Suzy Neilan

Education

Suzy Neilan built her academic foundation at the University of Reading, earning a degree that shaped her early career in governance and regulation. She later strengthened her expertise through executive programs at the Australian Institute of Company Directors and the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford. This mix of domestic and international education gave her both local insight and global perspective.

Her studies highlight a commitment to leadership, strategy, and accountability. Moreover, they illustrate her ambition to apply best practices in modern governance and ensure high standards across regulated industries. This educational foundation now supports her work at the VGCCC, where complex decision-making and global awareness are crucial.

Career Milestones

Before leading VGCCC, Neilan worked as Executive Director of Strategy at the Environment Protection Authority Victoria. In this role, she designed long-term initiatives and guided the agency through major legislative and digital transformation. Earlier, she held senior positions at the Victorian Building Authority and Tenix Solutions, where she directed compliance, enforcement, and service delivery programs.

She also managed outsourced contracts for the Department of Justice, giving her direct experience in balancing regulatory demands with practical operations. These positions established her as a collaborative executive with a record of driving measurable outcomes. In addition, they built her reputation as a leader who embraces innovation in regulation. Her career trajectory shows a steady progression from operational enforcement to strategic leadership.

Innovation in Regulation

Neilan has consistently championed digital transformation and process modernisation. By introducing technology into regulatory systems, she helped organisations become more transparent and efficient. Her work has also improved the quality of services delivered to stakeholders.

In 2024, she received the IPAA Top 50 Women Award, recognising her leadership and impact. Beyond formal recognition, she actively mentors emerging leaders and continues to advocate for diversity and inclusion. These efforts ensure that innovation extends beyond technology and into the culture of regulatory bodies. Importantly, her approach highlights the role of people and systems working together to achieve reform.

Future Vision

As CEO of VGCCC, Neilan places integrity, consumer protection, and fairness at the core of her agenda. She plans to use technology-driven oversight to address risks in the gambling sector more effectively. Her vision includes stronger safeguards for players, enhanced transparency for operators, and consistent accountability for all stakeholders.

Looking ahead, she aims to position the VGCCC as a model regulator in both Australia and the global iGaming industry. By combining her experience in digital transformation with her focus on social responsibility, Neilan intends to build a safer and more sustainable gambling environment for Victoria. Her future plans also align with ongoing reforms in Victoria’s casino sector, where the commission continues to strengthen oversight following recent inquiries.