Australian Communities Foundation (ACF) is delighted to welcome Chartered Accountant John Palermo to its Board of Directors.
John joins the Board with more than 25 years of experience in public practice, family advisory, corporate accounting, and the for-purpose sector. Based in Perth, John is Director of Palermo Chartered Accountants and Gratia Advisory. He also sits on the Board of the Royal Perth Hospital Research Foundation and is a current Non-Executive Director of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.
Having followed ACF’s work for many years, John says he is excited to join the organisation as it grows nationally.
“ACF is at a pivotal point in its journey. It has a great team that is genuinely motivated and engaged in the strategy, and I’m excited to contribute to the next chapter of growth and impact.”
ACF has a great team that is genuinely motivated and engaged in the strategy, and I’m excited to contribute to the next chapter of growth and impact.
Eventually stepping into the role of Chair of the Finance and Risk Committee, John brings a clear view on where Australian philanthropy sits today, and where it’s headed.
“The philanthropic environment in Australia is still relatively immature when compared to the US or Europe, but I like to think we are on the right path.”
Professional advisors, he says, have an important role to play in accelerating that progress.
“Many accountants and professional advisors are already deeply engaged in the for-purpose sector, whether financially or with their time. We need to do a better job of recognising and promoting that contribution so it inspires others to get involved.”
That progress is being accelerated further by Australia’s largest-ever intergenerational wealth transfer, which John says is creating new opportunities for advisors and families to engage with giving and legacy.
“The wealth transfer is an active conversation in many families. Australia doesn’t have the ‘dynasties’ that you may see in other countries, so for a great deal of private wealth, this transfer marks the first time it is moving beyond those who have created it. That can come with a large amount of trepidation as to ‘what happens next?'”
He believes philanthropy can help families navigate these conversations and engage younger generations in shaping their legacy.
We are seeing many families increasing their attention towards ensuring a smooth transition, largely around educating and engaging younger generations earlier. Philanthropy can act as a catalyst for those conversations.”
Australian Communities Foundation Chair Fiona McLeay welcomed John’s appointment to the Board.
“John brings extensive experience in governance, financial stewardship and strategic leadership, alongside a strong commitment to strengthening Australia’s culture of giving. His expertise will be invaluable as we continue to grow our giving community and deliver on our strategy.”
“John’s appointment also reflects the increasingly national nature of our Board, with Directors now based across Western Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria, and plans to further strengthen representation from across the country.”
