Perth’s Telethon Kids Institute has announced former foreign affairs minister Julie Bishop will be its next chair.
Perth’s Telethon Kids Institute has announced former foreign affairs minister Julie Bishop will be its next chair.
The appointment was announced at the institute’s annual general meeting last night by outgoing chair John Langoulant, who is stepping down from the role in August after 14 years' service on the board.
Mr Langoulant said he was delighted to hand the leadership to a successor with outstanding credentials.
“Julie has always been a wonderful supporter of Telethon Kids as our local member and has advocated on our behalf on many issues, including helping us to secure funding for our building and for research initiatives,” he said.
“Her extensive networks, legal mind, political insight and genuine interest in child health research will be an enormous asset to Telethon Kids and the families of Western Australia that we serve.”
Ms Bishop said she was keen to contribute to the not-for-profit sector, and there was no organisation closer to her heart than Telethon Kids.
“I have met with the researchers at Telethon Kids many times over many years and am always inspired by their commitment to making a real difference for children and families who are facing adversity, through disease, disability or disadvantage,” she said.
“We can be very proud and confident that medical research in WA is world class, and as chair I will strive to support Telethon Kids having an even greater impact in our community.”
Ms Bishop was deputy leader of the federal Liberal Party from 2007 to 2018 and foreign minister from 2013 to 2018.
She retired from politics in April.
There have been a number of roles rumoured for Ms Bishop since her political exit, including as Governor General, and Governor of South Australia.
Neither eventuated.
Other discussions have included the board of Seven West Media and of Rio Tinto.
Business News understand she has also created a consultancy, Bishop Partners.
