Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has appointed former News Corp executive Siobhan McKenna as the country's next consul-general in New York. The announcement was made on Sunday during the launch of Australia's bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council in New York.
McKenna's Background and Appointment
McKenna, who currently serves as the chair of Australia Post, has also chaired the National Broadband Network. Her career includes a role as CEO of broadcasting at News Corp. She will replace Heather Ridout, the former chief executive of the Australian Industry Group, whose four-year term expires in December.
Albanese stated that McKenna would "bring a great deal of financial and economic capacity to the role." The appointment highlights her experience across both the private and public sectors.
Questions About Murdoch Ties
During a press conference, reporters questioned Albanese about McKenna's long association with the Murdoch press, describing her as "Lachlan Murdoch's probably closest aide for a long, long time." They asked whether the prime minister had sought assurances that she would not "continue to lobby or deal with Mr Murdoch in advancing business interests."
Albanese responded, "Siobhan McKenna is a professional, and she will do an outstanding job representing Australia and the Australian government here in New York. And the fact that she has experience in both the private sector and the public sector is a very good thing. I'm someone who supports people being appointed on merit. Siobhan McKenna has been appointed on merit."
Impact and Next Steps
McKenna's appointment is effective after Ridout's term concludes in December. She will take on the role of consul-general in New York, a key diplomatic position for Australia, as the country campaigns for a UN Security Council seat. Her background in finance and broadcasting is expected to inform her work in the role.
