New board members bring diverse expertise

Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation Chair Tass Mousaferiadis today welcomed the Victorian Government’s appointment of Alison Roberts and Lee Crockford to the Foundation’s board.

A senior executive for more than 20 years, Dr Roberts is the director of South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network and chief executive of Airlines for Australia and New Zealand (A4ANZ), a public policy advocacy organisation.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr Roberts jointly established the Australian Aviation Recovery Coalition and led the development of COVID-Safe protocols for domestic flying, endorsed by National Cabinet.

She has a PhD in change management and extensive experience in leading teams focused on innovation and reform in complex environments.

‘Alison brings valuable skills and expertise to the Foundation, including an ability to navigate public policy challenges, synthesise evidence and work with stakeholders to achieve practical and effective solutions,’ Mr Mousaferiadis said.

‘The insights Alison gained working with governments to develop sector-specific support during the pandemic will be useful as restrictions are lifted on gaming venues in Victoria, and we work to assist industry to support returning customers who may be at risk of gambling harm.’

Mr Crockford, a specialist in behaviour change and social impact, jointly operates a strategy, design and venture studio (spur:).

A speaker, writer and facilitator, Mr Crockford has been recognised internationally for his work on understanding and measuring social change across a range of issues, such as mental health, foster care, family violence, LGBTIQ+ rights, and the environment.

He has been acknowledged with multiple awards, including a Global Laureate Fellow, D&F Academy Global Fellow, Australian Young Social Pioneer, Queensland Digital Champion, and Young Social Entrepreneur of the Year.

‘Lee’s unique talent and perspective, and his long-running interest and involvement in a range of important social issues align well with the Foundation’s focus on the prevention of gambling harm,’ Mr Mousaferiadis said.

‘I look forward to working closely with both new board colleagues over the next four years to make further progress towards achieving the Foundation’s vision of a Victoria free from gambling-related harm.’