Chief Commissioner Designate

The National Executive Council has completed its selection process for our next Chief Commissioner of Australia, and the recommendation has now been sent to the Chief Scout of Australia, the Governor-General Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, to make the appointment with effect from 22 November 2026. 

We are delighted to announce that Ayden Mackenzie JP has been appointed as the next Chief Commissioner of Australia. Ayden will now serve as Chief Commissioner Designate until the current Chief Commissioner’s term finishes on 21 November 2026, ensuring a smooth transition. 

Ayden has been involved in Scouting leadership for more than two decades, holding a range of senior roles focused on youth development, organisational leadership and the delivery of quality Scouting Programs. His leadership journey has included serving as Branch Rover Council Chairman, Branch Commissioner, Venturer Scout Leader and Deputy Chief Commissioner – Youth Program, before being appointed Chief Commissioner of Scouts WA from 2020 to 2026. Across these roles, Ayden has worked closely with young people and adult volunteers at all levels of Scouting, contributing to the development and implementation of the Youth Program, supporting organisational change and strengthening opportunities for young people to lead, participate and shape their Scouting experience. 

Professionally, Ayden has built a career working with and supporting young people, with extensive experience across local government and education in youth development, student engagement, wellbeing and program leadership. 

We extend our gratitude to the selection panel for their thoughtful and diligent work throughout this process for the future of Scouting in Australia. 

Please join us in congratulating Ayden on his appointment to this important leadership role as he continues to guide our organisation into our next exciting chapter.