Families Australia, the national peak body for child and family services, today announced the appointment of Suzanne Greenwood as its new Chief Executive Officer, commencing 22 June 2026.

Ms Greenwood has more than two decades of senior leadership across the health, community services and for-purpose sectors. She brings deep experience working alongside members, partners and government to deliver real change for the families and communities they serve. She also brings extensive board-level experience in child and family services, early years programs, youth mental health, family and domestic violence and statutory child protection.

Deputy Board Chair of Families Australia, Phil Doorgachurn, welcomed the appointment and said Ms Greenwood brings a rare combination of national leadership experience, deep sector knowledge and a strong personal commitment to children and families.

“We are delighted to welcome Suzanne Greenwood as the new CEO of Families Australia,” said Mr Doorgachurn.

“She understands our role in bringing the sector together so the voices of children and families, in all their diversity, are heard where decisions are made.”

Ms Greenwood said the work begins immediately, including leading Families Australia’s campaign for a ‘Fair Go for Children in Foster Care’ and their carers.

“Every child deserves to be safe, and every family deserves the chance to flourish. Families Australia plays a vital role in standing up for children, young people and families, and in representing the member service organisations who work tirelessly to support them every day.”

“My life has been grounded in advocating for the care and wellbeing of all Australians, and I look forward to working with our members, partners, government and the Families Australia team to keep children, young people and families at the heart of the national conversation and the decisions that shape their lives.”

Ms Greenwood has led the national secretariats of several prominent Australian peak bodies, including the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Catholic Health Australia, and has worked extensively with government, the community sector and frontline organisations on national reform. She is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and the Institute of Managers and Leaders, an Associate Fellow of the Australasian College of Health Service Managers and holds master’s-level qualifications in business and law.

Ms Greenwood will lead Families Australia’s national advocacy and engagement efforts, working closely with members, partners and government to improve outcomes for children, young people, families and communities across Australia.

Available for comment:

• Phil Doorgachurn, Deputy Chair, Families Australia and Executive Director Safeguarding & Prevention at Australian Childhood Foundation
• Suzanne Greenwood, incoming Chief Executive Officer, Families Australia

MEDIA CONTACT: Kaila Murnain, 0418 445 452