Why Governance, Why Young Leaders

The challenges we are facing in the Aged Care and Community sectors today are not unique, yet they are unprecedented for their time – reduced funding, external competition, changing legislation, higher accreditation standards, new and diverse care needs; and improved services and outcomes with unchanging resources, are but a few of them. We need strong and effective “leadership at the top” and governance to succeed in these challenges.

The knowledge, experience and voluntary contribution of established Board leaders is steering us through these times. However, we also need the leadership of change – to inspire and invite the new and different perspectives, solutions, networks, cultures and energy of people who are not yet in the Boardroom – talented, diverse young people (under 40 years old) who have raw leadership quality and potential, business and professional excellence, an aptitude for innovation; and the desire to make a unique difference in the community.

With only 12% of publicly listed Board Members being under 40 years of age (Read about it in our White Paper), young people’s voices are yet to be adequately represented in the Boardroom. The reasons are many and include lack of inclusion and opportunities, no Board experience; and less business experience, affiliation and influence.

We are proud that 46 community organisations (Community Partners), and some of WA’s most senior community leaders are championing the case for young leaders to come into our Boardrooms. The investment they are making is for a generation – for not only will these young leaders be the visionaries of today, but the leadership foundation of tomorrow.

At the beginning of 2021, Community Partners have sponsored 180 scholarships (over 8 years) for the Emerging Leaders in Governance Program inviting some of Australia’s most talented young professionals to commence their leadership and governance journey.

White paper  – The Business Case for Age Diversity of Boards