Help shape the future of lifelong learning in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven.
You have the opportunity to contribute your governance expertise to an organisation that has been changing lives through education since 1913. As a Director of the WEA Co Board, with the potential to take on the role of Chair, you'll help guide the strategic direction of a respected not-for-profit community education provider and Special Assistance School, serving learners across all stages of life.
Volunteer Position (Unpaid)
Approved expenses and governance training and development costs may be reimbursed in accordance with Board policy.
Who this role is for
This opportunity is suited to experienced leaders, board directors, executives or governance professionals who are passionate about education, community impact and strong organisational stewardship. It is ideal for candidates who have previous board experience and the capacity and motivation to undertake the additional leadership responsibilities associated with the role of Chair.
What the role looks like
As a volunteer Director, you'll contribute to the strategic governance and oversight of WEA Co, helping ensure the organisation remains sustainable, compliant and focused on delivering meaningful outcomes for learners and communities.
The Board is responsible for setting strategic direction, overseeing organisational performance, managing risk, ensuring financial sustainability and supporting compliance across WEA Co's operations as a registered charity, Registered Training Organisation and registered non-government secondary school. Directors actively participate in Board discussions, review governance and performance information, contribute to strategic decision making, and support stakeholder engagement and organisational growth.
The successful candidate will be appointed as a Director for a three-year term, with the Board intending to elect that Director to the position of Chair for an initial one-year term. As Chair, you will lead Board meetings, support Board effectiveness and succession planning, foster productive relationships between Directors and management, and act as the primary governance liaison with the Chief Executive Officer.
Board and Chair responsibilities require participation in meetings and governance activities, including in-person involvement across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions.
Who you'll be working with
You'll join a committed Board of Directors working alongside the Chief Executive Officer, executive leadership team and key stakeholders to advance WEA Co's vision of connected and thriving communities of lifelong learners.
WEA Co operates both The Community College and Novo Education, providing inclusive learning opportunities for adults, young people and community members across the region. Through your governance leadership, you'll help ensure the organisation continues to create accessible pathways to education, employment, personal growth and community participation for people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.
Who we're looking for
We're looking for someone with strong governance capability, strategic thinking and leadership experience. Previous board and governance leadership experience is essential, particularly where you've guided organisations through growth, change, compliance obligations or complex stakeholder environments.
Experience within school education, vocational education and training, community services, not-for-profit organisations, social impact initiatives or other regulated sectors will be highly regarded, but we also welcome candidates who bring transferable governance and leadership expertise from other industries.
What you'll bring
You're an experienced and thoughtful leader who can balance strategic thinking with sound judgement and collaboration. You understand the importance of good governance, are comfortable analysing complex information and financial reports, and can contribute to robust but respectful discussion that supports effective decision-making.
You bring integrity, emotional intelligence and a genuine commitment to educational opportunity and community wellbeing. You have the confidence to ask questions, challenge constructively and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders while always acting in the best interests of the organisation.
Essential requirements
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Experience serving as a Director, board or Committee Chair, or in another governance leadership capacity.
- Demonstrated strategic thinking and governance capability.
- Financial literacy, including the ability to interpret financial statements, budgets and reports.
- Experience with risk management, compliance or organisational oversight.
- Understanding of governance principles and director responsibilities.
- Capacity and willingness to undertake the responsibilities associated with the Chair role.
- Ability to participate in Board and Chair activities in person across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions.
- Current Director Identification Number (DIN).
- Current NSW Working With Children Check (Volunteer or Employee).
- Ability to satisfy Fit and Proper Person requirements for ASQA and NESA and conflict of interest requirements.
Candidates will be highly regarded if they have experience in, or understanding of, the adult and community education, VET, or school sectors, alternative education settings, or pathways that support economic and social participation and lifelong learning for vulnerable people or those living with disadvantage.
Why join WEA Co
WEA Co has been opening doors to education since 1913, creating opportunities for people to learn, grow and connect with their communities.
This is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a purpose-driven organisation while expanding your governance leadership experience. You'll work alongside a skilled and committed Board, contribute to decisions that shape educational opportunities throughout the region, and help guide the future direction of an organisation with a proud history and strong community impact.
The role also provides valuable experience in Board leadership, governance in highly regulated education environments, strategic oversight and stakeholder engagement, while offering the personal reward of contributing to an organisation that empowers learners and strengthens communities.
How to apply
Apply directly through our People Hub (powered by Employment Hero) by clicking Apply Now and completing the application process.
For access to the full Position Description please scroll down, and for more about WEA Co as an organisation, download our Information Pack (https://weaillawarra.csassurance.com/refdoc_atts/23)
Please provide:
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Your CV
- A short cover letter outlining your governance and leadership experience and why you're interested in joining the WEA Co Board and serving as Chair
- Responses to the selection criteria as requested throughout the application portal.
Applications close 11.59pm, Sunday 20 September 2026.
Contact for confidential discussion
For a confidential discussion about the role, Position Description or process before applying please contact:
Louisa Raft
Company Secretary
Mobile: 0466 656 079
Email: [email protected]
WEA Co is committed to equity, inclusion and creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
WEA Co is a not-for-profit helping people of all ages access learning, build skills, and connect. In 1913, education was out of reach for many working adults in the Illawarra. WEA Co began to change that, offering workers’ education classes that built knowledge, skills, and a sense of possibility. It was the start of our mission to make learning accessible to everyone, no matter their circumstances. As our community changed, so did the needs of adult learners. Many people sought skills to adapt to new industries, grow in their careers, or connect socially. The Community College evolved to meet those needs, providing affordable, inclusive courses in workplace skills, digital literacy, and creative learning. For decades, it has been a place where adults can gain confidence, independence, and a stronger connection to their community. Some young people in our region find that mainstream schooling does not work for them, often because of life circumstances beyond their control. Novo Education was created to give these students in Years 9–12 a safe, understanding place to re-engage with learning. Small classes, one-on-one mentoring, and a trauma-informed approach help them rebuild confidence, set goals, and take steps toward a future they can see for themselves.
