AFSS Announces New Chief Executive
The Board of Directors Aboriginal Family Support Services (AFSS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Shona Reid as the organisation’s next Chief Executive, commencing on 3 August 2026.
This appointment marks an important milestone in the history of AFSS as the organisation prepares to farewell long-serving CE Sharron Williams following almost 30 years of dedicated leadership and service.
For nearly three decades, Sharron has helped guide AFSS through growth, change and opportunity while remaining steadfast in the organisation’s commitment to Aboriginal children, families and communities. Her contribution has helped shape AFSS into one of South Australia’s most respected Aboriginal community-controlled organisations and a trusted voice for Aboriginal families.
AFSS Board of Directors Chair, Donna Henry said Sharron’s legacy would continue to be felt for generations to come. “Sharron has dedicated almost 30 years of her life to AFSS and to strengthening outcomes for Aboriginal children, families and communities. On behalf of the Board of Directors, we thank her for her leadership, commitment and service. Her contribution to our organisation and community is profound and enduring.”
The Board of Directors also acknowledges, with deep respect and gratitude, the generations of Elders, community members, staff, and Board Directors whose wisdom, care, and commitment have shaped and strengthened AFSS throughout its journey.
“AFSS exists because of the vision, determination and leadership of Aboriginal people, including that of the late Brian Butler, who understood the importance of supporting children and families through community-controlled solutions. We remain deeply committed to that vision today.”
Following an extensive national recruitment process, the Board of Directors appointed Shona Reid to lead the organisation into its next chapter. An Eastern Arrernte woman who has lived and worked in South Australia for most of her life, Shona joins AFSS following her role as South Australia’s Guardian for Children and Young People. Throughout a career spanning more than 30 years, she has worked across child protection, youth justice, community services, governance and social advocacy, with a dedicated focus on improving outcomes for Aboriginal children, young people and families.
Board Chair, Donna Henry said the Board of Directors was confident Shona would continue to build on the strong foundations established by Sharron and those who came before her.
“Throughout the recruitment process, Shona demonstrated a deep respect for the history of AFSS, a strong commitment to community-controlled leadership and a genuine passion for strengthening outcomes for Aboriginal children and families. Her work and knowledge of the social service sector is deep, influential and of great value to our community and organisation. The Board of Directors is excited to welcome her to AFSS.”
Incoming CE Shona Reid said it was both a privilege and a responsibility to be joining the organisation.
“AFSS is far more than an organisation, it is the product of decades of advocacy, courage and commitment by Aboriginal people who believed our children, families and communities deserved to be supported by services grounded in culture, community and self-determination.
I am deeply honoured to be entrusted with this responsibility. I come to this role with great respect for the legacy built by Uncle Brian Butler, Sharron, the Board, staff, Elders, community and children, and with a commitment to listen, learn and lead in a way that honours that legacy.
The work of AFSS matters because our children matter.
Every child deserves to grow up knowing who they are, where they belong and that their community believes in their future. I look forward to walking alongside community and the Board as we continue that work together.”
As AFSS enters its next chapter, the Board reaffirmed its commitment to the organisation’s vision, values and purpose, and to ensuring Aboriginal children, families and communities remain at the centre of everything it does.
Donna Henry
Chairperson, Aboriginal Family Support Services
on behalf of the Board of Directors
