Express an Interest

Targeting:

Community Gardens Australia

Help Lead Australia's Community Gardening Movement

Community Gardens Australia (CGA) is the national peak body supporting community gardens across Australia. We connect, support and advocate for hundreds of community gardens that strengthen local food systems, community wellbeing, environmental sustainability and social connection.

As CGA continues to grow, we are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Board Chair to help guide the organisation's future and strengthen our national impact.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a passionate volunteer Board and contribute to a movement that is helping communities across Australia become more connected, resilient and sustainable.

About the Role

The Board Chair provides leadership to Community Gardens Australia, working closely with the Board, Treasurer, volunteers and contractors to ensure the organisation remains well governed, financially sustainable and strategically focused.

As Chair, you will help shape CGA's future direction, support the implementation of its strategic priorities, strengthen partnerships, and champion the vital role community gardens play in creating healthier, more connected communities.

We are looking for someone who understands the realities of volunteer-led organisations and can bring both strong governance experience and a collaborative leadership style.

We Are Looking For Someone Who Has:

• Significant experience in a community, not-for-profit, governance or leadership role
• Experience serving as a Non-Executive Director
• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills
• Financial literacy and an understanding of not-for-profit governance and financial oversight
• Excellent communication, facilitation and relationship-building skills
• The ability to foster collaboration, shared leadership and positive organisational culture
• A commitment to volunteerism and supporting volunteer-led organisations

Highly Desirable

• Previous experience as a Board Chair
• Experience leading organisations through periods of growth and change
• Experience securing grants, sponsorships, partnerships or other funding opportunities
• Experience in community development, environmental sustainability, urban agriculture or food systems
• An established network that may support CGA's future growth and sustainability

What You'll Gain

• A national leadership role within Australia's peak community gardening organisation
• The opportunity to help shape the future of a growing organisation
• The chance to work alongside passionate volunteers and sector leaders from across Australia
• Professional development opportunities in governance and not-for-profit leadership
• The satisfaction of helping strengthen community resilience, local food security and environmental sustainability nationwide

Time Commitment

This is a voluntary, unpaid position.

• Approximately 3–5 hours per week
• Monthly online Board meetings
• Attendance at a minimum of 80% of Board meetings
• Participation in the Annual General Meeting
• Preferred commitment of two years, although shorter terms may be considered for the right candidate

All CGA positions are undertaken remotely, with communication occurring primarily via email, phone and video conferencing. The Chair will be required to provide their own computer and internet access.

How to Apply

Please submit:

• A short cover letter outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience
• A current CV summarising your governance and leadership experience
• A link to your LinkedIn profile (if applicable)

Send applications to:

naomi.lacey@communitygarden.org.au

Applications close: 29 July 2026

Community Gardens Australia is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive organisation where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, and people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. We believe diverse perspectives strengthen our organisation and our impact.

Duty Statement: Australia