The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is set to benefit from a wealth of experience with the appointment of new commissioner Vice Admiral (Retired) Russell Crane AO, CSM.
Vice Admiral Crane brings extensive maritime experience to the Commission, including 40 years of service in the Royal Australian Navy, culminating in his appointment as Chief of Navy in 2008.
For his distinguished naval service he was awarded the Conspicuous Service Medal in 2000, Officer of the Order of Australia in 2010, Singapore's Meritorious Service Medal in 2011 and was decorated as a Commander in the French Order of National Merit in 2013.
Russell joins a highly skilled Commission. His background in strategy, risk, safety, governance and intelligence will strengthen the ATSB Commission with expertise to guide and support maritime investigations.
His appointment comes after Mr Gary Prosser, who served as an ATSB Commissioner for six years, ends his period of service to the Commission.
Gary served the Commission with excellence, strengthening the ATSB's maritime expertise, and supporting the ATSB to uphold a high quality of investigations and reports. He departs with the Albanese Government's sincere thanks for his six years of service.
The ATSB Commission consists of four members: the Chief Commissioner and three commissioners with expertise relevant to the ATSB's functions in the maritime, aviation and rail modes of transport.
Vice Admiral Crane will serve the bureau on a part-time basis for an initial term of three years.
