AASW announces Kerryn Pennell as new Chief Executive Officer
For Immediate Release 12 January 2026
The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) has announced the appointment of Kerryn Pennell as its new Chief Executive Officer, following an extensive national recruitment process.
Ms Pennell brings more than three decades of experience across social work, mental health, public policy and system reform, and is widely recognised for her leadership in advocacy, ethical practice and stakeholder engagement at national and international levels.
AASW National President Liz Little said Ms Pennell’s appointment comes at a defining moment for both the organisation and the profession.
“Kerryn is an outstanding leader and a highly respected social worker whose career has been grounded in advocacy, ethics and social justice. As the AASW approaches its 80th anniversary in 2026, Kerryn’s leadership will be critical in strengthening our national voice and ensuring social work is recognised for its essential contribution to Australian society,” Ms Little said.
Ms Pennell has significant executive leadership experience across health, mental health and medical research, most recently serving for a decade at Orygen, the National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health. In her roles as Chief Strategy and Engagement and Director – Strategy, Development and Policy, she led national advocacy, government relations, policy development and stakeholder engagement, managing complex cross-organisational portfolios.
Ms Pennell has been a trusted advisor to ministers and senior officials, securing significant state and federal investment, shaping system reform following the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, and positioning organisations as national and global leaders through evidence-based policy and practice. Recognised for driving transformational change with measurable impact, Ms Pennell was inducted into the Victorian Women’s Honour Roll for her contribution to health reform.
“The AASW must continue to be a strong advocate for social workers and for those we work alongside every day. This includes raising the profile of the profession, highlighting the expertise of social workers, and working closely with governments to influence policy and practice,” Ms Pennell said.
Looking to the future, Ms Pennell said the AASW has a central role in shaping how social work is recognised and valued across Australia.
“My goal is to see social work recognised as the essential profession it is. Advocacy has always been central to our profession, and the AASW’s role is to listen to members and carry their perspectives, experience and passion onto a stronger, more influential national stage” she said.
Ms Pennell has a long-standing connection to the Association, including 11 years of service on the AASW National Ethics Panel. Kerryn Pennell’s appointment as CEO commenced on 12 January 2026.
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About AASW
The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) is Australia’s professional body for social workers. As well as representing and supporting social workers in their essential work, we set the benchmarks for professional education and practice in social work.