CANBERRA.- The National Museum of Australia in Canberra has welcomed three new federal government appointments to its governing Council, which will reinforce the institution’s continued commitment to excellence, enterprise and innovation.

Minister for Communications and the Arts, Senator Mitch Fifield, today announced that Ms Vicki Coltman, Ms Sarah Davies and Ms Fiona Jose would join the Council that oversees the Museum’s operations and performance.

Ms Coltman has wide experience in business and the arts in Ballarat, Victoria; Ms Sarah Davies is the CEO of Philanthropy Australia; and Ms Fiona Jose is the Executive General Manager at the Cape York Partnership.

Chair of the Council, Mr David Jones, said that the three new appointments brought a wealth of experience, networks, skills and expertise to the Museum’s Council.

‘I am delighted that these three exceptional people will be joining the Council, at a time when the Museum has enjoyed great success in telling the stories of this nation,’ Mr Jones said.

‘Each is highly regarded and well-known in their area, and all combine a great feeling for the issues in this sector with sound business acumen. They also know what excellence looks like, and the Museum is committed to a process of continual improvement and growth.

‘This is an exciting time for the Museum, which has a suite of fine programs and services, is business-savvy and confident, and has plans for redevelopment and refreshment of its galleries and exhibitions.

‘Our vision is to be a Museum for the nation, which strives to reach people wherever they are, and which understands its responsibility to take the Australian story to the world.’

The Museum opens its new blockbuster exhibition, Songlines: Tracking the Seven Sisters, on 15 September.