Housing Choices Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Leilani (Lani) Frew as its new Chief Executive Officer, commencing 1 June 2026.
The appointment follows a comprehensive and highly competitive recruitment process led by the Board of Housing Choices Australia.
Chair of Housing Choices Australia, Rebecca Strom said the Board was pleased to appoint a well-respected leader with deep experience across government, finance, infrastructure and housing.
“Lani brings a strong combination of strategic leadership, commercial, financial and delivery capability, private and public sector experience, and a clear commitment to delivering outcomes for communities,” Ms Strom said.
“She has extensive experience working across complex systems and investment environments, and a strong track record of leading large teams to deliver strong outcomes. We are confident she is the right person to lead Housing Choices Australia into its next phase of growth and impact.”
Ms Frew joins Housing Choices Australia from the New Zealand Treasury, where she most recently served as Deputy Secretary, Financial and Commercial. In this role, she led large, high-performing teams operating in complex policy and delivery environments and oversaw the government’s debt program, export credit, commercial businesses and investment portfolios in housing, transport and infrastructure.
Prior to this, Ms Frew was the inaugural CEO of the Australian Government’s Infrastructure and Project Financing Agency and held senior leadership roles in NSW Treasury leading teams delivering the State’s major infrastructure projects, social and affordable housing initiatives and services commissioning reforms. She has also held senior roles in global investment banks, advising on major infrastructure and financing transactions in Australia and internationally.
Ms Frew said she was honoured to be appointed as the next CEO of Housing Choices Australia.
“Housing Choices Australia plays a vital role in delivering safe, secure and affordable homes for people and communities and it is a real privilege to be joining an organisation with such an amazing legacy. I am excited to lead our next phase of delivery and growth and to continue to create thriving communities.,” Ms Frew said.
“I look forward to working with the Board, our leadership team and staff and our government and industry partners to continue strengthening the organisation’s impact and deliver outcomes for residents.”
Chair Rebecca Strom also acknowledged outgoing Interim CEO, Michael Lennon, for his leadership.
“Michael has provided strong and steady leadership during an important period for Housing Choices Australia, ensuring the organisation is well positioned for its next chapter. We are very grateful for his contribution and ongoing support through the leadership transition,” Ms Strom said.
Mr Lennon will remain in role as Interim CEO until 31 May 2026.
For media enquiries, please contact Group Communications Manager, Preeti Daga at [email protected].
