UnitingCare Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Tamara Thomas as its new National Director, commencing 16 February 2026.

Ms Thomas takes the leadership baton following the departure of Claerwen Little in September 2025, who served as National Director for nine years.

UnitingCare Australia Chair, Ms Heather Watson, said the appointment signals an exciting new chapter for the organisation.

“Tamara brings outstanding international leadership experience and a proven ability to deliver impact across the for-purpose sector. Her expertise in resource mobilisation, partnership development, and advocacy will be invaluable as we continue our mission for a fairer and more inclusive Australia.”

Assembly General Secretary, Mr Andrew Johnson, said Tamara brings invaluable leadership and insight to this important leadership role in the National Assembly of the Uniting Church.

“We are pleased to be able to appoint such a capable leader to lead the work of UnitingCare Australia. Tamara is deeply committed to the values of the Uniting Church. With experience in strategy and execution she will bring a commitment to outcomes for the people we serve.”

Ms Thomas has held senior leadership roles globally, including serving as a Director at the United Nations Joint Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), where she championed health equity and strategic partnerships. Her career spans corporate strategy, stakeholder engagement, and policy development, underpinned by a strong vision for systemic change.

Returning to Australia after more than three years in Geneva, Ms Thomas said:

“I am excited to join UnitingCare Australia and work alongside the network to create real change for communities. My vision is for a fairer, more just Australia, and I look forward to leveraging my global experience to strengthen advocacy and collaboration.”

About UnitingCare Australia

UnitingCare Australia is the national body for the Uniting Church’s community services network and an agency of the Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia.

Through advocacy and by strengthening service provision, UnitingCare Australia gives voice to the Uniting Church’s commitment to social justice.

The UnitingCare Network is the largest network of social service providers in Australia, delivering 5.8 million interactions annually across 1,600 service locations in urban, rural, and remote communities, with over 55,000 staff and 17,000 volunteers.