Social Ventures Australia (SVA) is pleased to announce that Richard Spencer, Board Member of SVA, has been appointed as Commissioner (Social Policy) for the Productivity Commission. This is a five-year appointment.

Richard’s immediate focus as Commissioner (Social Policy) will be on the Human Services review that is currently taking place.

SVA CEO Rob Koczkar commented:

“SVA is delighted that Richard has been appointed to this highly regarded position. His experience in the sector is significant and he will undoubtedly make a great contribution to the Commission in this role.”

Richard has spent many years working at CEO level in the non-profit sector. He was the CEO of The Benevolent Society from 2004 to 2011, and has also held the positions of CEO of Cerebral Palsy Alliance and President and CEO of AFS Intercultural Programs in New York. Richard served as Executive Director for UNICEF Australia in the late 1980s. He is currently the Chair of the Primary Health Network in South East NSW and a Director of Women’s Community Shelters.

Commenting on his appointment, Richard Spencer:

“This appointment is an honour and I am privileged to be selected. The Productivity Commission plays a vital role in our society and with a focus on social policy, I hope to be able to share the knowledge that I have acquired during the years I have worked in the sector.”