About Empower Autism
Empower Autism is an Autistic-led organisation committed to creating a world where Autistic people are understood, respected, included and empowered to live meaningful lives on their own terms.
Empower Autism centres Autistic voices, leadership and lived experience in its governance, service delivery, programs and organisational decision-making. The organisation is committed to challenging outdated assumptions about autism and supporting greater understanding, inclusion, choice and self-determination for Autistic people and their families.
About the opportuntity
As a member of the Board, the Non-Executive Director will help shape Empower Autism’s strategic direction, strengthen its governance and support its long-term sustainability.
We are looking for someone who can bring financial insight and a practical understanding of governance, risk and organisational sustainability.
Working alongside the Co-Chairs, CEO and fellow Directors, this person will help support sound financial governance, appropriate controls, clear reporting and a sustainable financial future.
Autistic people are strongly encouraged to apply.
Familiarity with neurodiversity-affirming practice and contemporary approaches to autism would be welcomed, and we also value a genuine willingness to listen and learn.
As a Non-Executive Director, you will have the opportunity to
- Help shape Empower Autism’s strategic direction, performance and long-term sustainability.
- Contribute to the shared duties and responsibilities of the Board in line with the organisation’s legal structure.
- Bring independent judgement and keep the best interests of Empower Autism and the people it serves at the centre of decision-making.
- Actively contribute to Board discussions, decisions and strategic planning.
- Contribute to oversight of organisational risk, compliance, governance and reputation.
- Support ethical, transparent operations that align with Empower Autism’s purpose, governing documents and applicable legislation.
- Help foster an inclusive, respectful and psychologically safe Board culture.
- Support positive relationships with members, funders, government, partners, supporters and other stakeholders.
- Represent and advocate for Empower Autism where appropriate and comfortable.
- Respect confidentiality and use appropriate discretion in relation to Board and organisational matters.
What you will bring
- Experience, and confidence in understanding and interrogating organisational financial information.
- Experience in financial management, accounting, finance, audit, investment, commercial management, business management or a related field.
- An understanding of financial governance and oversight at Board level.
- The ability to interpret financial statements, budgets, cash-flow information and forecasts.
- A genuine connection with Empower Autism’s purpose and commitment to Autistic-led approaches.
Experience welcomed
- professional accounting or financial qualification, such as CPA or equivalent.
- Not-for-profit financial management or governance.
- Familiarity with Australian charity and not-for-profit financial requirements.
- Government or philanthropic funding, or other approaches to diversifying income.
- Experience in a legal setting or familiarity with contract law would be advantageous.
Time commitment
This is a voluntary role. We aim to make participation clear and manageable, with the expected commitment including:
- six regular Board meetings each year;
- preparation and review of Board papers;
- participation in Board strategy and planning activities;
- attendance at the Annual General Meeting;
- reasonable availability between meetings for matters requiring Board input.
How to express your interest
If this chance feels aligned with your experience and values, we would be pleased to hear from you. Please apply on our website, or email
[email protected] with the following:
1. A current CV or Board resume outlining relevant experience; and
2. A brief statement outlining:
- interest in joining the Empower Autism Board;
- relevant financial experience and understanding of Board-level governance; and
- commitment to inclusive governance and Empower Autism's purpose.
📌 Non-Executive Board Director (Brisbane)
🏢 Empower Autism
📍 Brisbane