Caritas Australia has welcomed Carolyn Ireland as its new board chair and announced the appointment of two new non-executive directors, Nicki Patten and Rick Brennan, effective November 30.
Robert Fitzgerald steps down after six years as board chair, having been appointed in 2020 as Caritas Australia’s first lay leader and inaugural company chair, stewarding the organisation through new governance arrangements and a significant period of renewal.
His appointment as chair built on a longstanding connection with Caritas Australia, having previously served on its national council in the early 1990s. His tenure spanned the COVID-19 pandemic and major shifts in the global development and humanitarian landscape.
Caritas chief executive Kirsten Sayers thanked Mr Fitzgerald for his contribution, saying: “Robert has brought wisdom, integrity and a deep commitment to human dignity and the social mission of the Church to his leadership.
“He has guided us through a significant period of renewal while keeping us focused on why we are here: to stand with communities facing poverty, injustice and crisis as they lead their own change.”
Mr Fitzgerald reflected on his time as chair, saying: “Caritas is a practical expression of the Church’s commitment to human dignity, solidarity and justice, connecting Catholic communities in Australia with communities around the world.
“This work has never been more important in a world beset by rising conflict and inequality. I am proud of what we have achieved together, and I know the organisation will be in excellent hands with Carolyn as it enters its next chapter.”
Incoming chair Ms Ireland joined the Caritas Australia Board in 2025 and brings extensive governance and executive experience across finance, investment and organisational transformation, alongside significant board leadership experience in faith-based organisations including Mercy Health, Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools and the International Women’s Development Agency.
“It is an honour to be appointed chair and to build on the strong foundation Robert has established,” Ms Ireland said.
“At the heart of our mission is a belief in the dignity of every person and the capacity of communities to lead their own change. I look forward to working with Kirsten, the board, the bishops and the wider Catholic community to continue putting that mission into action.”
The leadership transition coincides with the appointment of Nicki Patten and Rick Brennan as non-executive directors, strengthening the board’s experience across governance, Catholic institutions, international development, humanitarian response and public health.
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Caritas Australia welcomes new Chair and Board appointments (Caritas Australia)
