About Australian Democracy Network

Founded in 2020, Australian Democracy Network brings people and organisations together to campaign for the changes that make our democracy more fair, clean, transparent, accountable, accessible, and participatory. Together, we are creating a healthy Australian democracy which puts people and planet first. Our work is collaborative because it takes collective power to win systems change.

Key achievements include

• mobilising 13,000 people for the "integrity election,"
• forming the Stronger Charities Alliance,
• and launching national campaigns on protest rights and lobbying reform.

Australian Democracy Network continues to push for systemic changes to improve Australia's democracy and civil society’s ability to advocate for change.

The Board Chair holds a key leadership role, ensuring the board functions efficiently and effectively in support of our mission. The Chair will facilitate board meetings, foster strong governance practices, and maintain a collaborative relationship with the Executive Director (ED) and leadership team.

The Chair will provide strategic oversight, ensure legal and ethical standards are met, and work closely with other directors to develop and drive our strategic vision.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Governance:

• Chair bi-monthly board meetings, ensuring engagement and productive discussions among directors.
• Provide leadership and direction to the board, ensuring good governance and the adoption of best practices.
• Lead the board in developing and overseeing the implementation of our strategic vision.
• Ensure the board meets its legal responsibilities as a not-for-profit charity and complies with governance standards.

Executive Director Management:

• Directly manage the Executive Director, offering ongoing guidance and support in executing the organisation's mission.
• Lead the ED’s annual performance review, providing constructive feedback and setting performance goals.
• Foster a collaborative relationship with the ED, assisting with decision-making, strategy, and operational matters as needed.

Strategic Oversight & Planning:

• Facilitate the annual strategic planning session with the board, ensuring alignment with our vision and goals.
• Guide the development and implementation of our strategic plans and ensure they are effectively executed.
• Support the organisation’s long-term sustainability through risk management, financial oversight, and strategic fundraising efforts.

Board Development & Culture:

• Engage board directors, ensuring they contribute effectively to the organisation’s mission and objectives.
• Build and foster a positive and collaborative board culture, supporting directors in their roles and encouraging open dialogue. Lead efforts to recruit, mentor, and support new board members to ensure the board’s diversity of skills and perspectives.

Relationship Management & Ambassadorship:

• Act as an ambassador for Australian Democracy Network, building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, funders, and the broader community.
• Maintain an open and collaborative relationship with board members and staff, offering guidance when critical decisions arise between meetings.

Skills and Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in leadership roles, ideally within not-for-profit governance or a similar context.
• Strong understanding of NFP governance practices, financial oversight, and risk management.
• Expertise in one or more of the following areas: governance, fundraising or strategy.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to foster a positive and collaborative board culture.
• A commitment to Australian Democracy Network's mission and values, including a passion for democracy and advocacy.

Location: Remote

Time Commitment: Bi-monthly board meetings (2 hours a month), ad-hoc support outside meetings (3 hours a month), attend fundraising events (12 hours a year) annual in-person strategic planning session once a year.

A position description is attached.