WAAMH CEO to step down

After five years at the helm of WA’s peak body for community mental health, Rod Astbury has given notice of his intention to step down as Chief Executive Officer of the Western Australian Association for Mental Health (WAAMH) at the end of the year.

During this time, Rod has led the organisation through substantial growth and change, which has included securing important advocacy commitments for the sector, expanding the range of services WAAMH offers both members and the community, and raising the profile and reach of WAAMH’s mental health promotion activities.

Throughout this period Rod’s commitment to lived experience leadership has ensured both the continuation of WAAMH’s strong grassroots values base while also driving innovation within WAAMH and the broader sector. He has also provided strong leadership in expanding WAAMH’s presence on the national stage through delivery of several projects of national importance in collaboration with organisations across Australia.

Having just completed a new strategic plan, WAAMH is in a strong position to continue to lead advocacy for improved public policy and human rights for people experiencing mental health challenges, their families and carers, and provide effective mental health promotion, development and training. Rod has led a dedicated team and played an integral role in ensuring the ongoing success of the organisation into the future.

The WAAMH Board will shortly commence a recruitment process to ensure a smooth transition to a new CEO at the end of 2017.

We thank Rod for his five years of service and wish him every success for the future.

The Board of the Western Australian Association for Mental Health