leadership 2023 and is also on the Board of Directors for the Sydney Festival.
Ms Bowness is currently Deputy Chair of the Council and chairs the Audit, Finance and Risk Committee. She is the Chair of Wilbow Group, a member of the Australian Ballet Foundation Board and a Trustee of Helen Macpherson Smith Trust. She also Chairs the Bowness Family Foundation, which supports access and opportunity in the areas of arts and culture, disability and education.
Minister for the Arts the Honourable Tony Burke MP said, 'both appointees' extensive skills and experience would keep the Council and Museum in safe hands'.
'Karen has been instrumental in some of Australia's most defining national events, including the National Apology to the Stolen Generations. Her passionate advocacy for First Nations people will be a great asset to the Council,' Minister Burke said.
'I'd also like to extend my thanks to Natasha for continuing to lend her skills and doing an excellent job as Deputy Chair of the Council.'
Director of the Museum, Ms Katherine McMahon, welcomed both Karen Mundine's appointment to Council and the news that Natasha Bowness would continue in her role as Deputy Chair.
'As CEO of Reconciliation Australia, Karen brings to the role more than 25 years' experience leading community engagement, public advocacy, communications and social marketing campaigns,' Ms McMahon said.
'We are also extremely pleased that Natasha will remain part of the fantastic team we have on Council. She has made an invaluable contribution to the Museum and our important work for the nation over the past three years and we all look forward to continuing to work with her.'
