The board of Australian Communities Foundation is sharing the news that, after nine years, our exemplary CEO Maree Sidey is leaving the organisation.

In her time at Australian Communities Foundation, Maree has expertly overseen the organisation’s remarkable growth to become one of the premier providers of philanthropic services in Australia. Our giving community has grown from 200+ funds in 2015 to 600+ funds and foundations in 2024 with annual distributions of more than $30 million to non-profits and community organisations.

During this period, Australian Communities Foundation’s Impact Fund raised more than $9 million for important national policy and advocacy work to create a fairer Australia. Maree led the development of ACF Advisory services to support PAFs, trusts, corporates and other giving entities, along with the creation of Australia’s first philanthropic hub, the Community of Giving in East Melbourne. And she has built a talented team of philanthropy professionals and led an inclusive workplace culture, recognised by Great Place to Work.

After her departure in May, Maree will take up the role of CEO at the national peak body, Philanthropy Australia.

The board, patrons and Australian Communities Foundation team will miss Maree’s strategic nous, leadership, collaborative approach and commitment to creating a fairer Australia. We thank her for nine years of outstanding leadership and wish her every success in the new role leading the sector’s peak organisation.

The recruitment process to appoint Australian Communities Foundation’s next CEO is underway and details can be found here or by contacting Julia Soutter at Odgers Berndston. An interim management structure will be announced very soon.

If you have any queries, please contact us on 03 9412 0412 or send us an email.