• Most meetings are online however, some meetings may be in person.

Our Organisation

Founded in 2001, the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is Australia’s largest independent human rights organisation supporting people seeking asylum. As a not-for-profit organisation, the ASRC delivers a wide range of programs designed to empower and support individuals to achieve physical, mental, and social well-being.

The ASRC advocates for the rights of people seeking asylum and fosters a community of compassion committed to driving lasting social and policy change. Its work is made possible through the dedication of a strong volunteer base and the generosity of supporters.

Guided by a vision for a future where people seeking asylum can live safely, sustainably, independently, and equally, the ASRC operates as an Incorporated Association registered in Victoria and is governed by a Board of Directors.

Purpose of the Risk Committee

The Committee's purpose is to support the Board in fulfilling its responsibilities related to internal control, risk management, insurance, and legal compliance. A key role of the Risk Committee is to support and advise the Board regarding the quality and reliability of risk-related information used by the Board.

Key Responsibilities

Independent Thinking

• Exercise sound judgment to ensure the ASRC operates ethically, effectively, prudently, proactively, and consistently in fulfilling its purpose.

Key Areas of Oversight

• Oversee and monitor the ASRC’s risk management framework, ensuring compliance with laws, regulations, and ethical standards and in alignment with the Board’s Risk Appetite.
• Oversee and consider all major non-financial risks.
• In conjunction with the Finance Committee, monitor the annual external audit and proactively
  monitor all non-financial audit findings.
• Oversee and monitor the implementation of strong governance policies and processes related
  to risk management.
• Monitor and advise on emerging issues and trends affecting the ASRC, such as cybersecurity and privacy requirements.
• Oversee the internal reviews/audits and monitor the implementation of findings and actions as relevant.

Governance

• Actively participate in committee performance evaluations.
• Engage constructively in discussions, ask insightful questions, and challenge assumptions where necessary.
• Stay informed on key professional issues impacting the ASRC members and their relevance to Risk Committee matters.

Desired Qualifications, Experience, and Attributes

• Previous experience on a Risk Committee is preferred.
• Strong understanding of corporate governance principles.
• Professional qualification in risk management or law.
• Experience in audit, treasury management, or investment management is highly regarded.
• Commercial acumen and a strategic mindset, particularly in not-for-profit organisations.
• Capability to reflect on own actions and encourage others to do the same, for the purposes of improving the committee process.
• Ability to actively contribute to discussions, offer constructive feedback, listen respectfully, and challenge assumptions when necessary.
• Strong business instincts with the ability to quickly identify core issues.

Role Accountability and Commitment

This role is accountable to the Chair Audit and Risk Committee, and ultimate accountability is to the ASRC Board. This is a volunteer position, and the Committee has four meetings per year. Each meeting is 90 minutes long and is conducted outside of business hours. These meetings are mostly online, but some may be in person.

• Additional meetings and commitment may be required as determined by the Chair in accordance with the agreed work plan.

Internal Training & Other Requirements

• ASRC Volunteer Induction
• Volunteer Agreement
• Solvency Check
•  Police Check
• Working with Children Check
• 6-month review period

Compliance

All forms of employment with ASRC, paid or voluntary, are subject to continued compliance with our Child Safety and Reporting Policy. All or any breaches to this policy may result in disciplinary action being taken and/or the cessation of the employment contract or volunteer agreements. All offers of employment, paid or voluntary, are subject to a satisfactory Criminal History Check and provision of a valid Working with Children Check prior to commencement.

About Us

The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is the largest aid, employment, health, and advocacy organisation for people seeking asylum in Australia. The ASRC provides a range of direct services as well as participating in law reform, campaigning, and lobbying. 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, and Collaborative.

If you would like more information, you can contact Melanie Sherrin via email on [email protected] using the subject line: Independent Member (Voluntary) - Risk Committee enquiry via EthicalJobs or phone on 0412 219 018.