Royal Far West appoints new chief executive officer

Royal Far West is pleased to announce the appointment of our new Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Briony Scott, to commence on Monday 4 May 2026.  

Dr Scott brings extensive leadership experience across the education and health sectors and a strong commitment to improving outcomes for children living in rural and remote Australia. She will lead Royal Far West’s ongoing work to support equitable access to high-quality health, developmental and wellbeing services for country children, families and communities.

Recognised as a leading voice across Australia’s education and community sectors, Dr Scott has more than 30 years’ senior leadership experience. She served as Principal of Wenona for 14 years and Roseville College for five years, leading significant organisational growth, major capital development and a strong focus on the holistic wellbeing of young people. In recognition of her leadership, Dr Scott was awarded Principal of the Year (Non-Government) in 2022 and named among the AFR’s Top 5 Most Powerful People in Australian Education.

Dr Scott also brings substantial governance experience in the health sector. She is currently Deputy Chair of the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse and has held a range of national board roles across health and education.

As CEO, Dr Scott will lead Royal Far West’s 2030 Strategy, focused on ensuring every child in rural and remote Australia can access timely developmental, mental health and the wellbeing support they need -through services Royal Far West delivers directly, enables through partners, or helps shape via policy and funding reform.

Royal Far West Chair, Joan Treweeke, OAM, said: “We are delighted to welcome Dr Briony Scott as the new CEO of Royal Far West. Dr Scott’s passion for the holistic wellbeing of young people and three decades of experience across education and community organisations, aligns perfectly with our purpose of improving the health and wellbeing of children who live in rural and remote communities.”

“I am honoured to become Royal Far West’s new CEO. This is an organisation with both a remarkable legacy and a clear future role. The challenge now is not only to continue delivering high-quality care, but to extend that impact so more children and families can access support earlier and more consistently,” Dr Scott said.

“My vision is to support Royal Far West to continue to grow as a trusted national leader in rural child health and wellbeing, expanding access to high-quality care, whilst ensuring the organisation remains sustainable, responsive, and deeply connected to the communities it serves,” Dr Scott added. 

The Royal Far West Board also acknowledges Chief Operating Officer Mark Driessen for his outstanding leadership as Acting CEO since December 2025, thanking him for his commitment and stewardship during the transition period.