Counterpoint Community Services Appointed as IFS Host Office for 2027–2028
The Board of the International Federation of Settlements and Neighbourhood Centres has appointed Counterpoint Community Services as the IFS Host Office for 2027 and 2028, and Michael Shreenan, Counterpoint Community Services’ Chief Executive Officer and incoming IFS Executive Director.
The decision will keep the IFS Host Office in Sydney, continuing the Federation’s current Australian hosting period and providing continuity for its international operations, member relationships, and strategic priorities.
Counterpoint will formally commence as Host Office on 1 January 2027. During the transition period, IFS, Counterpoint and the Local Community Services Association will work together to finalise the hosting agreement and ensure an orderly transfer of responsibilities.
Building on LCSA’s contribution
IFS sincerely appreciates LCSA for serving as the Australian Host Office since 2025 and for its significant contribution to strengthening the Federation’s operations, systems, communications, and international engagement.
Particular thanks are extended to LCSA Chief Executive Officer Can Yasmut for his leadership and commitment to IFS throughout the hosting period, and to the LCSA Board and staff for their support.
The transition to Counterpoint builds on this foundation while retaining the Host Office in Australia and strengthening continuity across the global network.
A familiar partner in a new role
Counterpoint has a longstanding relationship with IFS and has contributed to international conferences, regional development, member engagement and cross-cultural exchange over many years.
More recently, Counterpoint Chief Executive Officer Michael Shreenan has supported the day-to-day operation and development of the current Host Office, including membership administration, organisational systems, communications and the transition of IFS operations from Finland to Australia.
This existing knowledge and involvement will support continuity as Counterpoint moves into the formal Host Office role.
A shared international model
IFS remains an independent international federation governed by its Board, constitution and bylaws. The Host Office provides executive leadership, organisational infrastructure, administration and coordination to support the priorities agreed by the Board and membership.
The Board, Executive Committee, regional structures, working groups, member organisations, volunteers, and international partners share responsibility for delivering the IFS Strategic Plan.
The two-year hosting period will also allow IFS to continue strengthening its governance, operational model, and longer-term approach to future Host Office arrangements.
“We are delighted that Counterpoint Community Services will become the IFS Host Office for 2027 and 2028. Counterpoint brings strong community-sector experience, established international relationships and detailed knowledge of IFS operations. This appointment provides continuity while creating an opportunity to strengthen our governance, member engagement and shared international work.
“We also offer our sincere thanks to LCSA, Can Yasmut, its Board and staff for their leadership and contribution during the current Australian hosting period. Counterpoint will build on the important foundations they have established.”
Melissa Aase, President, IFS
“Counterpoint is honoured to have been selected as the next IFS Host Office. We see this as both a responsibility and an opportunity to support a global network grounded in local communities, participation and social justice.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the IFS Board, members, regions and partners, while building on the work undertaken by LCSA and the current Host Office team. Our immediate priority will be a smooth transition and the continued delivery of practical support to the IFS network.”
Michael Shreenan, Chief Executive Officer, Counterpoint Community Services
Next steps
IFS, Counterpoint and LCSA will now work together to complete the formal Host Office agreement and transition arrangements before Counterpoint commences on 1 January 2027.
IFS will share further information about the transition and the 2027 work program with IFS members as arrangements are finalised.
