The Observership Program is in my opinion an outstanding way for the future directors of all levels of Australian business to gain experience in what to do and indeed what not to do around the board table.”David Gonski AC (Patron, The Observership Program)
OBSERVERSHIP
PROGRAM
OUR VISION
Founded in 2014 and modelled on a similar successful program in the United States, The Observership Program provides training and practical experience in not-for-profit and government appointed board leadership and ongoing networking opportunities to create a passionate and motivated community of future leaders.
The Program is a way to connect talented emerging leaders and the not-for-profit community in a structured and meaningful way."
Jonathan Gavshon, Founder and Chair, The Observership Program
The Observership Program facilitates the involvement of young, talented and energetic individuals in a structured experience on non-profit and government appointed Boards. Each Observer is paired with an organisation for a 12-month period. During that time, Observers attend all board and/or committee meetings as non-voting members and learn about fundamental principles and functions of not- for-profit boards, the roles of board members, fiscal processes and other governance priorities. The Program provides Observers with first-hand exposure to the role of the board, its decision-making and operations as well as targeted training and mentorship designed to give Observers important skills to bring to the boardroom.
TESTIMONIALS
Alvaro Rodas Fernandez, 2019 Observer
The Observership Program is a fantastic opportunity to learn about the role and responsibilities of a NFP Board member, plus an excellent training course and chances to network with extremely interesting and well-connected people.”
Alvaro joined the Media Diversity Australia board following his Observership year.
The Observership Program is a fantastic opportunity to learn about the role and responsibilities of a NFP Board member, plus an excellent training course and chances to network with extremely interesting and well-connected people.”
Alvaro joined the Media Diversity Australia board following his Observership year.
Blayne Welsh, 2018 Observer
As an Wailwan and Kamilaroi man concerned about the need for Indigenous representation in the board room of our organisations, the Observership program gave me the foundational knowledge I need to be comfortable stepping up into these much needed roles. It’s been as beneficial to me as it has been to our organisations. I implore our future leaders and community organisations to use this valuable program and secure the future of Indigenous organisations run by our communities, for our communities.:
Blayne joined The Ilbijerri Theatre Board following his Observership year.
As an Wailwan and Kamilaroi man concerned about the need for Indigenous representation in the board room of our organisations, the Observership program gave me the foundational knowledge I need to be comfortable stepping up into these much needed roles. It’s been as beneficial to me as it has been to our organisations. I implore our future leaders and community organisations to use this valuable program and secure the future of Indigenous organisations run by our communities, for our communities.:
Blayne joined The Ilbijerri Theatre Board following his Observership year.
KEY DATES
2025 PROGRAM
APPLICATIONS CLOSED
Closed
31 JULY 2024
| DATE | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| 01/07/2024 | Applications open for 2025 Program |
| 31/07/2024 | Applications Close for 2025 Program |
2026 PROGRAM
DATES TO BE RELEASED FEB 2025
TBC 2025
| DATE | DESCRIPTION |
|---|
MEET OUR
PARTNERS
IN THE MEDIA
If your board wants fresh ideas and digital skills, the answer must be yes. A new generation of millennial directors talks about the challenges they face and the issues they consider important.