The Australian Press Council acknowledges with sadness the passing of Emeritus Professor Ken McKinnon AO, who served as Chair of the Council from 2000 to 2009.

Professor McKinnon led the Council during a significant period for both the media industry and public policy in Australia, including debates around defamation, privacy, freedom of information and press freedom. During his tenure, he helped guide the Council through a challenging financial period while continuing to support its important role in complaints handling and media standards.

Professor McKinnon was widely respected for his longstanding contribution to higher education, public policy, and civic life in Australia. Beyond the Council, he had a distinguished career in education and public service, including serving as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wollongong from 1981 to 1995. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 1995 for service to education, the community, and the arts.

The Council extends its condolences to Professor McKinnon’s family, friends, and colleagues.