- Advocate for system reforms that improve mental health and enable the mental health sector to thrive
- Unite and strengthen the mental health sector
- Develop and advocate for practical policy solutions
The Position
Mental Health Australia (MHA) is seeking a Board Appointed Director to take on the role of Chair who can devote the time and be committed to this important health leadership position. For over 25 years Mental Health Australia has advocated for mental health reform and continues to drive policy changes and proactively puts mental health on the agenda.
The Board is seeking to appoint an individual to steer Mental Health Australia through its next strategic plan which has two key pillars; driving better mental health policies and systems, and uniting and strengthening the mental health sector.
The Chair will foster the ongoing development and management of strategic relationships, networking with an extensive range of stakeholder groups and advocacy at the highest levels within the health and Government sectors.
A key consideration for this role will be the individual’s personal background, credentials and exemplary reputation. While subject matter expertise in mental health will be highly regarded, suitable individuals from a legal, finance, public sector or general business background who can demonstrate a strong affinity for the sector will also be considered. Strong existing relationships and networks with relevant external stakeholders in the Government sector are highly desirable.
Essential Criteria
We are looking for an experienced Board Director with a demonstrated understanding of the strategic, fiduciary and governance responsibilities associated with chairing the Board of a not-for-profit charity with the following skillset, networks and experience:
- Deep understanding of Federal Government processes, decision making and policy development with current relationships and networks, particularly with the Department of Health and Aged Care (DoHAC) as well as the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C)
- Solid experience as a Board Director and/or Chair
- Strong governance knowledge
- An understanding of revenue diversification with connections to support potential diversification opportunities
- Bipartisan approach
- Awareness and understanding of mental health
Desirable, not essential, attributes for the Chair role include legal expertise, strong media connections, and lived experience of mental ill-health.
This appointment is for three years in the first instance.
The Organisation
Mental Health Australia has over 140 members, including service providers, professional bodies, organisations representing people with mental ill-health, family, carers and supporters, researchers and state and territory mental health peak bodies.
As the national peak for mental health, Mental Health Australia unites the mental health sector to present a cohesive voice to government, and provide practical policy solutions to influence decision-making, which in turn, improves the mental health system and the mental health of people in Australia. Mental Health Australia works to strengthen the impact and influence of the mental health sector and embed a human rights approach across the mental health system.
The views and expertise of people with lived and living experience of mental ill-health, family, carers and supporters, along with member organisations, underpins Mental Health Australia’s work. By bringing together diverse perspectives across Mental Health Australia’s members, the community and governments, Mental Health Australia will create greater change and more innovative solutions, than what any of us could do working alone.
For more information about Mental Health Australia visit: https://mhaustralia.org/
To Apply
Please click the ‘APPLY NOW’ button, using reference MHAbch0924.
Address your cover letter and resume to Kate Wheeler of Future Leadership, or call 1300 347 437 for further information.
