New leadership for the Australian Institute of Family Studies

The Albanese Labor Government has appointed Ms Elizabeth Neville as the new Director of the Australian Institute of Family Studies for a 5-year term. 

Minister Rishworth said Ms Neville’s experience across multiple Government and non-Government agencies and the legal sector will ensure that AIFS continue to conduct high-quality, impartial research to inform Australia’s policies and programs.

“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Neville into the role of Director of AIFS,” Minister Rishworth said.

“Ms Neville will continue to bring valuable policy and operational experience to the role, particularly as the former Head of the Children’s Taskforce in the National Disability and Insurance Agency.”

“Our Government recognises the value of the work AIFS does to support the family services sector, and will continue to work closely with Ms Neville to ensure AIFS’ research, evaluation and knowledge translation supports the government to address the major forces, trends and transitions that will impact Australian families over coming decades.”

Ms Neville has been acting in the position since June 2023. 

AIFS is the Australian Government’s key research advisory agency in the area of family wellbeing and is an independent statutory authority established in 1980 under the Family Law Act 1975

Minister Rishworth said that AIFS is a key source of advice on relevant policies and programs delivered by the Department of Social Services.

“Under Ms Neville’s leadership, AIFS will continue to deliver critical research and insights into the wellbeing of Australian families, informing government policy and promoting evidence-based practices in the family services sector,” Minister Rishworth said.

More information on the Australian Institute of Family Studies is available here.