Volunteer Board Members

Volunteer Board Members (Chair, Treasurer & 2 General Board Members) Join to apply for the Volunteer Board Members (Chair, Treasurer & 2 General Board Members) role at Soft Centre SOFT CENTRE invites expressions of interest for four volunteer Board positions - Chair, Treasurer, and two General Board members - to support the governance, strategic direction, and long‑term sustainability of an ambitious arts organisation working at the intersection of experimental performance, sound, emergent technology, and contemporary culture. These appointments come at a pivotal moment as SOFT CENTRE transitions into a formal not‑for‑profit structure and implements its Strategic Plan 2026–2027. SOFT CENTRE has recently secured two‑year organisational funding from Create NSW, affirming our role as a significant contributor to experimental practice in NSW and supporting long‑term growth. We encourage applications from people of diverse experiences, skills and backgrounds. About Soft Centre SOFT CENTRE is an artist‑led platform founded in 2017 to activate large‑scale, experimental, interdisciplinary works across sound, digital media, performance, installation, and hybrid practice. Our programs span: multi‑day festivals and large‑scale public events interdisciplinary commissions and new works international collaborations and cultural exchange residencies, developmental labs, and discourse programmes artist‑led digital publishing and knowledge platforms Anchored in Wangal Country at White Bay Power Station, we create translocal creative networks across Australia, the Asia‑Pacific region, Europe, and the Americas. SOFT CENTRE champions risk‑taking, collective imagination, digital experimentation, cultural safety, and artist‑first production models. About the Board The SOFT CENTRE Board is to support the Co‑Founders and team to shape a sustainable platform for experimental performance, sound, emergent technology, and contemporary culture. Specifically the Board – oversees governance, compliance, organisational integrity provides strategic oversight and long‑term planning ensures financial sustainability and responsible risk management upholds commitments to cultural safety, care‑led governance and equitable practice works collaboratively with the Co‑Founders as critical support and strategic partners The Board meets quarterly (online or hybrid), with additional occasional subcommittee or project‑specific meetings. Positions Available Below are the four volunteer positions now open. The Chair The Chair ensures SOFT CENTRE is governed ethically, strategically, and in alignment with its values. This role requires strong facilitation skills, clarity, neutrality, and the ability to guide productive governance conversations in a small, high‑performing, experimental arts organisation. Key Responsibilities Lead the Board and ensure governance responsibilities are fulfilled Chair quarterly Board meetings and co‑develop agendas with the Co‑Directors Uphold high standards of ethical practice and independence Support and mentor Board Members; strengthen Board culture and cohesion Guide development and review of governance, risk, and policy frameworks Represent SOFT CENTRE publicly when appropriate Uphold commitments to inclusion, equity, and cultural safety Who We’re Looking For Prior governance experience Strong leadership, communication, and facilitation skills Ability to manage complex discussion, conflict resolution, and consensus‑building Understanding of NFP governance and risk Interest in experimental arts, digital culture, or contemporary performance The Treasurer The Treasurer provides financial oversight and guides sustainable financial strategy during SOFT CENTRE’s foundational build and multi‑year funded growth. Key Responsibilities Oversee financial reporting, annual budgets, compliance, and risk Work with external accountants, bookkeepers and auditors Present clear financial updates to the Board Guide long‑term financial strategy, planning and sustainability models Support development of hybrid income streams (grants, earned income, philanthropy) Ensure ACNC, audit and regulatory compliance Who We’re Looking For Experience in finance, business management, accounting or audit Strong understanding of NFP financial governance Ability to interpret financial statements, cash‑flow and risk Experience in arts organisations, festivals, philanthropy, or funding is highly valued Clear communicator with good problem‑solving skills * (CPA not required - confidence and clarity in financial oversight is key.) General Board Members SOFT CENTRE is also seeking two General Board members to contribute specialist expertise, strategic insight, and values‑led leadership. Ideal for individuals passionate about shaping the future of experimental arts and supporting a growing NFP. Possible Areas of Expertise We welcome interest from people with experience in any of the following: Governance, organisational strategy or risk Community organising, cultural leadership or advocacy Key Responsibilities Participate in quarterly Board meetings Contribute to strategic planning and policy development Provide specialist knowledge to strengthen the organisation Support risk, governance, financial or organisational oversight Act as a cultural and ethical steward of SOFT CENTRE mission Who We’re Looking For Individuals committed to equitable, safe and values‑led governance People interested in experimental, cross‑disciplinary and artist‑led cultures Leaders or emerging leaders eager to contribute to a growing NFP Those with lived experience underrepresented in governance General Criteria (ALL BOARD MEMBERS) We welcome applicants who bring: Governance, strategy, legal, financial, HR, or philanthropic skills Experience in experimental arts, digital culture, festivals or interdisciplinary practice Lived experience from First Nations, CALD, LGBTQIA+, disability or working‑class communities Commitment to cultural safety, equity, and anti‑racist governance Interest in sustainable organisational models and long‑term planning Openness to collaboration, learning, and adaptive leadership Commitment Volunteer positions Approx. 2–4 hours per week (variable across the year) Quarterly Board meetings, online or hybrid Induction + governance support provided Minimum 18‑month commitment preferred Access & Inclusion SOFT CENTRE is committed to fair, inclusive and culturally safe governance. If you prefer to submit an application via audio, video, conversation, or another format, please let us know and we will accommodate your access needs. How to Apply Please send: CV (max 2 pages) Short Expression of Interest (300–500 words) including why you’re interested and the skills or experience you bring Email: Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an informal conversation with the Co‑Directors. #J-18808-Ljbffr