Bible Society Australia (BSA) has announced veteran mission leader Chris Melville as its new chief executive officer.
Melville had served as Interim CEO for the past six months and previously held the role of chief of mission, where he oversaw BSA’s domestic and international mission work, according to a Bible Society announcement on Jan. 30.
Melville commented on his appointment, saying he felt humbled to be chosen and “energised for the next season of ministry.”
“I’m genuinely humbled by this responsibility,” said Melville. “One of the biggest opportunities we have is to serve the church and its communities so that more people can engage with God’s Word. Helping people open the Bible — in a language and format that speaks to their hearts — is at the core of everything we do.”
The new CEO saw the challenges in Bible literacy as contextual and educational, as much as within language barriers.
“It’s not just language barriers — although with one in five people still waiting for the Bible in their heart language, and 129 million people with no Scripture at all, that need is enormous. It’s also the educational and circumstantial barriers that keep people from accessing the Bible. We see both the need and the opportunity, and that’s what motivates our mission.”
Melville also acknowledged that alongside opportunities, he foresaw “significant challenges” that will shape BSA’s future direction.
“The reality is that the scale of global Bible need is huge, and resourcing that need is one of our biggest challenges. We want to steward every gift wisely so we can continue to find ways to help all people encounter the Bible.”
He also emphasized an often understated need for practical barriers to be removed for people to actually access the Bible.
“One of the difficulties is simply awareness. Many Australians assume the Bible is everywhere, yet millions — globally and here at home — still face real barriers to accessing Scripture. Part of our task is illuminating that challenge, so people can understand why this work matters.”
Melville also highlighted the importance of partnership and innovation in the years ahead.
“Technology is giving us new ways to help people engage with Scripture, especially when geography or circumstance makes access difficult. And we don’t do any of this alone — it’s through partnership with churches, agencies and supporters that we can help more people encounter the hope of God’s Word.”
BSA Board Chair, Andrew Wiseman, said the Board is confident that Mr Melville is the right leader for the organisation’s next chapter.
“Chris has demonstrated deep commitment to Bible Society’s mission over many years, and throughout the recruitment process it became clear he possesses the experience, character and vision needed to lead BSA forward,” Wiseman said.
“We are grateful for the way Chris has led during his time as Interim CEO, and we look ahead with confidence in both his leadership and in God’s continued faithfulness to this ministry.”
Melville has served with Bible Society Australia for 21 years, including key leadership roles in mission strategy, international partnerships, and domestic ministry engagement. His tenure as chief of mission saw him work closely with global Bible agencies, partnering organisations and churches in translation, distribution, and Bible engagement initiatives.
Melville said the organisation will continue to innovate while staying anchored in its mission.
“We’re committed to trying new things, listening well, and working closely with the church and our partners. Our hope is that more people, both here in Australia and around the world, will encounter the hope and life that come through God’s Word.”
