Janet Whiting AM has been appointed President of the Council of Trustees of the National Gallery of Victoria, becoming the first woman to hold the position in the Gallery’s 154 year history.
Announcing the appointment, Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley said Ms Whiting brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Australia’s most visited art gallery.
One of Australia’s leading litigators, Ms Whiting is a partner with Gilbert + Tobin Lawyers. She also has extensive experience across the not-for-profit sector, with a strong focus on the arts and tourism.
Ms Whiting is Deputy Chair of the Victorian Major Events Company, a Director of Bell Shakespeare Company and the National Australia Day Council, and Patron of Stephanie Alexander’s Kitchen Garden Foundation, among other positions.
She has previously served as President of the Victorian Arts Centre Trust, was inaugural Chairman of both the Harold Mitchell Foundation and the Royal Women’s Hospital Foundation, and was a Director of Tourism Australia and the Melbourne Fashion Festival.
Ms Whiting has been twice recognised as one of Australia’s “100 Women of Influence” by Westpac Banking Corporation and the Australian Financial Review, topping the culture category in 2015.
She was made a Member of the Order of Australia in 2015 for her significant service to the community through the arts, health and major events sectors and as a legal professional.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley
“I’m delighted to announce the appointment of Janet Whiting as the next President of the National Gallery of Victoria Council of Trustees.”
“Janet brings to the NGV vast experience across the arts, tourism and major events sectors, and valuable expertise from her accomplished career in the law.”
“Janet’s contribution to the Victorian community – and our cultural life – is widely recognised, and I look forward to her continued contribution at the helm of Australia’s most loved and visited art gallery.”
Quotes attributable to incoming President of the National Gallery of Victoria Janet Whiting AM
“I’m honoured to take up this position at what is a very exciting time for the National Gallery of Victoria.”
“The NGV is recognised at home and abroad for its curatorial excellence and innovative programs but, more importantly, it is engaging and inspiring a growing, and increasingly diverse, audience.”
“I look forward to working with the trustees and the incredible gallery staff to reach new heights in the years to come.”
Reviewed 10 February 2021