STATEMENT FROM THE CEO
4 May, 2026.
With satisfaction and gratitude, I have decided to step down as CEO of the McKell Institute early in the new financial year, before commencing a new policy-focused role at the Institute.
It’s a tough call but the right one, made at a time of strength, growth and momentum for an organisation I feel very fortunate to have led.
It has been an incredibly active three years since my appointment.
We’ve opened two new branches in SA/NT and WA; made major interventions in the CGT, workers’ rights and safety, sovereign capability, renting, housing, and public health debates; influenced government decisions in multiple jurisdictions; scaled our events program across the nation; revived our international engagement in the US and established our UK program; and considerably increased our media visibility and capacity.
I prepare to depart the CEO role with McKell now established as a truly national organisation, and with an elevated place in our national debate.
I’ve relished this opportunity. But after three years of relentless travel in service of our ambitious agenda, I’ve decided to redirect my energy wholly to developing the policy ideas I’m so passionate about, while spending much more time with my 1 year old back in Adelaide.
I won’t be going too far. Soon, I’ll be stepping into a new position at McKell focused on articulating the progressive change I believe our country is crying out for, while furthering our collaboration with international progressive peers navigating similar policy challenges.
I want to thank our Chair Dan Walton, our board, and our entire team for their backing over the past three years and their support of this decision. I also want to extend my deep gratitude to every McKell member, project sponsor and supporter who has contributed to making the Institute what it is today.
I will remain CEO until a successor has been appointed in the coming months.
McKell has been my professional home for over a decade. I’m incredibly proud to have had a chance to lead it. And I’m excited about what’s to come.
A deeper personal reflection penned by Ed on his tenure at the Institute is available here.
May 4, 2026
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