2 January 2016
I extend my condolences to the family and friends of Brian Johns AO, former Managing Director of the ABC, who passed away on Friday.
Mr Johns made a strong contribution to Australia’s cultural life, through his leadership and work across the media and communications sectors.
As Managing Director of the ABC from 1995 to 2000, Mr Johns understood that digital technologies would fundamentally change the media landscape and his leadership helped to position the ABC where it is today.
Mr Johns also served as CEO of SBS from 1987 to 1992 and Chair of the Australian Broadcasting Authority from 1992 to 1995.
With a keen interest in Australian social and political life, Mr Johns worked as a journalist and political correspondent, and as a senior adviser in the Commonwealth public service during the Fraser and Whitlam Governments.
Mr Johns was also the founding Chair of the Copyright Agency’s Cultural Fund Committee and the Publishing Director of Penguin Books Australia from 1979 to 1987. He was also a board member of the National Gallery of Australia from 1992 to 1998.
Mr Johns’ legacy will not soon be forgotten.