The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, today announced the appointment of Professor the Hon Kim Beazley AC to the Council of the Australian War Memorial. “The Council plays an important role overseeing the War Memorial’s ongoing work as the nation’s major institution honouring those who served,” Mr Griffin said. “Professor Beazley’s lifetime interest in the military and previous service as Minister for Defence will bring a valuable perspective to the Council.”

Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, approved Professor Beazley’s appointment to the Council as a part-time member for a three-year term. After leaving politics, Professor Beazley turned to academia. He is the Chancellor of the Australian National University and has been Professorial Fellow in the Department of Political Science and International Relations at the University of Western Australia since 2007.

“Professor Beazley’s strong affinity with Australia’s military history and his distinguished 27 year career in politics will provide the Council with additional experience to continue its important role,” Mr Griffin said. “Professor Beazley’s unique set of skills will continue to build the Australian War Memorial's position as a significant national monument that commemorates the sacrifice of those Australians who have died in war.”

The Australian War Memorial’s mission is to assist Australians to remember, interpret and understand the Australian experience of war and its enduring impact on Australian society. The Australian War Memorial Council comprises up to ten part-time members, and the Chief of Army, the Chief of Navy, the Chief of Air Force as ex-officio members. As part of the continuing legacy of commemorating Australia’s wartime service, the Council is responsible for the strategic direction of the Australian War Memorial.