Founding Members

The Parent-Infant Research Institute (PIRI) was established following nearly two decades of clinical and research work through the Infant Clinic within the Department of Clinical and Health Psychology at Austin Health. This foundational work laid the groundwork for PIRI’s enduring commitment to improving parent and infant mental health through research, clinical innovation, and real-world application.

PIRI was incorporated in 2001 to bring together research excellence, clinical expertise, and leadership dedicated to advancing perinatal mental health. The individuals recognised here played a pivotal role in shaping the Institute’s early direction, governance, and vision, helping to establish PIRI as a trusted national leader in the field.

Founding Members of the Parent-Infant Research Institute

Professor Jeannette Milgrom AM

Professor Jeannette Milgrom AM

Appointed Executive Director of the Parent-Infant Research Institute in 2001
Founder and Executive Director of PIRI, Professor Jeannette Milgrom AM is a global leader in perinatal mental health, translating decades of research into nationally implemented, evidence-based interventions for families Australia-wide.
Mr Graeme Woolacott OAM

Mr Graeme Woolacott OAM

Former Board Member and Chair, Parent-Infant Research Institute (PIRI)
Former PIRI Chair and founding Board member, Graeme Woolacott OAM is a respected philanthropic and community leader with extensive governance experience across health research, industry, and service organisations.
Mr Lance Coburn

Mr Lance Coburn

Former Treasurer and Chair, Parent-Infant Research Institute (PIRI)
Former PIRI Chair and Treasurer, Lance Coburn was a distinguished global industry executive, former BHP Minerals and BHP Steel leader, whose strategic leadership and passion helped shape PIRI’s foundations.
Garry Evans

Garry Evans

Former Inaugural Chair, Parent-Infant Research Institute (PIRI)
Former inaugural PIRI Chair, Garry Evans is a senior BHP executive turned consultant, bringing extensive leadership across human resources, corporate affairs, governance, and community engagement to PIRI nationally and internationally.
Mr Graeme Henshaw

Mr Graeme Henshaw

Former Secretary, Parent-Infant Research Institute (PIRI)
Former PIRI Secretary, Graeme Henshaw is a senior corporate lawyer and former Allens partner, bringing strong governance, charity law, and commercial legal expertise to PIRI.
Ms Jennifer Ericksen

Ms Jennifer Ericksen

Senior Clinical Psychologist. Former Board Member, PIRI
Senior clinical psychologist and former PIRI Board member, Jennifer Ericksen leads program development and training, translating perinatal mental health research into effective interventions for mothers, fathers, and frontline health professionals.