In a strategic move to foster the growth and support of the arts in South Australia, the SA Government has announced pivotal new appointments in the sector. The Department of the Premier and Cabinet has introduced a significant position, with Clare Mockler appointed as the Interim Executive Director, Arts South Australia starting this week.
Formerly the CEO at the City of Adelaide, Clare Mockler is recognised for her impressive expertise and dedication. Her role is set to be crucial as she guides the introduction of a new cultural policy aimed at shaping the long-term outlook for arts, culture, and creativity in the state. This announcement follows the finalisation of this policy, which is expected to be released shortly.
In a related appointment, Ruth Mackenzie CBE, the current Artistic Director of the Adelaide Festival, will transition to a new government role as Program Director, Arts, Culture and Creative Industries Policy, housed within the same department. Ruth Mackenzie, celebrated for steering the successful 2024 Adelaide Festival, will utilise her vast experience to ensure the effective implementation and execution of the new arts policy.
Another key announcement includes the return of Brett Sheehy AO as the Artistic Director of the 2025 Adelaide Festival, a position he previously held from 2005 to 2008. In his returning role, Sheehy is tasked with the programming and overall execution of the 2025 Festival scheduled for next March, and will also lay the groundwork for the 2026 Festival.
Becc Bates, currently Director Creative Industries, will take on the role of Director Strategy and Investment within the Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC). Bates is set to collaborate closely with Mockler to advance major priorities across the state’s cultural landscape.
Minister for Arts, Andrea Michaels, shared her thoughts on these top-tier appointments. “I’m delighted to welcome Clare to this hugely important interim role, ahead of a longer-term appointment in the coming months,” said Michaels. “She is equipped with an array of talents that make her a perfect person for the role, and I look forward to working with her and her team to deliver and embed the state’s impending landmark cultural policy. I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome Ruth to her critical new role, as well as thank her again for her outstanding stewardship and delivery of one of our state’s premier artistic celebrations, the Adelaide Festival.”
The position of Executive Director Arts South Australia will be formally advertised in the near future as the government seeks a permanent appointee.
More News
