Media release
11 December 2008
Diplomatic Appointment: Consul-General in New York
Mr Phillip (Phil) Scanlan AM is to be Australia’s Consul-General in New York succeeding Mr John Olsen, who has been Consul-General since 2005. Mr Scanlan is expected to take up his appointment in April 2009.
The Consulate-General has a wide range of responsibilities in New York and in the north-eastern corner of the United States, including the promotion of Australia’s profile and interests in influential business, media, political, educational and cultural circles. It plays an active role in deepening two-way investment and commercial links, including through the Australia – United States Free Trade Agreement. It also promotes Australia more broadly as an innovative and sophisticated economy.
The Consulate-General liaises closely with the New York finance sector as part of Australia’s response to the current global financial crisis. It also promotes Australia as a Global Financial Centre and as a base for business operations in East Asia.
The Consulate-General aims to influence perceptions of Australia, and raise awareness of Asia Pacific issues, through its extensive contacts with New York-based media and think tanks as well as educational and cultural institutions. It also provides consular and passport services to Australians who live in and visit New York and the northeast of the United States.
Mr Scanlan will bring a wealth of experience to this position. He is the Founder of the Australian American Leadership Dialogue, which has played an influential and bipartisan role in building links between Australia and the United States. During his term as Consul-General Mr Scanlan will stand aside from executive positions associated with the Leadership Dialogue.
In addition to more than 25 years’ experience with public companies and enterprise networks, Mr Scanlan has an enviable record of achievement in Australian public life, including through his involvement with Asialink, the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Energy Efficiency Victoria and the Fulbright board.
Mr Scanlan is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Executive Fellow of Melbourne Business School and Fellow at the Australian and New Zealand School of Government.
Mr Scanlan was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 1998, in recognition of his voluntary service to international relations, and promotion of public health and environmental concerns. In 2003 he received the Centenary Medal.
Educated at Sydney, Adelaide, Oxford and Harvard universities, Mr Scanlan is married and has seven children.
Media inquiries
- Mr Smith's office 02 6277 7500
- Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555