The OzHelp Foundation (OzHelp) is pleased to announce the appointment of Caroline Walsh as the Foundation’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), commencing Monday 6 November 2023.
Caroline will bring national influence and experience in safety, policy and reform and industrial relations, with qualifications in law and government. She is deeply immersed within the mental health sector, including advisory and committee roles, alongside being a valued Board member of OzHelp for the past three years.
Caroline expressed her excitement at the opportunity to continue to grow and strengthen the Foundation’s reputation throughout the industry,
“I’m excited and honoured to be appointed CEO of OzHelp. I am passionate about working to achieve an Australia without suicide and supporting people to thrive at work. Our customers and stakeholders are at the heart of everything we do, and with the OzHelp team, I will work to prioritise their needs, exceed their expectations, and ensure that OzHelp remains a trusted and valued partner. I am truly excited about the opportunities ahead.”
Caroline takes over from Hamish Thomson as he transitions back to his position on the Board, after supporting the Foundation through a critical period of national growth for the past 12-months.
“Along with the entire board, I am delighted and inspired with Caroline’s appointment. We conducted an extensive recruitment search and bringing in such an experienced, competent and passionate leader allows us to continue to make a needed difference to many. This is a very exciting time for the foundation and all of our valued stakeholders,” said Hamish.
On average about nine Australians die by suicide every day, 75% of which are men; with those in high-risk industries such as building and construction and transport and logistics particularly affected. Backed by over 20 years’ experience and coupled with an intimate understanding of the intricacies of the industry, extensive customer and client relationships and an invaluable voice of lived experience, OzHelp is a national leader in providing health and wellbeing programs for workers in high-risk, hard-to-reach industries. OzHelp’s outreach approach takes support directly to workplaces and communities across Australia.
With her passion in supporting OzHelp’s vision of an Australia without suicide, Caroline is well-positioned to lead the team into a new era of growth and success. OzHelp looks forward to an exciting future under Caroline’s leadership and remain dedicated to transforming the lives of Australia’s most at-risk workers.