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Resignation of John O'Neill
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KL115/2012
12 October 2012
Joint release
Senator the Honourable Kate Lundy
Minister for Sport
Minister for Multicultural Affairs
Minister Assisting for Industry and Innovation
Senator for the Australian Capital Territory
Minister Chris Evans
Acting Prime Minister
Acting Prime Minister Chris Evans and Minister for Sport Kate Lundy today thanked John O'Neill for his contribution to Australian sport following the announcement he will retire as Chief Executive of the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) at the end of the month.
Under John's stewardship, rugby union in Australia evolved from an amateur game and emerged as a modern sport in the professional era.
As Managing Director, John brought a renewed focus and was influential in shaping the direction of rugby union in Australia and was widely recognised as one of this country's best sporting administrators.
John brought a wealth of experience to the role and his strong commitment to grow the game will endure as his legacy.
Under his leadership, the ARU has commenced a governance review, progressed and implemented the objectives of the strategic plan and expanded Australia's influence on the International Rugby Board.
John dedicated 14 years of service to the game and he will be remembered as a strong contributor to the sport who helped to propel the growth of rugby in Australia.
He forged a strong foundation for the ARU and thanks to his strategic direction rugby is well-placed to build on his success.
On behalf of the Australian Government, we thank John for his years of services to sport over the last two decades.
Media contact:
Lundy office—Jess Hill on +61 407 926 077.
