Advisory Council

The Equitable Philanthropy Advisory Council comprises a distinguished group of leaders from the nonprofit sector, including CEOs of influential organisations, heads of foundations, and industry experts. This council serves as a vital resource, offering strategic advice and insights that inform our approaches to fundraising and philanthropy.

Key Responsibilities

  • Strategic Guidance.

     Members share their expertise to help shape our business strategies and initiatives, ensuring alignment with industry best practices.

  • Networking Opportunities.

     Council members facilitate connections with key stakeholders, enhancing our outreach and impact within the sector and beyond.

  • Thought Leadership.

     By leveraging their knowledge, the council drives innovation and helps us navigate emerging trends in fundraising and philanthropy to best position our clients.

  • Evaluation and Feedback.

     Members provide constructive feedback on our programs and services, helping us refine our offerings and advance our

Advisory Council Members

  • Gill Whelan

    Decjuba Foundation and TANK Foundation

  • Peta Christie

    Director of Social Impact, Cooper Family Office

  • Laura Cochrane

    Philanthropic Strategist, previously head of NAB Foundation and Bennelong Foundation

  • Mandy Burns

    CEO, CF Together, former CEO of Variety Victoria and Ardoch Foundation

  • Serge Sardo

    CEO of Better Place Australia

  • Brad Macdonald

    Head of Philanthropy and Festival Development for Melbourne International Film Festival and Member Board of Directors of Chunky Move

  • Adele Stowe-Lindner

    General Manager, Institute of Community Directors Australia, Our Community

  • Michelle Crawford

    CEO, Specialisterne, Member Board of Directors, First Nations Foundation

Catherine Brooks,
CEO, Equitable Philanthropy

“On behalf of Equitable Philanthropy, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each member of our Advisory Council for your invaluable contributions. Your insights, dedication, and expertise have been instrumental in shaping our mission and driving meaningful impact in the philanthropic sector. Your commitment to collaboration and innovation inspires us to continue empowering leaders and organisations to create lasting change. Thank you for being an integral part of this journey.”

Differentiated for Impact

  • Relationships.

    Relationship driven philanthropy – Catherine Brooks, CEO of Equitable Philanthropy, has over two decades of experience in the Not for Profit sector, with unparallel connections with funders, industry leaders and peers.

  • Engagement.

    Deeply engaged, highly experienced advisory council - serves as a vital resource, offering strategic advice and insights that inform our approaches to fundraising and philanthropy.

  • Access.

    Access to thought leaders across the philanthropic sector – including a direct conduit to Institute of Community Directors Australia, Our Community, and also key financial institutions and industry groups.

  • Education.

    Capacity Accelerator Program upskills the sector via training and coaching of CEOs and Boards and assists funders identify top charity partners that align with giving strategies.