Kim Williams is set to become the new Chair of the ABC, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Wednesday morning.
Williams, a former Chief Executive Officer of News Limited, will replace Ita Buttrose whose term as Chair comes to an end in March.
Albanese made the announcement at a press conference with Communications Minister Michelle Rowland, saying Williams was a perfect fit for the role. Previously, Williams has held roles as chairman of the Sydney Opera House Trust and Commissioner of the AFL. He was the CEO of News Limited (now News Corp) between 2011 and 2013.
“The ABC plays an essential role in Australia – it’s a pillar of our democracy, a lifeline in disaster, a voice for the regions and part of our cultural identity,” Albanese said on Wednesday.
“It’s vital our national broadcaster has a safe and experienced pair of hands at the helm – and that’s what Kim will provide.
“Kim is eminently qualified to provide ongoing stability and leadership to this deeply valued Australian institution.”
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland thanked Buttrose for her time as Chair.
“Ms Buttrose is a giant of the media and business worlds,” Rowland said. “She has shown steady leadership for five years. She’s maintained a strong defence of the ABC’s independence.”
“She was the right chair for the right time and we wish her well for the future”.
Buttrose has been a trailblazer in the media industry, becoming the founding editor of Cleo magazine in 1972, and later editor of The Australian Women’s Weekly and The Daily Telegraph. She was appointed Chair of the ABC in 2019 by then Prime Minister Scott Morrison.
Buttrose announced she would not seek another term as Chair of the ABC in August last year.
At the time, she said: “I shall miss my time at the ABC. It was an honour to chair. All the things I’ve done in my career equipped me for this role. It was a challenging job. I hope I’ve made a difference.”