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Media Release: Gary Quinlan joins Advance Board

Advance is pleased to announce the appointment of Australia’s former Ambassador to Indonesia, Mr Gary Quinlan AO, to its board, bringing globally recognised expertise in foreign affairs and trade to the organisation.

Incoming Board Director, Gary Quinlan AO

One of Australia’s most senior diplomats, Mr Gary Quinlan AO, has joined the Advance board in recognition of Advance’s contribution to Australia’s public diplomacy efforts. Best known for his roles as Australian Ambassador to Indonesia (2018-2021) and the Australian High Commissioner to Singapore (2001-2005), Mr Quinlan has been involved across significant pillars of Australian international affairs through his esteemed diplomatic career. He served in key roles advancing Australia’s ties with ASEAN, the East Asia Summit, the United Nations, negotiations with Timor-Leste, and at the Australian Embassy in Washington DC.

Advance Chair, Yasmin Allen, said: “We are delighted to have Gary’s perspective and experience, as Advance continues to grow it support for Australian expats, to ensure their global experience is fully leveraged by Australia.”

“His insight into international relations, particularly within the South East Asia region, supports our reach into the Australian communities in some of the fastest growing economies.”

Ms Allen said that Mr Quinlan would provide valuable insights and connections as Advance.org explores ways to reinforce Australian government initiatives and support people-to-people links by Australia’s overseas diplomatic posts.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Quinlan said he was pleased to be joining the board of Advance, an organisation that he has long supported, for its valuable role in building connections between expats and Australia. He said it was timely given the emphasis on soft power and the role global Australians play in enhancing Australia’s reputation abroad.

“When I see the immense talent showcased in the Advance Awards each year, I know that each of the individuals recognised, and many other Australians around them, are operating at the highest levels of global industries around the world.

“The work of Advance is instrumental to ensuring these Australians stay connected with their home country and help drive collaboration and innovation with organisations back home.

“This is even more important as economies recalibrate in a world of unprecedented technological change,” Mr Quinlan said.

ABOUT

Advance is the professional network for overseas Australians. It was established in 2002, by the then Australian Consul-General to New York, Ken Allen AO, who is now the Advance Chairman Emeritus and Chair of the Judging Panel for the annual Advance Awards. Advance is partially funded by the Australian Federal Government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT), and through the generous contributions of philanthropic donors and corporate sponsors who value Advance’s role in connecting global talent and elevating Australia’s global reputation.


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