Following her role at the NGV, Simone LeAmon’s appointment as new DIA CEO signals a bold new moment for the organisation – and for the future of Australian design. During her tenure at the NGV, she forged partnerships across industry, government and cultural organisations, creating nationally significant platforms that advanced designers, strengthened design’s economic and cultural contribution, and elevated its visibility within public life.

“Simone embodies the spirit and ambition of Australian design,” says Ryan Russell, President of the Design Institute of Australia. “Her career has been defined by creativity, intellect and vision – qualities that sit at the heart of the DIA’s mission. As the country’s peak body for design, we are committed to advocating for the profession at a national level, strengthening its impact and amplifying the role designers play in shaping Australia’s future. We are delighted to welcome Simone as CEO and look forward to the leadership, energy and clarity of purpose she brings to the organisation.”

Prior to joining the NGV, Simone built a career grounded in practice, delivering commercial and creative projects across furniture, product, jewellery, interiors, digital and experimental design. She has worked in her design studios n+1 equals and Simone LeAmon Design and Creative Strategy, while also holding a Bachelor of Fine Art from the Victorian College of the Arts, University of Melbourne and a Master of Design (Industrial Design) from RMIT University.

Over this period of vast experience, Simone has become one of Australia’s most respected design thinkers, an Adjunct Professor in the College of Design and Social Context at RMIT University, a mentor to emerging practitioners, and an advisor to government and industry contributing to national design discourse and policy. In 2023, she was recognised as an Indesign Luminary as part of the INDE.Awards.

“I’m honoured to lead the Design Institute of Australia and to continue its extraordinary legacy as the voice of design in this country,” says Simone LeAmon. “My vision is to place design at the centre of Australia’s national conversation—to make it seen, valued and invested in as essential to our prosperity, identity and future. The DIA will be the catalyst for that culture, uniting designers of every discipline and amplifying the impact of what we do.”

Under the leadership of LeAmon’s trusted industry knowledge, the DIA will focus on strengthening the role of design as a national capability, advancing professional standards and advocacy while forging partnerships across sectors to position design as a key driver of innovation, sustainability and social progress.

The role officially commences on 12th January 2026.

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