Simone LeAmon Appointed CEO of the Design Institute of Australia

The ADA welcomes the appointment of Simone LeAmon as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Design Institute of Australia (DIA).

This marks an important shift for the DIA and a significant moment for Australia’s design sector.

We also acknowledge and thank Joanne Kellock, outgoing CEO, for her insight, support and consistent leadership over the past decade. Her contribution shaped the DIA’s national presence and strengthened the platform for this next chapter.

From 2026, the ADA looks forward to working closely with the DIA as we align on shared goals around advocacy, education and strengthening Australia’s design ecosystem.

A new chapter for the DIA

Simone joins the DIA following more than ten years as the inaugural Curator of Contemporary Design and Architecture at the NGV. Her work shaped a globally recognised program and delivered major opportunities for Australian designers through exhibitions, acquisitions and cross-sector partnerships.

Across this period, Simone built strong connections with industry, government and cultural organisations. This experience now informs her leadership of the DIA’s national agenda.

Industry and sector leadership

DIA President Ryan Russell describes Simone as “embodying the spirit and ambition of Australian design” and highlights the role she will play in strengthening the profession’s national voice.

Simone’s background spans commercial and creative practice across furniture, product, jewellery, interiors, digital and experimental design through her studios n+1 equals and Simone LeAmon Design and Creative Strategy.

She also brings extensive academic and advisory experience, including her role as Adjunct Professor at RMIT University. Her contributions to policy discussions and national design culture have made her one of Australia’s most respected design leaders. In 2021, she received the Good Design Australia Women in Design Award.

Simone’s vision for the DIA

Simone aims to position design at the centre of Australia’s national conversation—advancing its economic, cultural and social impact. Her focus includes:

strengthening design as a national capability
advancing professional standards
deepening advocacy across government and industry
building partnerships that support innovation, sustainability and education

With more than 380,000 designers working across Australia, the DIA continues to represent the broad spectrum of our national design community.

Simone commences as CEO on 12 January 2026.

Image: Eugene Hyland