Company Description Shimmer & Whimsy Village is an emerging Australian charitable organization creating a new approach to housing, community, and long-term support for people rebuilding their lives.

The organization’s vision is to bridge the gap between crisis intervention and independent living through protected, supportive communities that offer stability, resources, and opportunities for growth.

Its Village model integrates accessible housing, shared meals, food security, gardens, animals, practical learning, employment pathways, intergenerational connection, and personal development.

Guided by a philosophy of high support and low control, Shimmer & Whimsy Village prioritizes dignity, autonomy, belonging, and meaningful lives.

With extensive groundwork already completed in design, governance, safeguarding, workforce development, and infrastructure planning, the organization is now focused on building strong governance, partnerships, and funding to launch its first Village and scale the model across Australia.

Role Description The Board Member role is a volunteer, off-site position based in Sebastopol, VIC.

Board

Members will provide strategic oversight, contribute to governance frameworks, and support the development of policies that align with the organization’s mission and values.

They will participate in regular board meetings, review organizational performance and risk, and work closely with the leadership team on planning, compliance, and accountability. Day-to-day responsibilities include engaging with key stakeholders,



supporting fundraising and partnership initiatives, and championing the Village model within the community and relevant networks.

Board

Members will collaborate with fellow directors to ensure ethical decision-making, sustainable growth, and strong stewardship of resources in service of long-term impact.

Qualifications

- Experience in governance and leadership, including board or committee participation, strategic planning, and oversight of organizational performance.
- Background in nonprofit, social services, community development, or social enterprise, with an understanding of charitable structures and regulatory requirements.
- Skills in financial literacy and risk management, such as reading financial statements, contributing to budgets, and supporting sustainable funding strategies.
- Stakeholder engagement and relationship-building capabilities, including collaboration with community members, partners, donors, and government or sector bodies.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to listen, negotiate, advocate, and work constructively within a diverse board.
- Commitment to values of dignity, autonomy, inclusion, and trauma-informed, person-centered approaches to support and housing.
- Ability to dedicate consistent time and attention to board duties, on-site presence in Sebastopol, VIC, and active participation in meetings and committees.
- Relevant qualifications in fields such as community services, social work, business, law, governance, finance, or related disciplines are highly beneficial.

📌 Board Member (Ballarat)
🏢 Shimmer and Whimsy Village
📍 Ballarat