Mind Australia advises that its CEO, Gill Callister, has informed the Mind Board of her intention not to seek a new contract and to step down as CEO.
After more than six years as Mind’s CEO, Gill believes the time is right for a fresh voice to lead Mind, One Door Mental Health and The Haven Foundation into the future.
Gill joined Mind in 2020 during the COVID pandemic and has led the organisation through a period of significant change and growth. Among her many achievements, Gill has:
- built on Mind’s long-standing commitment to lived experience, cementing its status as a leader in this space by growing its lived and living experience workforce, and appointing its inaugural Executive Director – Lived Experience
- grown the Haven Foundation’s housing program from two Haven residences to 14, with more on the way
- overseen the successful merger with One Door Mental Health to increase both organisations’ reach and impact
- expanded Mind’s services for young people experiencing mental health challenges
- secured Mind’s financial position – Mind has doubled in size during Gill’s tenure
- led Mind through the design and delivery of free and accessible centre-based supports, including the Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals in Victoria and the Medicare Mental Health Centres.
Mind Board Chair, Professor Allan Fels AO, said Gill’s contribution to Mind, and to the mental health sector more broadly, has been profound.
“On behalf of the Board, I extend my sincere thanks to Gill for her leadership and service to Mind over the past six years. During her tenure, Mind has undergone significant change and growth – strengthening our services, expanding our reach and reinforcing our commitment to delivering high-quality, person-centred support to people experiencing mental health challenges,” Professor Fels said.
“The Board is very pleased that Gill will remain in the role while we undertake a thorough recruitment process to appoint a new CEO.”
Gill said working at Mind has been one of the highlights of her career, but she believes the organisation would benefit from fresh ideas, perspectives and energy as it embarks on its new Strategic Plan (2026-2030).
“This has by no means been an easy decision; Mind has meant more to me than I can fully express, but the time is right for a new leader to take the organisation forward,” Ms Callister said.
“Over the coming weeks and months, I will be working closely with the Board to ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition to a new CEO. Throughout this time, I remain very much committed to Mind, our staff and the people we support.”