APPOINTMENT OF NEW CHAIR OF ASPI

Mark R G JOHNSON, LLB(HONS)(MELB), MBA(HARV)

Mark Johnson is currently Deputy Chairman and one of the founders of successful global banking company Macquarie Bank as well as Chairman of the Australian Gaslight Company (AGL).

Senator Hill said Mr Johnson has had a distinguished career in banking and senior levels of business in Australia, serving as one of the Prime Minister’s three business representative on the Business Advisory Council for APEC. 

‘Mark Johnson has wide knowledge of Australia’s commercial and strategic interests, public policy and global business experience. He understands Australia and its position in the region and the world,’ Senator Hill said. ‘He also has strong leadership skills and private sector expertise with particular knowledge of energy requirements of the region and the importance of energy within the strategic environment.

‘Mr Johnson is also a member of the Board of Governors of the Institute for International Business, Economics & Law at the University of Adelaide and a Director of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Limited. ‘ASPI serves to inform the Government and the public on strategic policy issues, to encourage debate and stimulate a broader community interest and involvement.

‘The appointment of Mr Johnson reflects the Government desire to meet that charter and extend the geographical influence of ASPI. With business and the economy critical components of the strategic debate, it is also intended to further encourage a wider business participation.’

The appointment follows the announcement earlier this year that Retired Major General Peter Abigail was appointed Director of ASPI. Professor Bob O’Neill as the inaugural Chair of ASPI provided the organization with a great start.

With the appointment of Mr Johnson I’m sure it will continue to grow as an important Australian institution.