Western Australian Museum director announced

Alec Coles, a museum director from the United Kingdom with 30 years of experience in the cultural and heritage sectors in the UK has been appointed director of the Western Australian Museum.

Culture and the Arts Minister John Day said Mr Coles would start his new role on March 22, following yesterday's approval of the appointment by the Governor.

"The State Government is delighted to have attracted a significant cultural leader and administrator of Mr Coles' calibre to Western Australia, after a lengthy national and international recruitment search," Mr Day said.

"This is another noteworthy appointment for the culture and arts sector.  Mr Coles will bring a fresh and international perspective and vision to the museum, building on the current significant strengths of the staff, scientists and curatorial team.

"I look forward to him applying his expertise in museum development as the State Government moves forward with its new museum plans."

In his current role as the Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums director in the UK, Mr Coles is responsible for 12 museums, galleries and heritage sites and is leader of the North East Regional Museums Hub.

Mr Coles has previously been Northumberland Wildlife Trust chief executive; Tyne & Wear Museums senior curator; and the Hancock Museum curator.

Speaking from the UK, Mr Coles said he and his family were looking forward to joining the Perth community.

"I welcome the opportunity to build on the Western Australian Museum's reputation as a premier State and Australian cultural institution and, in particular, to progress the development of an exciting new museum worthy of an ambitious city like Perth," Mr Coles said.

"I want to ensure the museum plays a significant role in the lives of the people of WA and, of course, its visitors.  The museum must function as a visitor attraction, scientific and research institution and touchstone for the heritage and identity of the increasingly diverse population."

Mr Coles said he looked forward to working with the board and the museum staff to further engage the local and regional communities of WA.

The Minister also acknowledged Diana Jones' two-year service as acting director.

"Ms Jones has done an outstanding job in leading the museum through some challenging times.  I thank her for the dedication she has applied to the role and wish her well as she resumes her executive management position and research role at the museum," Mr Day said.