AHRI NSW
State President Quarterly Message

Dear AHRI NSW members, 

Welcome to the latest update from the AHRI NSW State Council – and my final update as NSW State President as my term draws to a close (more on that below).

Congratulations to our newly HR Certified practitioners from last quarter! Scroll down to see the full list.

Introducing your new AHRI NSW Council representatives

With new Council members stepping into their roles from 1 July, I am pleased to introduce your new Council representatives: Paul Barrett FCPHR, Josette Moffatt CPHR, Marnie Rowden CPHR and Vesna Vrankovic CPHR. It is fantastic to see such a breadth of experience, including regional voices, represented across the incoming Council – ensuring AHRI NSW continues to reflect and support the diverse HR community we serve across the state.

Congratulations also to John Alexander FCPHR and James Hancock FCPHR on their reappointments for another term. It’s also my pleasure to announce that James has been elected as the next AHRI NSW State President. James brings deep commitment, innovative thinking and a genuine passion for our profession, and I know AHRI NSW will be in great hands.

I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to our outgoing Council members, Justine Cooper FCPHR, James Hare CPHR and Ross Leonardi CPHR, each of whom has made enormous contributions to our Council and community. Justine’s leadership as VP Certification has played an important role in supporting professional standards and member progression. James has been a passionate advocate through his work as Convenor for DEI and now continues that impact nationally as a member of AHRI’s DEI Advisory Panel. Ross was instrumental in helping reshape our network groups a few years ago, creating stronger foundations for member connection and engagement.

As my term concludes on 30 June, I have been reflecting on what a privilege it has been to lead this Council over the past six years. From navigating the challenges of COVID-19, to expanding our events and networks, contributing the voice of our members to national strategy, and celebrating the outstanding HR professionals who strengthen our profession every day, this role has been both transformative and deeply rewarding.

To our members, volunteers and the AHRI team – thank you. I look forward to supporting James and the new Council as they transition into this exciting next chapter.

Get involved – Volunteer with AHRI NSW

One of the greatest strengths of AHRI is the passionate community of volunteers who help create meaningful connections and bring our local events and networks to life.

A few weeks ago, we hosted a special volunteer information webinar featuring several of our Network Convenors, who shared their personal experiences of why they volunteer, the professional and personal benefits they have gained, and the impact volunteering can have on both your career and the broader HR community.

If you have ever considered becoming more involved, I encourage you to explore it. Whether you are looking to expand your network, grow your leadership capability, give back to the profession or simply connect with like-minded peers, volunteering with AHRI can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

To learn more, visit our Volunteer with AHRI page or watch the webinar recording here. We would love to welcome more members into this important part of the AHRI community.

Get ready for the AHRI NSW Conference 2026 

Join us on 25 June at Dockside for the AHRI NSW Conference 2026, themed HR+: Where technology scales and humans elevate.

In a world accelerated by AI, technology is transforming how we work, yet human judgment, trust, and connection remain the true drivers of success. Through a dynamic, carefully curated program, attendees will hear case studies from HR professionals and thought-provoking insights from non-HR experts, explore Australia’s productivity and labour market trends, examine the rise of agentic AI, and discover how HR can confidently lead workforce transformation.

Be part of the conversation and get your ticket by 18 June.

Join our Celebration Webinar – International HR Day 

On 20 May, we are proud to celebrate International HR Day with both AHRI’s national webinar and a special in-person event in Sydney – giving members the opportunity to connect, celebrate and engage in whatever way suits them best.

For those joining online, the national webinar, HR as Architects of the Future of Work, will explore how leaders are redefining their role in an era shaped by AI, workforce transformation and increasing regulatory complexity. It will examine how HR is moving from the sidelines to the centre of business strategy, and what that means for all of us in practice.

Register for free today – join HR leaders and practitioners nationwide online at 12pm AEST on 20 May.

Our Sydney celebration event – free for AHRI members – will bring together HR professionals to recognise the impact of our profession, connect with peers and celebrate the people shaping better workplaces every day. However you choose to participate, International HR Day is an opportunity to reflect on the critical role HR plays in shaping the future of work. Join your AHRI state network to connect with others and celebrate International HR Day.

Registrations now open – National Convention & Exhibition 2026 

Get ready for AHRI’s National Convention & Exhibition 2026 – where bold leadership and unwavering courage take centre stage. Returning to Brisbane from 4-6 August, I Am HR, Hear Me ROAR brings together global thought leaders, bold ideas and practical insights for HR professionals ready to make an impact.

Early bird registrations are now open, with AHRI members able to save up to $1,391 compared to a non-member on a 3-day pass, offering substantial value for members who attend.

Secure your early bird ticket now.

Thank you for your continued support of AHRI and the HR profession.