2026 Election of General Directors
Lead with purpose. Serve with impact.

Nominations are now open to fill 2 upcoming vacancies on the Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) Board of General Directors.

Joining the Board is a chance to contribute to the strategic direction, governance and sustainability of SPA and the speech pathology profession. Directors guide SPA’s long-term priorities, ensuring decisions serve members, the profession and the wider community.

SPA is committed to diversity in governance and welcomes nominations from voting members with lived experience that enriches the perspectives represented on the Board. Applications are encouraged from members who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, LGBTQIA+, migrants, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, or people with disability. Experience in the areas of law, government or regulation, is also highly valued. These diverse skills strengthen strategic decision-making and sector leadership.

State and territory cap: Under the current Constitution, no more than 2 Directors can be from any one state or territory. Nominations are being accepted from all jurisdictions for this election. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members are exempt from this restriction. 

Why is there a second election in 2026?

SPA has changed its reporting year so it aligns with both the financial year and the membership year, running from 1 July to 30 June. As part of this transition, there will be a second round of Board elections in 2026 and a second Annual General Meeting in November 2026. 

Nominations for the second round of General Director elections opened on Friday 26 June 2026.

Eligible members from all states and territories are encouraged to put their name forward.

 

About the General Director role 

The Board is responsible for setting and guiding SPA's strategy, in line with the Constitution.

It's a meaningful leadership role – and for many Directors, it's their first time taking on responsibilities at this level, including legal, financial, and strategic oversight. Many Directors describe it as both professionally and personally rewarding.

As a new Director, you’ll be supported by experienced Directors, the Chief Executive Officer and the broader executive team, with access to professional development opportunities. 

What’s the time commitment? 

  • Four in-person Board meetings per year (usually Friday and Saturday). At least 2 are held in Melbourne, with one or 2 held in other states/territories to connect with members around the country. Meetings are scheduled well in advance, and travel costs are covered. 
  • At least 4 online Board meetings per year, held in the evenings 
  • Four subcommittee meetings per year, also held in the evenings.  
  • Board paper pre-reading in the period leading up to each Board and Subcommittee meeting. 
  • Appointments will take effect from the November 2026 Annual General Meeting for a 3-year term. 

Ready to nominate?  

Download: 

Complete nominations must be received by Speech Pathology Australia’s Company Secretary no later than Wednesday 29 July 2026, 11:59 pm AEST. Late nominations cannot be considered. Please submit the documentation by email to [email protected]. 

Voting members are encouraged to nominate. Elections will be held if there are more nominations received than positions vacant. 

 

Election timeline 

  • Nominations open: Friday 26 June 2026 
  • Nominations close: Wednesday 29 July 2026 
  • Voting opens: Friday 18 September 2026 
  • Voting closes: Friday 2 October 2026  

Appointments announced to the Board of Directors and nominees: Within 7 days of voting closing.  
Appointments announced to the membership: At the Annual General Meeting to be held on 23 November 2026 
Directors take office: Immediately following the Annual General Meeting to be held on 23 November 2026 

Contact 

For further information, contact Lyn Brodie, Chief Executive Officer and Company Secretary, on [email protected].