Chair’s message
The Honourable Nicola Roxon
As chair of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) Board, I am pleased to present this report for the 2024–25 financial year. This year, I have been reflecting on the importance of institutions that are both technically excellent and socially attuned.
The AIHW continues to demonstrate that it is not only a custodian of data, but a steward of public value.
The board’s role is to take the long view. We are focused on ensuring that the institute remains resilient, relevant and ready to meet the challenges of the years to come. This means investing in capability, continuing to strengthen governance and supporting leadership that is inclusive and evidence-driven.
The institute’s strategic refresh, initiated during the year, reflects a mature and forward-looking approach to planning. It is not just about setting goals – it is about aligning purpose, performance and public impact. The addition of a fifth strategic goal – to be recognised by First Nations people and organisations as an exemplary partner – is a great milestone. It enshrines a long-standing attitude toward how the institute engages with communities. It is not enough to collect data about people; we must also have valued and ongoing relationships.
Throughout the year, the institute has continued to expand its reach and relevance.
The development of new data assets in areas such as child wellbeing, disability and sports injury reflects a commitment to filling gaps in the evidence base. The National Health Data Hub (NHDH) is maturing into a platform that supports complex, longitudinal research. It is a significant technical advancement and represents a great contribution to a more informed and equitable society.
As someone who has spent much of my career advocating for preventative health, I am encouraged by the institute’s focus on the broader influences and factors that affect health and welfare. Understanding the social and environmental determinants of health is essential to designing policies that work. The AIHW is well placed to lead this work and the board will continue to support its efforts to connect data across systems and life stages.
The institute’s success depends not only on its technical expertise, but also on its culture. The Strategic Implementation Office, established this year, is helping to embed a performance mindset and a collaborative approach to change. These are the qualities that will define the next phase of the AIHW’s custodianship of Australia’s health and welfare.
I thank Dr Zoran Bolevich and all AIHW staff for their dedication and professionalism. Their work continues to shape the way Australia understands itself. The Board is proud to support their efforts and looks forward to the opportunities ahead.