Honouring Sir Eric Neal AC CVO FAICD(Life) - AICD’s first member

The AICD was saddened last week to hear of the passing of former
South Australian Governor Sir Eric Neal.

H

e was AICD’s very first member in 1966, Governor of South Australia from 1996-2001 and Chancellor of Flinders University from 2002 to 2010. His name lives on with a library at the University of South Australia opened in his honour in 2001.

South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said: “As we mourn his passing and keep his family and friends in our thoughts, let us also acknowledge – and celebrate – Sir Eric’s contribution to our state and our nation. 

Sir Eric celebrated his 100th birthday in June 2024 at our AICD office in Adelaide, where many of our colleagues had the opportunity to meet and celebrate him. 

James Pedersen GAICD, AICD State Manager, South Australia and Northern Territory said he acknowledged the passing of Sir Eric “with heartfelt sorrow”. He passed peacefully at the age of 101 on 2 September 2025.

Sir Eric’s distinguished career spanned engineering, business, academia and the public service. His board appointments included BHP, Coca-Cola Amatil, AMP, John Fairfax Holdings and Westpac, where he also held the position of Chair. 

He leaves behind a legacy of excellence, integrity and service that will continue to inspire generations of leaders across Australia. 

Born on 3 June 1924 in London, Sir Eric migrated to Australia as a young child and went on to lead a life marked by extraordinary service, leadership and influence.

Sir Eric also held numerous honorary and advisory roles, including Chair of the Veterans Advisory Council, National Chair of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and Honorary Air Commodore of the City of Adelaide Squadron of the Royal Australian Air Force. His contributions were recognised with numerous honours, including:

• Knight Bachelor (1982)
• Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) (1988)
• Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) (1992)
• Knight of the Order of St John (1996)
• Centenary Medal (2001)
• US Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service (1992)