Express an Interest

Targeting:
Females, People with Disabilities, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander, English as an additional language or dialect

Volunteer Director Role – Supporting Learning with Needs Foundation

Organisational Background

Supporting Learning with Needs Foundation is a new charity and not-for-profit company located in Derrimut in the heart of Melbourne's western suburbs. Our purpose is to advance the health, wellbeing, and development of children and young people with additional needs through education, therapy, community support, and evidence-based programs. We aim to reduce disadvantage, promote inclusion, and collaborate with families and professionals to create thriving environments.

Role Overview

We are seeking volunteer Directors to join our Board and help guide the strategic direction and governance of the Foundation. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families in our community.

• Commitment: A few hours quarterly (weekday evenings), plus occasional email approvals.
• Term: Two years, renewable (maximum 10 consecutive years unless extended by members).
• Location: Meetings held in Deer Park, Victoria, or via virtual platform.

Key Duties

Directors are responsible for:

• Governance & Compliance
  • Ensure compliance with the ACNC Governance Standards and Corporations Act.
  • Uphold the Foundation’s charitable purpose and not-for-profit principles.
• Strategic Oversight
  • Contribute to setting and monitoring strategic goals.
  • Approve major policies and budgets.
• Financial Stewardship
  • Oversee responsible financial management and sustainability.
• Risk & Accountability
  • Identify and manage risks.
  • Ensure transparency and accountability to members and stakeholders.
• Advocacy & Networking
  • Promote the Foundation’s mission in the community.
  • Build partnerships and support fundraising initiatives.
• Board Participation
  • Attend quarterly board meetings and participate in decision-making.
  • Review board papers and contribute to discussions.

Skills & Experience Needed

• Essential
  • Understanding of governance and fiduciary duties.
  • Ability to act in good faith and in the best interests of the charity.
  • Strong communication and collaborative skills.
• Desirable
  • Experience in one or more of:
    • Allied health, education, disability services, or child development.
    • Finance, legal, risk management, or compliance.
    • Community engagement or fundraising.
  • Previous board or committee experience (not mandatory).
• Must be:
  • Over 18 years old.
  • Eligible under the Corporations Act and ACNC Act.
  • Able to obtain a Director Identification Number.
  • Willing to provide signed consent to act as a director.

Benefits of Volunteering

• Make a tangible difference in the lives of children with additional needs.
• Gain board-level experience and develop governance skills.
• Expand your professional network in health, education, and community sectors.
• Contribute to strategic decisions that shape inclusive programs and services.

Impact of Your Contribution

Your leadership will:

• Strengthen governance and sustainability of the Foundation.
• Enable delivery of programs that reduce disadvantage and promote inclusion.
• Help create thriving, resilient environments for children and families.

Application Process

• Step 1: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) outlining your skills and motivation.
• Step 2: Provide a current CV and confirm eligibility (including ability to obtain Director ID).
• Step 3: Attend an informal discussion with the Chairperson.
• Step 4: Board nomination and member approval.