UnitingCare West CEO, Sue Ash, was recently awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List. The Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) is awarded for distinguished service of a high degree to Australia or humanity at large. Sue’s award recognises her “distinguished service to the community, particularly in the area of social policy development, reform and implementation, and to the provision of services to people in need”.
As CEO of UnitingCare West, Sue brings a deep and passionate commitment to UnitingCare West’s mission. This commitment has been shaped over a lifetime by Sue’s strong Christian ethos, and by her desire to ensure people are heard and provided with access to life-enhancing opportunities. Sue has been a part of the community sector for over 45 years and is passionate about building a civil society for future generations.
She has held executive positions in a number of organisations including Wanslea Family Services, Care Options and the Western Australian Council of Social Services.
Of her award, Sue says, “It really is quite amazing. This award has not only given me private joy but a public opportunity to speak up for people most in need. This recognition has come at the right time to be able to advocate for those without a voice.”