This week, AELERT enters an exciting new chapter as Adam Slater steps into the role of CEO, bringing fresh ideas, deep regulatory expertise and a clear focus on driving practical benefits for regulators across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.

Adam has settled into Adelaide and is now based at AELERT HQ within the South Australian Environment Protection Authority. The Leadership Team has already begun working closely with him to shape a significant and ambitious year for the network in 2026.

With extensive experience in regulatory policy, environmental governance, capability building and cross‑sector collaboration, Adam has arrived at the perfect time to lead AELERT in a new phase of growth, connection and innovation across the network.

Adam’s first weeks will focus on:

• Strategic planning for the year ahead
• Commencing delivery of the 2026–2028 Strategic Plan
• Preparing the foundations for the AELERT 2026 Conference: Future Ready Regulation
• Developing new initiatives that provide tangible, practical benefits for front‑line regulators and senior leaders

We are excited for the ideas and energy Adam brings and the opportunity this will create to strengthen AELERT’s role as a hub for regulatory excellence across Australasia.

AELERT’s focus in the coming years is on delivering practical outcomes, strengthening evidence‑informed capability, and supporting cross‑jurisdiction collaboration so regulators can continue meeting the high expectations of the public.

In 2026, we will deepen our commitment to:

• Maximising value for member agencies
• Equipping regulators with the tools and knowledge they need to lead change
• Bringing together the foremost minds in regulatory practice
• Supporting innovative, future‑ready regulatory approaches

This is an exciting moment in AELERT’s history. The National Council is confident that Adam’s leadership will strengthen our network, spark new ideas and help ensure that AELERT remains a connected, capable and forward‑looking community.

Please join me in welcoming Adam to AELERT as we begin this important and inspiring new chapter.

Grant Barnes
Chair, AELERT National Council