Leadership & Governance
Meet the dedicated leaders who guide our mission and ensure responsible stewardship of our organisation in accordance with Australian charity law.
Board of Directors
Lisa Hateley
Founder & CEO
Introducing Lisa Hately, who has lived experience of domestic and family violence, and supporting many friends through it. Lisa decided enough is enough, and it was time to start an organisation that educated women on healthy relationships and how to identify narcissistic behaviour.
Deakin University
Dr. Jennifer Chen
Vice Chair
Dr. Chen is a clinical psychologist specialising in trauma therapy. She brings expertise in evidence-based treatment approaches for survivors of domestic violence.
PhD Psychology, State University
Maria Rodriguez
Secretary
Maria is a community advocate and nonprofit management professional. She has dedicated her career to advancing women's rights and social justice causes.
MBA Nonprofit Management
David Thompson
Treasurer
David is a CPA with extensive experience in nonprofit financial management. He ensures fiscal responsibility and transparent financial practices.
CPA, Masters in Accounting
Dr. Aisha Patel
Board Member
Dr. Patel is a researcher and professor specialising in gender studies and domestic violence prevention. She brings academic expertise to our evidence-based programs.
PhD Gender Studies
Michael Johnson
Board Member
Michael is a retired law enforcement officer who specialised in domestic violence cases. He advocates for improved police response and community partnerships.
Criminal Justice, Police Academy
Governance Structure
Board of Directors
Our Board provides strategic oversight, ensures financial accountability, and guides organisational direction in compliance with the Corporations Act 2001 and ACNC Act 2012. Board members serve three-year terms and meet quarterly.
Executive Committee
Composed of Board officers, the Executive Committee handles urgent matters between Board meetings and provides guidance to staff leadership.
Advisory Council
Survivors, community members, and subject matter experts who provide input on programs, policies, and community needs.
Committees
Finance Committee
Oversees budget planning, financial reporting, and audit processes.
Program Committee
Reviews and evaluates program effectiveness and community impact.
Development Committee
Focuses on fundraising strategy and donor stewardship.
Governance Committee
Handles Board recruitment, orientation, and policy development.
ACNC Governance Standards Compliance
- Purposes and Not-for-profit Nature (Standard 1)
- Accountability to Members (Standard 2)
- Compliance with Australian Laws (Standard 3)
- Suitability of Responsible Persons (Standard 4)
- Duties of Responsible Persons (Standard 5)
- Maintaining and Enhancing Public Trust (Standard 6)
- Transparency and Accountability (Standard 7)
Transparency & Accountability
Annual Reports
Detailed annual reports available showing program outcomes, financial stewardship, and community impact.
Financial Transparency
Annual audited financial statements and IRS Form 990 are publicly available and posted on our website.
ACNC Registration
Registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and holds Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status.