Introducing New Victorian Veterans Council Chair

  • Minister for Veterans

The Andrews Labor Government has welcomed Roger Clifton as the new Chairperson of the Victorian Veterans Council.

Mr Clifton currently serves as a Trustee of the Shrine of Remembrance and has had a successful executive career, with roles in advertising, marketing and business strategy.

He is a Vietnam veteran, having served from 1970 to 1971.

He succeeds Laureen Grimes, who is the first woman to be appointed Chair and has been a member of the Council since 2012. Lieutenant Colonel Grimes has made a significant contribution to Victoria’s veterans and ex-service community through her work with the Council.

As well as advising the Minister, the Council promotes collaboration and coordination across Victorian ex-service organisations and provides advice on the use of patriotic funds.

The Labor Government is promoting women’s leadership by achieving 50 per cent representation of women in new appointments to paid government boards.

There are currently 10 women and nine men appointed to board positions in the veterans’ portfolio with the Victorian Veterans Council and the Shrine of Remembrance Trustees.

As noted by Minister for Veterans Robin Scott

“I welcome Mr Clifton to the role and am confident he will work hard to advocate for our veterans.”

“I thank outgoing Chairperson Laureen Grimes for the significant contribution she has made to the Victorian Veterans Council both as a member and as the first woman Chair.”

As noted by Victorian Veterans Council Chair Roger Clifton

“It is a great privilege for me to serve in this capacity and to not only continue the wonderful work of the Council, but also to extend it if possible.”

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