About the Organisation

Do you want to lead in a vibrant organisation with a proven record of nurturing local creative talent and fostering community expression?

Outloud is a dynamic, intersectional, CALD-focused social impact arts organisation dedicated to creating meaningful, inspiring opportunities for young people in Western Sydney. We specialise in early intervention harm reduction, celebrating strengths and amplifying the voices of socially marginalised youth to foster inclusive social cohesion. Our projects span multiple art forms, including music, theatre, visual arts, audio tours, site-specific works, and film, addressing nationally relevant issues impacting young people in Western Sydney. Our award-winning initiatives are grounded in best practices and evidence-based guidelines, underpinned by a robust theory of change.

At Outloud, we ignite conversations, celebrate diverse identities, and amplify youth voices through art that drives transformative change. We advocate for a responsive, responsible, curious, and caring approach in all our practices, offering sustained support from early engagement to career guidance. We ensure barrier-free access to our projects, all of which are free and inclusive.

A key project is the RESPECT Program: Working with boys aged 10-12, this program teaches singing and songwriting with the lens of addressing and preventing domestic violence. Evaluated by three universities, 98% of participants gain a strong understanding of domestic violence causes and impacts, committing to its prevention (Joseph & Joseph, 2019).

Formerly known as BYDS (Bankstown Youth Development Service), Outloud has been a cornerstone of Western Sydney since 1987, empowering thousands of young people.

Position Description

We are seeking two enthusiastic individuals to join our supportive management committee and contribute to an organisation with a strong community presence and reputation. We currently have vacancies for a general committee member and a treasurer.

As a Management Committee Member, your commitments would include:

• Attending regular management committee meetings (6 per year).
• Participating in sub-committee meetings as needed
• Reviewing and providing feedback on key documents such as grant applications, business plans, and budgets.
• Monitoring, developing, and reviewing strategic plans.
• Participating in strategic workshops as required (1-2 per year).

Treasurer Responsibilities

• Oversee financial administration and advise the Board on financial strategy.
• Provide regular financial reports to the Board, including annual balance sheets and accounts for presentation at the AGM.
• Present financial information clearly and concisely to the Board.
• Ensure the preparation and regular review of budgets and expenditures for Board approval.
• Maintain up-to-date and orderly financial records.
• Offer financial advice to support sound decision-making within the organisation.

Expertise Sought

For our general board member, we are looking for applicants with expertise in the following areas:

• Legal (intellectual property, contract law, arts law) and Governance
• Compliance and Risk Management
• Fundraising, Sponsorship, and Philanthropy
• Public Relations and Communications

For the Treasurer role, expertise is sought in accounting and financial management.

Selection Criteria

Essential:

• Passion and commitment to addressing the strengths and challenges faced by young people in our community.
• Knowledge of good governance and compliance practices.
• Understanding of the goals and principles of community cultural development.
• Comprehensive experience in business management.
• Experience in chairing, facilitating, and leading discussions and meetings.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Availability to actively participate in the management committee, including attending events, meetings, and functions.

Desirable:

• Advocate for community arts and culture.
• Previous experience as a board or management committee member in an arts or non-profit organisation.
• Knowledge and experience in community and organisational capacity building.
• Strong network to provide support and fundraising opportunities.
• Community connections to enhance the organisation’s capacity and support base (e.g., media, education, arts, corporate, political).
• Sound financial literacy and the ability to understand key financial reports.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Time Commitment:

• The Board meets every two months on a weeknight, with occasional special or subcommittee meetings.

Sitting fee:

• Board members can access a sitting fee of $120 per meeting, which can also be donated back to Outloud for a tax deduction.

We hope you are excited about the opportunity to join our management committee and make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people in Western Sydney. Join us at Outloud and be part of a transformative journey in community arts and social impact!