Communicare is seeking an experienced Chair of the Board of Directors to provide strategic leadership, governance oversight, and organisational stewardship.

Who Are We?

Founded in 1977, Communicare has a long-standing history of supporting communities and remains committed to delivering high-quality, people-focused services. In May 2020, we became the custodian of White Ribbon Australia, further expanding our national footprint.

As a values-driven organisation, we are dedicated to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion—principles that are deeply embedded in our governance and strategic plan. While we have evolved over the past 45 years, our core values—Everyone is Welcome, Doing What We Say, Above and Beyond, and Stronger Together remain at the very heart of everything we do.

Joining Communicare’s Board presents a unique opportunity to contribute to an organisation with a strong culture of collaboration, ethical leadership, and social impact.

Learn more about us at www.communicare.org.au or connect with us on social media.

The role:

As Chair of the Board of Directors, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the Board effectively fulfils its fiduciary, legal, and ethical responsibilities while advancing the organisation’s vision, purpose, and long-term success.

Working closely with the CEO, Board members, and key stakeholders, you will lead strategic initiatives, uphold financial integrity, and cultivate a culture of accountability, innovation, and strong governance.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s vision, purpose, and strategic objectives.
• Championing governance best practices, ensuring the Board operates effectively and upholds its ethical, legal, and fiduciary responsibilities.
• Chairing Board meetings, ensuring they are well-structured, productive, and aligned with organisational priorities.
• Collaborating with the CEO and committee chairs to develop meeting agendas that drive strategic discussions and decision-making.
• Serving as the primary liaison between the Board and the CEO, fostering a strong, collaborative working relationship.
• Advocating for the organisation and its strategic priorities in public and private forums.
• Providing strategic oversight of the organisation’s financial integrity and long-term sustainability.

The Chair position is a paid role, with remuneration to be discussed with shortlisted candidates. Salary Packaging options are available.

The Chair will be expected to attend and lead approximately 6 Board meetings per year, as well as occasional subcommittee meetings and events. Additional time may be required for preparation and engagement outside of formal meetings.

Selection Criteria

• Extensive executive leadership experience in corporate, nonprofit, or government settings.
• Previous experience serving on a Board of Directors with a strong understanding of governance and fiduciary responsibilities.
• Experience in leading and developing high-performing teams, particularly in a governance capacity.
• Experience overseeing organisational risk management, compliance, and legal considerations.
• Proven ability to manage relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, corporate partners and community organisations.
• Strong understanding of nonprofit or corporate governance principles, including legal and fiduciary responsibilities.
• Skilled in facilitating meetings, consensus-building, and decision-making at a leadership level.
• Ability to navigate complex organisational challenges and provide strategic solutions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking and advocacy.
• Strong ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including board members, executives, funding bodies, and governments.
• Experience in media relations and public representation.
• Strong understanding of financial statements, budgeting, audits, and financial sustainability practices.
• Strong understanding of risk management, compliance, and ethical considerations.
• Demonstrated commitment to reconciliation.
• Satisfactory Police clearance (not older than 6 months from the issue date)

How to Apply

Click Apply Now to submit your application by no later than the closing date. 

For more information, please contact Merinda March, Chief Executive Officer, on (08) 9251 5777.

Communicare encourage applications from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds, people who identify as LGBTQI+ and people living with disabilities.

Short listing will commence immediately. We reserve the right to close the position without notice. Unsolicited resumes and contact from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.