The ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS) has today paid tribute to ACTCOSS's CEO Dr Emma Campbell following her decision to step down from the role at the end of January 2023.
ACTCOSS Chair Jeremy Halcrow said: "Emma joined ACTCOSS in January 2020 and under her leadership ACTCOSS has strengthened the organisation's role as the peak body representing the ACT's community sector and as an advocate for social justice.
"I want to thank Emma for her leadership of the sector through the uncertainties of COVID and for helping to keep the ACT Government accountable, engaged and focused on the challenges facing our fellow citizens who experience hardship, are vulnerable, marginalised, or otherwise voiceless.
"I also want to acknowledge Emma's hard work and deep passion for making Canberra a more just society which has shaped her tenure over the past 3 years," said Mr Halcrow
Dr Emma Campbell, outgoing ACTCOSS CEO said: "I am proud of the achievements of ACTCOSS over the last three years. However, the ACT still has over 38,000 people living in poverty, including 9,000 children. Many other Canberrans face disadvantage, discrimination and vulnerability not least Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"Our governments need to raise the rate of income support and fix our housing crisis and we need to challenge the systems that perpetuate inequality and unfairness. As ACTCOSS reaches its 60th anniversary, its role in fighting for social justice is as important as ever. I leave the organisation in a strong position for my successor," said Dr Campbell.
Mr Halcrow said that on leaving her role at ACTCOSS, Dr Campbell will dedicate more time to her role as a Board Director at Médecins Sans Frontières Australia.
"On behalf of the ACTCOSS Board, team and members I wish Emma every success for her future endeavours knowing she will continue to fight for social justice and human rights," said Mr Halcrow.
ACTCOSS is committed to providing leadership to the ACT community sector and advocacy on behalf of people on low incomes throughout this period of transition. A recruitment process is underway. Details will be available on the ACTCOSS website.
