The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) has bid farewell to Chairperson Deirdre O’Donnell, who stood down as Chair and ACCAN Director at its November Board meeting. Deirdre has held the position since November 2017 and has guided the organisation through a period of substantive change in that time.

“It’s been a real privilege to have been Chair of the ACCAN Board for the last five years, and to have worked alongside a group of talented and committed directors dedicated to governing ACCAN in line with its mission.

“In particular, the opportunity to work closely with the ACCAN team, who are not only hard-working but also incredibly passionate about trusted, inclusive, affordable, and available communications services, has been a special highlight. I look forward to seeing what ACCAN goes on to achieve as it continues representing Australian consumers.”

On behalf of all staff, members and stakeholders, ACCAN CEO, Andrew Williams, acknowledged Deirdre’s contribution to the organisation. “We’re incredibly appreciative of Deirdre's expertise and professionalism, and we wish her well into the future. She has been a tower of support to both myself and all ACCAN staff and it’s fair to say that we wouldn’t be the organisation we are today without her guidance.”

As a result of Deirdre’s decision to stand down, the ACCAN Board elected Professor Julian Thomas as its new Chairperson at the meeting. Prof. Thomas said that “It has been a pleasure and a privilege to work alongside Deirdre as a fellow Director and I am looking forward to building upon the strong foundation she has built. Deirdre has been an outstanding Chair and leaves a legacy of which she should be justifiably proud.”

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