Founded in 2001, the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is Australia’s largest human rights organisation providing support to people seeking asylum. We are an independent not-for-profit organisation whose programs support and empower people seeking asylum to maximise their own physical, mental and social well being. We champion the rights of people seeking asylum and mobilise a community of compassion to create lasting social and policy change.

We are a value-driven organisation that strives to be part of a change movement that supports people seeking asylum by providing critical services such as assistance with accommodation, food provisions, casework and legal services.

The ASRC movement is proudly supported by a community of committed volunteers and supporters who embrace the organisation’s vision that people seeking asylum can live safely, sustainably, independently and equally.

Our Values

The human rights of people seeking asylum and refugees are at the foundation of all we do and the workforce makes it happen, doing the work to bring the vision and purpose to life.

Our organisational values are:

• Welcoming
• Authentic
• Courageous
• Collaborative

About The Role

The ASRC is seeking to appoint two Board Members who are committed and passionate about the ASRC’s values and empowering people seeking asylum and refugees to maximise their physical, mental and social well being. The ASRC is led by a skills-based board that is composed of an independent Chair and seven independent Directors. The Board oversees governance and strategy ensuring that the ASRC remains sustainable and continues to achieve its purpose.

In addition to the key governance areas and responsibilities, community and member accountability and movement development, these voluntary positions will provide guidance across the development of the ASRC’s organisational purpose, strategic direction and priorities. Responsibilities also include ensuring effective and accountable performance in relation to operational management including financial accountability, legal compliance and industrial relations requirements. The remit includes ensuring systems and processes are in place to enable consultation and information exchange between asylum seekers, staff and the board.

About You

The successful candidates will feel confident with their ability to develop positive relationships that lead to meaningful decision-making and respectful interactions to support a growing organisation as it embarks on a new Strategic Plan. You will complement the current skills mix of our Board to further enhance the governance of the ASRC.

In addition to your demonstrated passion for the ASRC’S work you will also possess relevant experience and backgrounds in one or more of the following fields:

• Legal
• People development, organisational culture or human resources
• Financial management, accounting and audit
• Governance and organisational change management
• Risk management
• Strategic ICT planning and implementation, cybersecurity and technology risk management

Candidates with lived experience of seeking asylum in Australia is highly desirable but not essential.

Previous board or board committee experience would be considered favourably but is not essential.

Application Process

Only applications that include a CV and cover letter addressing the Selection Criteria, will be considered.

Any offers of appointment as a board member are subject to a satisfactory Criminal History Check, proof of COVID-19 vaccination status and provision of a valid Working with Children Check prior to commencement including relevant director eligibility requirements.