Australian Electoral Commission Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Australian Electoral Commission has 6 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, information technology, staff coordination, legal counsel, and executive support.

Driven by a commitment to electoral integrity, Australian Electoral Commission ensures the transparency and fairness of federal elections and referendums across Australia, fostering public trust through robust electoral management and voter engagement.

Leadership Roles at Australian Electoral Commission

  • Chief Financial Officer - Sally So
  • Chief Operating Officer - Rachel Houghton
  • Chief Information Officer - David Lang
  • Chief of Staff - Amanda Axiak
  • Executive Officer To Chief Information Officer - Bethanie Styles
  • Chief Legal Officer - Paul Pirani
  • Sally So - Chief Financial Officer

    Sally So, the Chief Financial Officer at Australian Electoral Commission, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing budget allocation, financial reporting, and resource management, So ensures the economic stability and accountability of the commission's extensive electoral operations. This critical role involves safeguarding public funds and optimizing financial performance to support the AEC's mission of conducting fair and transparent federal elections and referendums. By implementing robust financial controls and driving fiscal discipline, Sally So directly contributes to the integrity of the electoral process. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include developing long-term financial plans, managing investment strategies for electoral infrastructure, and ensuring compliance with all governmental financial regulations. So's leadership ensures that financial resources are effectively deployed to facilitate voter enrolment, manage voting methods, and uphold electoral transparency for all political participants.

    Rachel Houghton - Chief Operating Officer

    Rachel Houghton, the Chief Operating Officer at Australian Electoral Commission, directs all operational facets of federal elections and referendums. Overseeing voter enrolment services and the implementation of diverse voting methods, Houghton ensures the AEC's operational readiness and efficiency across Australia. This leadership role involves managing the logistical complexities of electoral processes, guaranteeing accessibility for all voter demographics, including indigenous Australians and individuals with disabilities. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining procedural workflows, Rachel Houghton directly supports the commission's mandate for electoral transparency and integrity. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight extends to the development and deployment of electoral management systems, ensuring seamless execution from planning through to final reporting. Houghton's focus remains on enhancing the operational framework to meet evolving electoral demands and maintain public confidence in the democratic process.

    David Lang - Chief Information Officer

    David Lang, the Chief Information Officer at Australian Electoral Commission, architects and directs the organization's entire information technology infrastructure. Overseeing the development, implementation, and maintenance of secure and reliable digital systems, Lang ensures the technological backbone supports federal elections and referendums effectively. This role is pivotal in managing voter enrolment databases, secure voting platforms, and the digital transparency mechanisms for parties and political participants. By driving innovation in electoral technology, David Lang enhances the efficiency and integrity of the electoral process, ensuring accessibility for diverse voter groups. The Chief Information Officer's strategic vision guides the adoption of advanced IT solutions to safeguard sensitive electoral data and improve operational workflows. Lang's leadership ensures the AEC remains at the forefront of technological advancements in electoral management, bolstering public trust and operational resilience.

    Amanda Axiak - Chief of Staff

    Amanda Axiak, the Chief of Staff at Australian Electoral Commission, provides strategic support and operational coordination across key leadership functions. Overseeing the alignment of departmental initiatives with the AEC's overarching mission, Axiak facilitates seamless communication and execution of federal election and referendum plans. This role involves managing executive priorities, driving cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring efficient information flow between the leadership team and operational units. By streamlining administrative processes and enhancing organizational efficiency, Amanda Axiak directly supports the commission's commitment to electoral transparency and integrity. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include advising on policy implementation, managing stakeholder relations, and ensuring that all electoral services, from voter enrolment to voting methods, are delivered with precision and adherence to best practices. Axiak's strategic guidance strengthens the AEC's capacity to engage diverse voter groups effectively.

    Bethanie Styles - Executive Officer To Chief Information Officer

    Bethanie Styles, the Executive Officer To Chief Information Officer at Australian Electoral Commission, provides dedicated executive support and project coordination within the IT division. Overseeing the efficient management of the Chief Information Officer's schedule, communications, and key initiatives, Styles ensures the smooth operation of technology-driven electoral processes. This role is integral to supporting the implementation of secure systems for voter enrolment, voting methods, and electoral transparency. By facilitating communication and managing critical administrative tasks, Bethanie Styles directly contributes to the effectiveness of the IT department's contribution to federal elections and referendums. The Executive Officer's responsibilities include tracking project milestones, preparing reports, and liaising with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment with the AEC's technological objectives. Styles's support enhances the CIO's capacity to drive innovation and maintain the integrity of the commission's digital infrastructure.
    Paul Pirani, the Chief Legal Officer at Australian Electoral Commission, provides expert legal counsel and ensures compliance across all electoral operations. Overseeing the legal framework governing federal elections and referendums, Pirani safeguards the integrity and fairness of the electoral process. This crucial role involves advising on electoral law, managing legal challenges, and ensuring adherence to regulations concerning voter enrolment, voting methods, and political participant transparency. By interpreting and applying complex legislation, Paul Pirani directly supports the AEC's mandate to uphold democratic principles. The Chief Legal Officer's responsibilities include developing legal strategies, managing litigation, and providing guidance on electoral transparency initiatives. Pirani's legal acumen is essential in navigating the intricate legal landscape of Australian elections, ensuring the commission operates within the bounds of the law and maintains public trust.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Australian Electoral Commission Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Australian Electoral Commission?
    Australian Electoral Commission is led by Sally So (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Rachel Houghton (Chief Operating Officer) and David Lang (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Australian Electoral Commission’s executive team?
    The executive team of Australian Electoral Commission includes leaders such as Sally So (Chief Financial Officer), Rachel Houghton (Chief Operating Officer), David Lang (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Australian Electoral Commission have?
    Australian Electoral Commission has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Australian Electoral Commission’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Australian Electoral Commission includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff, Executive Officer To Chief Information Officer.