The Business Council of Australia has elected Catherine Livingstone AO as its new president for a term of two years.

Ms Livingstone is widely respected in the business community as well as in the not-for-profit and government sectors.

She has a wealth of experience in the benefits of science, technology and innovation across all areas of the economy.

Ms Livingstone has been Chairman of Telstra Corporation Limited since 2009 after previously serving as a non-executive director at the company.

Her career began as a chartered accountant and she has held several roles relating to finance and general management, particularly in the medical devices sector.

From 1994 until 2000 Ms Livingstone was the Chief Executive of Cochlear Limited, during which time she successfully floated the company on the Australian Stock Exchange.

She was Chairman of CSIRO from 2001 to 2006.

Ms Livingstone is a Director of WorleyParsons Limited, a Member of the Advisory Board for the John Grill Centre for Project Leadership at the University of Sydney, a Director of the George Institute, a Director of Saluda Medical Pty Ltd, and President of the Australian Museum Trust. She is also a Member of the Prime Minister’s Business Advisory Council.

Ms Livingstone assumes the role from Tony Shepherd, who has served as president since November 2011.

For further information contact:
Scott Thompson, Director, Media and Public Affairs
Business Council of Australia
Telephone (03) 8664 2603 | Mobile 0403 241 128