Ruth Barker

Ruth Barker is the Senior Manager for International Engagement at Creative Victoria. She provides advice on, and develops opportunities for, Victoria’s creative sector to work and deliver projects internationally. As part of this role, she developed and delivered Australia’s first creative industries overseas delegation, accompanying the Minister for Creative Industries and Directors and CEOs of Victoria’s major creative and cultural institutions to China to develop new institutional and commercial relationships.

In a previous position as a Senior Advisor on international relations at the Department of Premier and Cabinet (Victoria), Ruth planned and delivered international travel programs for four Premiers as well as advised on country and regional strategies, trade mission programs and free trade agreements. Ruth has also held roles within the Department of Premier and Cabinet and the former Department of Industry, Innovation and Regional Development advising on economic policy, trade and industry policy and international engagement. Prior to joining the Victorian Government, she held roles at Transurban in government and corporate relations.

Ruth holds degrees in economics and international relations, with a specialisation in South East Asian studies. She has a deep love of all things India and loves the drama, excitement and infectious nature of Bollywood films. Ruth has spent years living in, and travelling around Asia.