Creative Australia celebrates inspiring philanthropy for the arts

The Creative Australia Partnership Awards were held this week in Sydney. Of the four awards, two Philanthropy Leadership Awards were presented – to James & Diana Ramsay Foundation and to ACT-based philanthropist Meredith Hinchliffe AM.

The awards celebrate “exemplary individuals from Australia’s philanthropy, business and arts sectors who show leadership in private giving, philanthropy and business partnerships with the arts”.

James Ramsay AO and Diana Ramsay AO gave generously throughout their lifetimes. In 2008 a foundation was created to continue this support. The James & Diana Ramsay Foundation is a champion for a robust arts sector, increasing accessibility and paving the way for viable career paths. The Foundation has funded in excess of $20m to more than 220 projects. View a video about the Foundation here.

Chairman of the James & Diana Ramsay Foundation, Nicholas Ross attended the ceremony to accept the award with Executive Director Kerry de Lorme. Kerry said: “The Foundation was very honoured to accept the Philanthropy Leadership award. We were amongst the esteemed company of many supporters and leaders of the arts and share our congratulations to all of the award recipients. Most importantly, we share this award with all of our partner organisations, as their dedication and commitment to their work is the foundation of our achievements.”

Arts advocate, writer and critic Meredith Hinchliffe is one of Canberra’s most significant philanthropic forces, having helped to nurture and preserve a range of cultural institutions in the nation’s capital. These include the National Museum of Australia, National Gallery of Australia, National Library of Australia, Craft + Design Canberra and Canberra Museum and Gallery. View a video about Meredith here.

Minister for the Arts, The Hon Tony Burke MP said: “Our Partnership Awards recognise some remarkable people who actively champion arts partnerships and investment. They generously create opportunities and access to the arts for all Australians.”

Creative Australia CEO Adrian Collette AM said: “This year’s inspiring Partnership Award recipients are committed leaders who actively collaborate to connect Australians with the creative sector. It is wonderful to see the vibrant possibilities when philanthropy and business support the arts.”

The judging panel were Kim Harland, Philanthropy Australia’s Director, National Membership and Engagement (QLD and NT) and Carly Severino, Director of Community and Acting CEO, Australian Communities Foundation.

Philanthropy Australia is proud of our strong partnership with Creative Australia, made even more so with Alexandra Dimos sitting on both boards.