The Regional Australia Institute team have a wealth of experience in regional research, policy-making and community consultation.
The RAI team works under the strategic direction of the Board and in conjunction with input from the Research Advisory Committee and Research Fellows.

LIZ RITCHIE
CEO
BArts(PubRel), MAppSc(OrgDyn)
Liz’s primary purpose at the RAI is to make a difference through providing leadership, engagement, information and connectivity. Heralding from country NSW, she understands the issues impacting regional Australia and has designed and executed programs across Australia to engage in economic and social issues affecting our regions.

KIM HOUGHTON
Chief Economist
BSc(Hons), PhD(Econ)
Kim manages the RAI’s policy and research portfolio to ensure the Institute’s work has practical application and supports a better policy environment and more vibrant regional economies. Having worked on regional economic development in Australia for almost 20 years, Kim has a passion for engaging, motivating, informing and connecting entrepreneurial business owners.

AMANDA BARWICK
Corporate Affairs Director
BBus (Major in Journalism)

SHYLA VOHRA
Migration Director
B.A, LL.B, LL.M
Shyla Vohra has over 20 years of experience in the migration and refugee sector. Formerly with the United Nations, Shyla has worked on migration issues in Australia, Europe and the Pacific. An Indian-born Australian, she is passionate about working toward successful settlement outcomes that benefit both Australian communities and migrants themselves.

NINA DAVIS
Digital Communications Advisor
BGraphicDes, BA(Hons)