The Australian Government has announced the appointment of Tim Thomas as the chief executive officer (CEO) of the Centre for Australia-India Relations. The announcement follows the appointment of Swati Dave as the inaugural chair .
The Centre, set to launch later this year, will work across government, industry, academia, and the community to build a greater understanding of the Australia-India relationship and support new opportunities for collaboration, an official statement noted.
"The Centre will focus on promoting policy dialogue, building India business literacy and connections, engaging diaspora communities and deepening cultural understanding," a statement from Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs, said. In addition, it will also administer the flagship Maitri (friendship) program of scholarships, fellowships, cultural partnerships and grants.
"Thomas will lead the Centre for Australia-India relations in supporting this work, enabling greater understanding and deeper cooperation," Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
“I look forward to working with Tim, Swati, and the Centre’s Advisory Board as we seek to deepen our engagement with India," Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong said.
Tim Thomas, a partner at Global Strategy Group, KPMG Australia, has worked across the Asia-Pacific region and has held leadership positions in various Indian-Australian community organizations.
Thomas's previous roles include Asia-Pacific VP of Prudential Financial, CEO and country president of Prudential’s operations in Malaysia, and COO at Bharti AXA Life Insurance. He is also the founder of Her Village, a non-profit that supports women refugees in Australia.
