Heather Ridout AO (born 1954, Deniliquin)[1] is an Australian businesswoman who previously served as the Chief Executive of the Australian Industry Group.[2]
Born in Deniliquin in south-western NSW, she later attended the University of Sydney. She is a member of several policy-setting and advice-giving groups including Skills Australia. Heather Ridout was also a member of the Henry Tax Review[3] and chaired the Productivity and Prosperity Advisory Panel of the Population Strategy Task Force.[4]
Heather Ridout has various other appointments including Director of the Australian Super Trustee Board[5] and the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth.[6] She member of the board of the Climate Change Authority.[7]
In her former role with Ai Group, Ridout had a vigorous media presence, appearing on Network 10's Meet the Press programme,[8] the ABC's Lateline and Q&A programmes,[9][10] and various other radio and television shows.[11] In November 2011, Ridout gave a televised address to the National Press Club of Australia on the choices Australia faces and challenges we need to confront to create a positive agenda and a positive future for the nation.[12]
Ridout was made an Officer (AO) in the General Division of the Order of Australia on 10 June 2013.[13]
In December 2022, Ridout was announced as the next Australian Consul-General in New York, succeeding Nick Greiner.[14][15]