About Us

As a Stronger Places, Stronger People (SPSP) initiative our purpose is to disrupt disadvantage and create better futures for children and their families across various communities in Australia. It emphasizes a community-led approach, recognizing that local insights and engagement are crucial for effective change.

Our Community Reference Table

The Community Reference Table (CRT) brings together local leaders from health, education, government, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, and non-government organisations to guide Learning the Macleay’s work. They provide strategic advice, share local knowledge, and ensure initiatives respond to community priorities.

The CRT oversees the Backbone Team, offering guidance on planning, research, evaluation, and community engagement. Members meet six times a year to discuss developments across the Macleay Valley and feed recommendations back to their organisations. They play a central role in shaping the Activity Work Plan and will be actively involved in developing the inaugural Community Strategy. A Governance Charter is also being developed to clarify the roles of the CRT and other groups supporting Learning the Macleay.

The CRT is co-chaired by Debbie Swanson and Ricky Rudder, both local residents who have been involved with Learning the Macleay for more than two years. Their leadership ensures continuity, local insight, and strong community connection in guiding the organisation’s work.

Our Cross Sector Group

The Cross Sector Group (CSG) brings together representatives from local, state, and federal government, non-government agencies, and philanthropic organisations. It provides a space where systemic issues raised by the Community Reference Table and the wider community are discussed, and strategies are developed to address them. The CSG supports and advises on the delivery of the Learning the Macleay initiative, ensuring that services provided in the community are responsive to local needs.

The group meets four times a year, primarily online, to share insights, coordinate efforts, and guide long-term improvements that strengthen the impact of services across the Macleay Valley.