The NSW Government has announced the appointment of Simon Chan AM as the new Chair of the Multicultural NSW Advisory Board, marking a significant step in its continued commitment to fostering inclusivity and strengthening community cohesion across the state.
Mr Chan, a highly respected figure in the arts, cultural, business and community sectors, has been a valued member of the Advisory Board since 2018 and is one of its longest-serving members. His appointment was formally announced by the Minister for Multiculturalism, Steve Kamper, at the Board’s most recent meeting.
Minister Kamper praised Mr Chan’s wide-ranging contributions and his deep engagement across multiple sectors.
“Simon has been an outstanding contributor to the Advisory Board for many years, and his experience, advocacy and community work made him an obvious candidate to take on this important role,” the Minister said.
“A multiculturalism champion, Simon has done incredible work supporting and uplifting NSW’s diverse communities, with a track record of success.
He leads with inclusivity and brings a depth of experience across diverse sectors. I look forward to working alongside Simon as he continues to serve our vibrant multicultural society.”
In addition to his new role as Chair, Mr Chan holds several key leadership positions. He is President of the Chinese Australian Forum, a Director on the board of Sydney Festival, and Chair of the VisAsia Committee at the Art Gallery of NSW. He also serves as a member of the Federal Government’s Australian Multicultural Council, Director of the Australian National Maritime Museum Foundation, and Member of the NSW Government Geographical Names Board.
He is also the Founder and Director of Art Atrium, a contemporary Sydney-based art gallery known for promoting cross-cultural collaboration and artistic expression as a reflection of Australia’s multicultural identity.
Mr Chan takes over from former chair Nick Kaldas APM, bringing with him not only extensive institutional knowledge but also a commitment to inclusion and social cohesion.
“I am honoured to be appointed Chair of the Multicultural NSW Advisory Board,” said Mr Chan.
“I look forward to continuing to work with the Minister for Multiculturalism and our Advisory Board members to maintain social cohesion in the current challenging community environment.
I want to see everyone in our multicultural society feel a strong sense of belonging as Australians.”
Welcoming the appointment, Multicultural NSW CEO Joseph La Posta highlighted Mr Chan’s long-standing service and dedication.
“Simon’s longstanding commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive and united multicultural community in NSW will serve us well as he takes on this important role,” said Mr La Posta.
“Simon has been a dedicated and passionate member of our Advisory Board.
He brings a wealth of knowledge, lived experience and leadership to the role, and I look forward to working closely with him to continue advancing social cohesion and harmony across our state.”
As Chair, Mr Chan will lead the Advisory Board in providing strategic guidance and insight to ensure that Multicultural NSW continues to reflect, support and empower the diverse communities that call the state home.
