About Us

Our Staff

Olivia Lanchester - CEO

Olivia Lanchester is the CEO and company secretary of the Australian Society of Authors (ASA). Previously, Olivia worked as an intellectual property lawyer in private practice and as a freelance editor. Olivia advises authors and illustrators on all aspects of the publishing process, and is highly experienced in the negotiation of publishing, agency and distribution contracts. She leads the ASA's advocacy on copyright reform, cultural policy, unfair contracts and lending rights, and advocates for the recognition of authors as key drivers of the creative economy. Olivia is also a director of the Australian Copyright Council and sits on the board of the International Authors Forum.

Jodie Spiteri-James - Professional Development Manager

Jodie Spiteri-James worked in Publishing in both fiction and non-fiction, as a Sales Director and Managing Director. After becoming a coach and specialising in Professional Development Jodie trained speakers, assisting them to hone their message and become a powerful voice. Jodie is now pleased her two worlds of publishing and professional development have collided at the ASA. Jodie is passionate about assisting others to bridge the gap of their knowledge and go on to make a difference in the world.

Lucy Hayward – Marketing and Communications Manager

Lucy is a marketing and communications professional with a background in technology. Her passion for all things books and reading was the driving force behind her move to the book industry where she worked as the Marketing Manager for Better Read Pty Ltd, including Newtown's Better Read Than Dead bookshop. Lucy is not only an avid reader, but is also enthusiastic about working with writers to support Australian writing, including on the literary podcast she produced, Talking Words.

Lauren Anderson – Services and Awards Coordinator / Style File Manager

Lauren Anderson coordinates the ASA’s awards and services, including the Style File illustrator portfolio service and the distribution service with John Reed Books. She has been with the ASA for eight years in various roles, including overseeing the CMS and database administration and providing member support and advice. Prior to the ASA, she has worked in newspaper production at the Australian Financial Review and research at the School of Teacher Education, Charles Sturt University Bathurst. She has a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Communications (Writing and Cultural Studies) from UTS. Lauren has a knack for complex database systems and loves to help members navigate their way through the publishing industry.

Angeles Galvez - Bookkeeper

Angeles Galvez is a BAS accredited bookkeeper with over fifteen years of experience. She has worked at the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Glen War & Co and various businesses in both permanent and freelance roles. When Angeles is not at work she enjoys summer days at the beach, running, spending time with her family and reading a good book.

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The ASA acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora nation, the Traditional Owners of the land on which we meet and work, and all Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia. We recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' continuing connection to land, place, waters and community. We pay our respects to their cultures, country and elders past present and emerging.


The ASA respects Australia's first storytellers.



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