Gai Brodtmann (Canberra, Australian Labor Party, Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to speak about a remarkable Canberran who has just recently been appointed a member in the general division of the Order of Australia, and she joins us here today. Di Johnstone was recognised for her significant service to our community and also to the international community. She has dedicated her life to helping others, from her time with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade when was posted to South Africa in 1976. She was the first Australian female diplomat ever posted to South Africa and one of two Australian female diplomats posted to African postings. Di played a significant role in helping shape Australia's view of South Africa, Australian government action and Australian policy in the United Nations and, with Bruce Haigh, brought township art—or, as it is called now, struggle era art—to international attention.

During her time there Di cofounded the Ifa Lethu Foundation, which is devoted to the development and economic growth of South Africa's creative arts sector. This foundation, now 10 years old, manages South Africa's largest repatriation and creative entrepreneurial development effort.

Di also generously donated her time to a number of organisations back home in Canberra. She is a volunteer with Friends of the Albert Hall, Domestic Animal Services, RSPCA, ACT Rescue and Foster, National Trust ACT and Deakin Residents Association.

It is hard to think of a more deserving Canberran for this award. Our community is a far better place because of her many, many hours of dedication. Thank you, so much, Di Johnstone. (Time expired)