The Minister for Broaband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today announced new appointments to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

Senator Conroy welcomed the appointment of Mr Geoff Luther and Ms Jennifer McNeill as new ACMA Members and the reappointment of foundation ACMA Members Ms Johanna Plante and Mr Rod Shogren.

“These appointments are among the first group to be completed under the Australian Government’s new arrangements for the merit-based selection of Australian Public Service agency heads and statutory office holders,” Senator Conroy said.

“Both Ms Plante and Mr Shogren have been Members of ACMA since it was formed in 2005, and have made significant contributions to the Authority’s deliberations.”

“Their reappointment will provide continuity and experience as ACMA prepares for future challenges in the converged communications environment.”

“Mr Luther and Ms McNeill will complement the existing ACMA Membership and provide valuable additional expertise,” Senator Conroy said.

Ms Jennifer McNeill will bring a strong regulatory and consumer perspective to ACMA. She is currently special counsel to DLA Phillips Fox and was a Commissioner at the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission ACCC, from 2002 to 2007, including a term as Commissioner with primary responsibility for consumer protection.

Mr Geoff Luther has a wealth of expertise and experience in spectrum regulatory matters and radiocommunications. He has acted as a full-time Member of the former Australian Communications Authority, from 2003 to 2005, and was awarded the Public Service Medal in 2006 for his work on the development of a comprehensive spectrum allocation system for Australia.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Professor Gerrard Anderson. Professor Anderson has indicated that he will not be available for reappointment upon expiry of his current term on 30 June 2008. I thank Professor Anderson for his contribution to ACMA’s work to date and I wish him well in his future endeavours,” Senator Conroy said.

The appointments will take effect from 1 July 2008.