Aaron Hockly
Accenture
Accenture in Australia brings innovation to improve the way Australia lives, works, plays, protects and grows. Accenture is committed to ensuring an inclusive environment for all employees regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. Accenture announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation in 2020. The Accenture Scholarship is awarded to a student studying…
Read MoreAdam Lees (he/him)
Non-Executive Director; Member of the People, Remuneration & Nominations Committee BA (Griffith University, Grad Dip (Monash University) Adam is the director of New Moon Consulting. With over 20 years of experience in the global mining and energy sectors, he has held senior leadership and executive roles with many of the world’s leading mining and resources…
Read MoreAGL
AGL operates the country’s largest electricity generation portfolio and is the largest ASX-listed investor in renewable energy. It is committed to LGBTQIA+ inclusion. AGL announced its multi-year support of The Pinnacle Foundation in 2019. The AGL Scholarship is open to all scholarship applicants.
Read MoreAlan Joyce AC
Alan was Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of the Qantas Group from 2008 until 2023. He previously served as founding CEO of Jetstar for five years from 2003, establishing its operations in Australia and Asia. Prior to his appointment at Jetstar, Alan spent over 15 years in key positions at Qantas, Ansett and Aer…
Read MoreAlan Smith
Alex Blackwell
Allens
Allens is a leading international law firm with a long and proud heritage of shaping the future for its clients, people and the communities in which the firm works. Allens announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation in 2020. The Allens Scholarship is awarded to a student studying law.
Read MoreAndrew Hoppe
Andrew Housden
Member, Investment Committee Andrew joined The Pinnacle Foundation in March 2018 as the Chief Financial Officer and at the beginning of 2020 became the NSW Committee Chair. Andrew is also a member of the Investment Committee and Partnerships Committee. Andrew is the Chief Financial Officer of Tibra Capital, and has previously held senior finance roles…
Read MoreAndrew Staite (he/him)
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer BA & LLB (The University of Melbourne) Andrew is managing director & chief executive officer of The Pinnacle Foundation. He is non-executive chair of executive search and outplacement firm, SHK, and a non-executive director of ALBEI, a not-for-profit organisation committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the boardrooms of…
Read MoreAnne Nixon (she/her)
South Australian Committee Chair Anne has many years of experience managing services, projects, programs and people and in the development and implementation of health and community service delivery. She has had a diverse career, working internationally in women’s and reproductive health, Aboriginal health, and in primary health care – as a clinician, educator and researcher…
Read MoreAnnette Mullen
Member, Investment Committee Annette was appointed as a member of the Investment Committee in April 2017. Annette is an adjunct professor in Finance at The University of Sydney Business School, where she participates in the development and teaching of the third year Finance Capstone project. Annette is also a graduate of the Australian Institute of…
Read MoreAnnie Johnston
Western Australian Committee Chair Annie has an extensive background in the banking and finance sector, having worked in the industry for the past 25 years. Annie has been with the Commonwealth Bank for ten years. She leads the Local Government Banking Group across Western Australia. Annie joined Pinnacle’s Western Australian Committee in June 2017 and…
Read MoreAshurst
Bank of Melbourne Foundation
The Bank of Melbourne Foundation supports local charities and programs that deliver sustainable benefits to Victorian communities. The Bank of Melbourne Foundation Scholarship is open to all eligible Victorian scholarship applicants.
Read MoreBankwest
Ben Henry (he/him)
Volunteer Company Secretary JD (The University of Melbourne), BA (The University of Melbourne) Ben is a risk and compliance specialist with extensive experience working with major financial services institutions, including superannuation funds, banks, investment managers, and insurers. Ben has worked as a lawyer with MinterEllison and in Deloitte’s Financial Services Risk Advisory practice. Ben is…
Read MoreBenjamin Law
Banjamin is an Australian writer and broadcaster. He is the author of The Family Law (2010), Gaysia (2013), the Quarterly Essay Moral Panic 101 (2017) and editor of Growing Up Queer in Australia (2019). Benjamin is also an AWGIE Award-winning screenwriter. He is the co-executive producer, co-creator and co-writer of the Netflix comedy-drama Wellmania (2023), playwright of Melbourne Theatre Company’s sold-out play Torch the Place (2020), and creator and co-writer of three…
Read MoreBHP
BHP announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation in 2019, and expanded this further in 2022. Inclusion and diversity at BHP promotes safety, productivity and wellbeing of its workforce and underpins its ability to attract new employees. BHP funds six named scholarships across Australia.
Read MoreBibbulmun Fund
The Bibbulmun Fund aims to open new possibilites for Aboriginal enterprise and foster entrepreneurial leadership. It supports regionally relevant initiatives that facilitate positive impact throughout Aboriginal Australia. The Bibbulmun Fund is held in trust by the Fremantle Foundation. The Bibbulmun Fund Scholarship is awarded to a student from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background.
Read MoreBlundstone
Blundstone boots are worn and loved around the world by people young and old for work and play. Family-owned and headquartered in Tasmania, Blundstone enables people to walk life their way. Blundstone has been a proud partner of The Pinnacle Foundation partner since 2021. The Blundstone Scholarship is open to all scholarship applicants.
Read MoreBob Brown & Paul Thomas
Robert James “Bob” Brown is an Australian former politician, medical doctor, and environmentalist who is a former Senator, and former Parliamentary Leader of the Australian Greens. Brown was elected to the Australian Senate on the Tasmanian Greens ticket, joining with sitting Greens Western Australia senator Dee Margetts to form the first group of Australian Greens…
Read MoreBohdan Abrat
Brenda Appleton OAM
Brenda retired in 2009 after 35 years working in the corporate sector and is heavily involved volunteering with a wide range of community groups, including the LGBTQIA+ communities in Melbourne (for more than 25 years). Brenda was the chair of Transgender Victoria until 2021, and stepped down in 2019, after two terms as the co-chair…
Read MoreCaitlyn Georgeson (she/her)
Non-Executive Director; Member of the Audit & Risk Committee LLM (The University of Melbourne), LLB Hons I & BA (The University of Adelaide) Caitlyn is a senior legal officer in the Office of International Law at the Attorney-General’s Department. Previously, Caitlyn worked on a range of business and human rights, modern slavery, employment, and…
Read MoreCity of Melbourne
The City of Melbourne has a vision of Melbourne as a City of Possibility, where the world meets and extraordinary happens. Through its Social Partnerships Program, it promotes community connection, social inclusion, access and participation. The City of Melbourne Scholarship is open to scholarship applicants who reside in the City of Melbourne or study at a…
Read MoreClaire Spencer AM (she/her)
Chair of the Board of Directors; Member People, Remuneration & Nominations Committee; Member Audit & Risk Committee During her first five years as CEO of Arts Centre Melbourne, Claire steered the organisation toward financial stability, securing work for thousands of artists, technical crews and arts workers as the four indoor venues, iconic outdoor Sidney Myer…
Read MoreCocogun
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia is a proud and long-standing partner of The Pinnacle Foundation. The Commonwealth Bank supports a broad range of activities that bring long term benefits to all Australians. The Commonwealth Bank Scholarships are awarded across every state/territory and are open to scholarship applicants broadly studying in the fields relevant to banking…
Read MoreCourtney Dolphin (she/they)
South Australian Committee Chair Originating from the rural towns of Roxby Downs and Port Augusta, Courtney understands the importance and value of higher education, and acknowledges the challenges that can arise for young LGBTIQ+ people undertaking further study. Having previously held various positions on the University of South Australia Law Students’ Association, Courtney wanted to…
Read MoreCubico Sustainable Investments
Cubico Sustainable Investments is one of the world’s leading renewable energy infrastructure companies. Cubico strongly believes that everyone has a role to play in being actively curious, open-minded and respectful, with diversity taking pride of place as the first of its six corporate values. Cubico announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation in 2023. The Cubico…
Read MoreDain Kirwan (he/him)
Dain Kirwan is a senior leader in the Western Australian public service, having worked across diverse portfolios in strategy and policy roles for the past 15 years. As the manager of housing policy at the Department of Communities, he is at the forefront of the State’s response to providing affordable and accessible housing. After reading…
Read MoreDan Bourchier
Dan Bourchier is an award-winning multi-platform broadcaster with the ABC, accomplished company director, an in-demand public speaker and event MC and facilitator. Dan anchors Mornings and Weekends on ABC News channel, and is the chair of the ABCs Bonner Committee, which advises the managing director and board on Indigenous affairs. Dan regularly hosts major national programs and…
Read MoreDan Murphy’s
Dan Murphy’s has been a proud partner of The Pinnacle Foundation since 2023. Part of the Endeavour Group, Dan Murphy’s embraces and promotes diversity, valuing and respecting unique contributions, experiences and perspectives and supporting a diverse community. In 2024, Dan Murphy’s increased in its level of partnership support, creating The Dan Murphy’s Scholarship. The Dan…
Read MoreDaniel Kowalski OAM
Daniel Kowalski is an Australian former middle and long-distance swimmer specialising in freestyle events. He competed in the Olympic Games in 200-, 400- and 1,500-metre individual freestyle events and in the 4×200-metre freestyle relay. At the 1996 Summer Olympics, he was the first man in 92 years to earn medals in all of the 200-,…
Read MoreDarren Donnelly (he/him)
Volunteer Chief Information Officer Darren has been creating innovative technologies and managing software development teams in the digital space for the last two decades; working for highly successful start-ups and dotcoms such as the REA Group and SEEK. His most recent role has been as Head of Product Delivery for Containerchain, a provider of SAAS…
Read MoreDavid Walsh (he/him)
Volunteer Psychologist – Scholarship Selection David is a registered psychologist and has worked as a research psychologist in the School of Community Medicine at the University of NSW and for many years was a consultant in organisational psychology. In his current role David is a senior executive in the NSW Government. David’s qualifications include a…
Read MoreDentsu
Dentsu partners with brands to achieve meaningful progress as a force for growth and good. It is committed to long-term sustainable change in society and creating a culture of fairness, equity and equality for all. Dentsu announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation in 2022. The Dentsu Scholarship is awarded to scholarship applicants studying…
Read MoreDiversity Partners
Dominique van den Berg (she/her)
Non-Executive Director; Member of the Investment Committee BCom (University of South Africa), MBA (Warwick university), GAICD Dom is chief executive officer of Energy Networks Australia. She brings to the role an international career spanning more than 20 years in the energy sector – from leading BG Group’s operations in South and East Asia, to Shell’s…
Read MoreDomino’s Minds & Meals
Domino’s Minds & Meals supports youth mental health. Young LGBTQIA+ Australians attempt self-harm and experience psychological distress at extremely high rates directly related to experiences of stigma, prejudice, discrimination, bullying and abuse. Domino’s Minds & Meals is proud to help educate and support young LGBTQIA+ Australians to overcome challenges arising from how they identify and…
Read MoreDr Ann Stewart
Dr Cassandra Goldie AO
Non-Executive Director; Member Investment Committee Dr Cassandra Goldie is CEO of the Australian Council of Social Service, the national peak body for the community sector, and an advocate for tackling poverty and inequality. She has public policy expertise in economic and social issues, civil society, social justice and human rights and is a regular media…
Read MoreDr Craig White (he/him)
Non-Executive Director; Member of the People, Remuneration & Nominations Committee MBBS (The University of Melbourne), MBus (Swinburne University), GAICD, MAICG Craig personally experienced the uplifting experience of education. As a teenager, growing up in a small country town, he was sure ‘there must be more to the world.’ A scholarship was the beginning of…
Read MoreDr Russell Date
Dr Shirleene Robinson AM
Australian Capital Territory Committee Member Dr Shirleene Robinson AM is a historian, author and curator. She has volunteered with Australian Marriage Equality since 2012, serving as New South Wales Co-Convenor, National Spokesperson and Board Director. She is also the President of Sydney’s Pride History Group. Shirleene has a PhD in History from the University of…
Read MoreDr. Jim Sait (he/him)
Volunteer Foundation Advisor Dr Jim Sait worked in the higher education sector for 35 years. He has taught at universities in the UK, Canada and Australia before crossing to the ‘dark side’ in university administration at the University of Sydney where he ran the International Office. In 2005 he moved into executive search where he…
Read MoreEdelman
Elizabeth (Beth) Kerrison (she/her)
Australian Capital Territory Committee Chair Beth has worked in enterprise risk management, performance audit, corporate and academic governance for the past 15 years. She is a former member of the management committee for Diversity ACT and the ANU LGBTIQ+ alumni committee. Beth and her nearest and dearest, Megan, call Canberra home and worry they have…
Read MoreElizabeth Jameson AM
Non-Executive Deputy Chair of the Board of Directors; Member Audit & Risk Committee Elizabeth is a non-executive director and lawyer of over 30 years standing, a nationally respected governance consultant of almost 20 years standing and a longstanding Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. In 2002, from her prior 15 year legal career,…
Read MoreEmpower2Free
Endeavour Group
Essential Energy
Essential Energy looks after the poles and wires that deliver electricity to 95 per cent of New South Wales and parts of southern Queensland. Essential Energy announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation in 2024 including the creation of The Essential Energy Scholarship which is awarded to scholarship applicants from rural, regional or remote…
Read MoreEvelyn Peter (she/her)
Volunteer Company Secretary Evelyn is a senior associate in King & Wood Mallesons’ Mergers & Acquisitions team. Evelyn advises corporate clients (including leading ASX-listed companies) on public and private M&A transactions, joint ventures, capital raisings and corporate governance issues. Evelyn is also passionate about maintaining a pro bono practice alongside her commercial work and has…
Read MoreFran Kelly
Fremantle Foundation
Gavin Cao (he/him)
Volunteer Chief Financial Officer Gavin is a seasoned finance professional who has transitioned from executive finance roles to a thriving accounting and financial planning practice. Currently, he is completing a Master of Financial Planning and is eager to bring his extensive experience and fresh perspectives to help individuals achieve their financial goals. Prior to this…
Read MoreGeoff Annabel
Geoff Selig
Georgie Stone OAM
Georgie Stone is one of the most visible transgender individuals in Australia. In 2011 she was the youngest person to receive puberty blockers in Australia, and in 2013 a landmark ruling in her case re:Jamie meant that no other child had to go to court to access puberty blockers. Since then, Georgie has dedicated her…
Read MoreGinna Webster (she/her)
Tasmanian Committee Chair Ginna is a long-term and passionate public servant having worked in both the Commonwealth and Tasmanian State Service all of her career. Ginna is currently the Secretary of the Department of Justice in Tasmania, having returned to the Agency after establishing the new Department of Communities in 2018. Her diverse career includes…
Read MoreGood Oil
Google.org
Greg Livingstone (he/him)
Non-Executive Chair of the Board of Directors, Member of the Audit and Risk Committee; Member of the People, Remuneration & Nominations Committee BCom & MCom (University of New South Wales) Greg was appointed to The Pinnacle Foundation board in February 2019. He was appointed chair of The Pinnacle Foundation in April 2022. Following a corporate…
Read MoreHall & Wilcox
Han Worsley (they/them)
Volunteer Alumni Program Lead Han is an enthusiastic educator, gender equality and LGBTQIA+ advocate, and public speaker. Growing up on the family farm north of Nullamanna NSW, population 40, has driven Han’s passion for rural and remote communities. Supported by Pinnacle as a scholar from 2017 – 2021, Han has experienced first-hand the value of…
Read MoreHCF
Her Excellency the Hon Linda Dessau AC, Governor of Victoria
Patron-in-Chief We are honoured to welcome Her Excellency the Honourable Linda Dessau AC, Governor of Victoria as our Patron-in-Chief. On 1 July 2015, the Honourable Linda Dessau AC was sworn in as Victoria’s 29th Governor, the first female in the role. Governor Dessau was born in Melbourne in 1953, and was educated at St Catherine’s…
Read MoreHerbert Smith Freehills
The IRIS Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants. The IRIS Network is Herbert Smith Freehills’ global LGBTQIA+ and Ally network. The name IRIS is short for Inclusion, Respecting Identity and Sexuality, and reflects Herbert Smith Freehills’ commitment to fostering a genuinely inclusive culture and a community of belonging for people of diverse sexual…
Read MoreHydro Tasmania
Hydro Tasmania is Australia’s leading clean energy business and largest generator of renewable energy. Hydro Tasmania announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation in 2021. The Hydro Tasmania Scholarship is open to all Tasmanian scholarship applicants.
Read MoreIan Gould
IFM Investors
IFM Investors is one of the few truly aligned fund managers in the world. It actively engages with the companies in which it invests to promote inclusive workplace cultures that harness the value of diversity to support long-term performance. It recognises that companies embracing a diversity of views in their workforce, promoting working environments free…
Read MoreInitiative
Insignia Financial
In recognition of the long history of the Insignia Financial Group, and the important role it has played in supporting the community since 1846, the Insignia Community Foundation provides grants to support Australian not-for-profit organisations working with disadvantaged families, children and youth. The Insignia Community Foundation has supported the Pinnacle program since 2021. The Insignia…
Read MoreIntegrity Solutions
ISS
ive
IVFAustralia
IVF Australia is a market leader in Australian reproductive medicine and is home to a dedicated team of fertility specialists, scientists, nurses, counsellors and operational professionals. In 2021, IVF Australia became a proud partner of The Pinnacle Foundation, further expanding its partnership in 2022 to include the creation of The IVF Australia Scholarship. The IVF…
Read MoreJackie Stricker Phelps OAM
James Collins
James Holland (he/him)
Volunteer Alumni Manager James is a management consultant at Nous Group, specialising in leadership, organisational performance and transformation. Prior to joining Nous, James studied a Bachelor of Law (Honours) and Arts at Monash University. James is passionate about social impact. In his role, James has worked with queer NGOs and peak bodies to upskill their…
Read MoreJanine Middleton AM
Janine Middleton AM
Read MoreJennifer Westacott AO
Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from the University of New South Wales, Graduate Management Certificate from the Monash Mt Eliza Business School and was a Chevening Scholar at the London School of Economics. Jennifer was Chief Executive of the Business Council of Australia, the leading forum for the heads of over 100 of…
Read MoreJerome Tse (he/him)
Non-Executive Director; Chair of the Investment Committee LLB, BCom and LLM (The University of Melbourne) Jerome is a partner in the tax group at King & Wood Mallesons based in Sydney. He brings over 20 years’ professional experience assisting individuals and businesses to manage their tax affairs and resolve delicate and complex tax disputes. In…
Read MoreJess Cronin (she/her) & Scott Cowen (he/him)
Jess Cronin (she/her) South Australian Committee Co-Chair Jess is currently a director of The Umbrella Collective, a consultancy business providing strategic expertise in workforce diversity, stakeholder engagement and business development. Jess has extensive leadership experience within the high education sector with a focus on partnership development, program management, student recruitment, scholarships, and philanthropy. Committed to…
Read MoreJill Skromanis (she/her)
Volunteer Chief People Officer Jill is an organisational development specialist, coach and mentor with twenty years of industry experience in the financial services sector in Australian, European, Asian and global contexts. She has worked with ANZ, Zurich European General Insurances (based in London) and most recently, at IAG. Jill has experience in providing thought leadership…
Read MoreJoe Sbarro
Judge Charlotte Kelly
Judge of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia Charlotte connected with The Pinnacle Foundation in 2014 as mentor to Caitlyn Georgeson, a Law/Arts student attending the University of Adelaide. The experience was rewarding and affirmed all that Pinnacle endeavours to achieve. Caitlyn herself has continued to play an active role within the Foundation,…
Read MoreJulian De Bortoli
After completing an MBA at an young age, Julian was inspired to bring a highly strategic approach to retail marketing and gained a lot of experience from marketing professionals and mentors within the industry. He has over 20 years of experience in senior marketing roles across global brands such as McDonald’s and Europcar and has…
Read MoreKalpaka Kamakshi
Karen Brown (she/her)
Non-Executive Deputy Chair of the Board of Directors; Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee BA & Dip Ed (The University of Western Australia), GAICD Karen is non-executive chair of strategic communications firm Purple. A trusted advisor and expert communicator, she has worked at the very highest levels of politics, media and business. During…
Read MoreKen Greenblatt
Member, Partnerships Committee Ken is a fairly new transplant to Melbourne Australia after having spent most of his career as a talent agent in Los Angeles. His husband, Peter Walsh, is known as the ‘Organising Guy’ from the Network 9 television reality series SPACE INVADERS. Ken runs the business operations of Peter’s career. With a degree…
Read MoreKevin Brown (he/him)
Tasmanian Committee Chair Kevin has had a broad career spanning the advertising, marketing, medical and health industries. He has founded or co-founded several businesses, the biggest of which is now Tasmania’s largest independent hearing clinic chain, Maria Brown Hearing Clinic. Kevin brings over 20 years as a working professional and entrepreneur to The Pinnacle Foundation.…
Read MoreKing & Wood Mallesons
King & Wood Mallesons is a leading international law firm headquartered in Asia. It is recognised as one of the world’s most innovative law firms. King & Wood Mallesons announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation in 2019. The King & Wood Mallesons Scholarship is awarded to a student studying law.
Read MoreKPMG
KPMG recognises that great minds think differently. Its commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusion is underpinned globally and includes meaingful and sustainable actions to create safe, diverse and inclusive workplaces. KPMG has been a supporter of The Pinnacle Foundation for many years, becoming a gold partner in 2024. The KPMG Scholarship is awarded to a student studying…
Read MoreL’Oreal
For more than a century, L’Oreal has devoted its energy and competencies to one business: beauty. L’Oreal embraces beauty for all. In 2020, L’Oreal made a multi-year commitment to support The Pinnacle Foundation. The L’Oreal Scholarship is open to all scholarship applicants.
Read MoreLaura Cripps (she/they)
Scholar and Mentor Manager Laura was a Pinnacle Foundation scholar in 2018, during her final year of a Bachelor of Laws (Honours). Laura remained with the Foundation as a volunteer before being appointed scholar & mentor manager in 2022. Laura’s lived experience as a scholar helps to support scholars with their journey through higher education,…
Read MoreLiam Buckley (he/him)
New South Wales Committee Chair Liam has recently joined at NSW Committee Chair, having previously been a Pinnacle Mentor. Liam has had a broad career across finance, risk, audit and human capital with leading organisations such as QBE Insurance Group, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Macquarie Group and PwC. Liam is a Chartered Accountant and holds…
Read MoreLibby O’Donovan OAM
Libby O’Donovan OAM is a “powerful and sassy performer” (SMH), renowned for her nuanced interpretations and extraordinary voice. She is a critically acclaimed Jazz and Cabaret Performer, composer and an award-winning Musical Director. Libby has entertained audiences world-over with her unique talents, performing in New York, Tokyo and Toronto as well as Australia-wide. Equally at…
Read MoreLorraine Hall
Lorraine has been a supporter of the Pinnacle Foundation for nearly ten years and has previously mentored two Pinnacle Foundation scholars, starting in 2016. She was appointed chair of the NSW Committee in 2023. Lorraine has had a broad legal career spanning over 30 years, working as a commercial lawyer at leading organisations including Allens,…
Read MoreMacquarie
Macquarie is a global financial services organisation with Australian heritage, operating in 34 markets. Macquarie regards the diversity of its workforce and its inclusive culture as fundamental to its success. Macquarie became a gold partner of The Pinnacle Foundation in 2019. The Macquarie Scholarship is open to all scholarship applicants.
Read MoreMaddocks
Maddocks is a proudly independent Australian law firm with a diverse range of national and international clients across key industry sectors. Maddocks believes that people perform better when they can bring their whole self to work. Maddocks expanded its multi-year partnership with The Pinnacle Foundation in 2021. The Maddocks Scholarship is awarded to a student…
Read MoreMadeline Richardson (she/her)
Non-Executive Director; Chair of the People, Remuneration & Nominations Committee LLB (The University of Adelaide) & MPA (Flinders University) Madeline is an experienced senior executive leader within the public sector. She has held a wide range of positions spanning health, industrial relations, economic development, community engagement and education. Madeline is passionate about public value and delivering positive…
Read MoreMagda Szubanski AO
Mark Sawyer
Victorian Committee Chair Mark has 15 years of experience in the financial services industry, covering retail and commercial banking, payments, financial planning, foreign exchange and risk management. As Chair of The Pinnacle Foundation’s Victorian Committee, Mark takes a keen interest in supporting the LGBTIQ+ community. Mark was also a founding committee member of Pride@NAB, the National…
Read MoreMark Stewart (he/him)
Non-Executive Director; Member of the Audit & Risk Committee BCom (Deakin University), GAICD Mark has spent over 20 years working in the not-for-profit sector in Australia, Europe and Asia as an executive level manager, after building a career in finance and accounting across a variety of industries. His experience in driving transformation and growth…
Read MoreMartin Comans
Melbourne IVF
As pioneers in IVF, Melbourne IVF is one of the world’s leading centres for fertility treatment, at the forefront of research, technology and teaching, with specialists from across Australia and the world visiting its centre to learn and share ideas. Melbourne IVF became a multi-year partner of The Pinnacle Foundation in 2022. The Melbourne IVF…
Read MoreMercure
Michael Winchester
Member, Investment Committee Michael is the head of investment strategy at Aware Super, one of Australia’s largest profit-for-member superannuation funds. He manages the asset allocation of the Fund’s $175bn asset pool on behalf of over 1.1 million Australians. Michael holds a Master of Commerce in Funds Management from the University of New South Wales and…
Read MoreMichelle Rogers
Mirvac
Mirvac is an Australian property group with a clearly defined purpose to reimagine urban life. By creating beautiful homes, inspiring workplace precincts, and thriving shopping centres, it aims to make a positive contribution to our cities and communities. Mirvac funds three scholarships which are awarded to scholars undertaking fulltime university, TAFE or trade qualifications in…
Read MoreMomentum Energy
Morgan Stanley
MPL Signage
Narelda Jacobs OAM
Narelda Jacobs is a Whadjuk Noongar journalist, presenter, commentator and keynote speaker. Her career at Network 10 has spanned more than two decades, starting in the Perth newsroom in 2000 before heading to Sydney in January 2020 to co-host Studio 10 and present 10 News First Perth. Narelda is currently a co-host of Studio 10…
Read MoreNathan Parker
Nic Bills (he/him)
Victorian Committee Chair Nic has volunteered with The Pinnacle Foundation since 2019 as a member of the Victorian Committee, previously holding the roles of secretary and events lead. Having grown up gay in regional Victoria, Nic is particularly enthusiastic about reducing barriers to education for other regional, rural, and remote LGBTQIA+ young people so they…
Read MoreNicholas Steepe (he/him)
Volunteer Rural, Regional & Remote Scholar Liaison Nic grew up in regional Australia and currently lives in Junee, New South Wales. After coming to terms with his sexuality at a young age, Nic faced the difficulty of family, peer and societal rejection which took a significant toll on his mental health. Whilst studying a Bachelor of…
Read MoreOla Radka (she/her)
Partnerships & Events Manager Ola has almost 20 years of experience across a wide variety of professional roles helping people discover their full potential, all the way from Poland to Australia! She has done this in many ways, in a variety of sectors, including primary and adult education, non-profit program management, health and wellness, and…
Read MoreParamount
As a leading content company with global reach and impact, Paramount influences culture around the world. Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are central to Paramount’s success – they are a cornerstone of its legacy and foundational to its future. Paramount has been a partner of The Pinnacle Foundation since 2022. The Paramount Scholarship is open…
Read MoreParamount
Patricia Karvelas
Patricia Karvelas is a prominent and highly respected Australian journalist, television and radio host, podcaster, political journalist, and commentator. Patricia began her professional career at the ABC and SBS 20 years ago, and has since worked across every medium across the Australian media landscape. She currently presents the agenda-setting RN Breakfast on ABC Radio. Patricia…
Read MorePatron-in-Chief: Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC
Professor Margaret Gardner was the 9th and first woman President and Vice-Chancellor of Monash University from 1 September 2014 until 4 August 2023. Prior to joining Monash, Professor Gardner was Vice-Chancellor and President of RMIT from April 2005 until August 2014. She has extensive academic experience, having held various leadership positions in Australian universities throughout…
Read MorePaul Clark (he/him)
Co-Founder Paul is a Co-founder of Pinnacle Foundation. He was inspired by the vision of fellow founders Sean Linkson, Philip Comans and Susan Brooks to help bring that vision to life. Paul’s professional experience reflects his passion and commitment for driving positive social outcomes. He has worked for over twenty years, both locally and internationally,…
Read MorePaul Ward (he/him)
Western Australian Committee Chair Paul Ward is a technology expert with more than 25 years’ experience. He specialises in business intelligence, data engineering and training and works with BHP as a subject matter expert in visualisation, reporting and data analytics. Paul joined the Western Australian Committee in 2019, after volunteering to represent BHP in WA…
Read MorePaul Zahra
Founding Chair Paul Zahra served as chair of the board of directors of The Pinnacle Foundation from February 2016 until October 2021, after joining the board in June 2015. Paul is a chief executive officer, non-executive director, board and company advisor, and one of Australia’s most influential diversity advocates. A leading force in the Australian…
Read MorePaula Corvalan (she/her)
Program Manager Paula Corvalan has over 15 years’ experience working in communication, marketing and social services. Paula has worked in print and digital media, advertising strategy, events and copywriting with organisations such as News Limited and Fairfax. Most recently Paula worked as a community relations specialist in accommodation and housing services, education and training across…
Read MorePhilip Comans (he/him)
Co-Founder Philip is the partner of Sean Linkson, and the youngest in a family of four children born in Canberra in 1959. Philip was lucky enough to attend the Australian National University during the Whitlam Government years when tertiary education was free, gaining a Bachelor of Economics Degree. “I experienced first hand how having a…
Read MorePippa Downes
Pitcher Partners
Professor Kerryn Phelps AM
QBE Group
We welcome general insurance company, QBE Group, for its fifth year supporting The Pinnacle Foundation. As part of its commitment to encouraging diversity and inclusion, QBE supports community initiatives that promote acceptance and opportunity for vulnerable and under-represented groups. The QBE Scholarship is open to all scholarship applicants.
Read MoreQube
Qube’s vision is to be Australia’s leading provider of integrated logistics solutions focused on import and export supply chains. Qube is dedicated to creating an environment in which inclusion, equity and diversity are recognised as being essential to employee well-being, which in turn drives the performance. Qube announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation…
Read MoreQueensland Fertility Group
As a member of Virtus Health, Queensland Fertility Group has more experienced fertility specialists, offering many treatment options, in more locations, to create more babies than any other fertility group. Queensland Fertility Group became a multi-year partner of The Pinnacle Foundation in 2022. The Queensland Fertility Group Scholarship is open to Queensland scholarship applicants ideally…
Read MoreRamsay Health Care
Ramsay Health Care is one of the largest, most diverse private healthcare companies in the world, employing more than 89,000 of the best people in healthcare who expertly look after millions of patients every year. It aims to have a diverse workforce that reflects its communities. Ramsay Health Care announced its multi-year support for The…
Read MoreRebekah Gay
Reg Domingo (he/him)
Rio Tinto
Rio Tinto made a multi-year commitment to support The Pinnacle Foundation program in 2021. Rio Tinto seeks to foster a culture where every voice is heard, every idea is encouraged and everyone is supported. Rio Tinto supports six Thrive Scholarships which are awarded to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander scholarship applicants, scholarship applicants from rural,…
Read MoreRo Allen
With 25 years’ experience in community services, governance and social justice, Ro Allen has a deep commitment to equality and a broad experience in strategic advocacy. As Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commissioner, Ro works to uphold Victorians’ rights, promote accountability and to build a fairer, safer and more inclusive community. Prior to joining…
Read MoreRoss Wetherbee (he/him)
Non-Executive Director BCom (The University of Wollongong) Ross is group inclusion enablement & transformation lead at Woolworths Group. He was previously head of diversity, equity & Inclusion at nbn Co. Prior to joining nbn Co in 2021, Ross was talent & inclusion lead at TAL, Australia’s largest life insurer. Ross has worked with iconic multinational…
Read MoreSam Jacob (they/them)
Volunteer Chair Scholarship Selection Committee Sam brings more than 30 years’ experience in higher education in the UK and Australia, including senior roles at Charles Darwin, Torrens, Deakin, Monash and Adelaide universities. Sam’s current role is CEO at the Australian College of the Arts (Collarts), a dual-sector independent provider specialising in the creative industries. Sam is…
Read MoreSarah Percy-Dove
Member, Investment Committee Sarah is currently a stay-at-home daughter caring for her mum. Most recently she was managing director, head of Asia Pacific fixed income research within BlackRock’s Asia Pacific Active Investments Group. She holds a Bachelor of Business (Banking & Finance) from Monash University and a Master of Business Administration from Melbourne Business School.…
Read MoreSDWM
Sean Linkson OAM (he/him)
Founding Patron Sean is one of the four Co-founders of Pinnacle along with Philip Comans, his partner of 20+ years, Susan Brooks, and their long-term friend Paul Clark. Inspired by the Point Foundation in the US, Sean, Philip, and Paul and Susan set up Pinnacle with pro bono help from Herbert Smith Freehills Lawyers and…
Read MoreSerco
Serco supports governments around the world to deliver essential public services. Serco announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation in 2021. The Serco Scholarship is awarded to a student ideally studying in one of the following fields: facilities management, asset management, digital, technology, data analytics, nursing or allied health.
Read MoreShane Lloyd
Shell
Shell’s goal is to become one of the world’s most diverse and inclusive companies and is committed to advancing LGBTQIA+ inclusion. We want Shell to be a place where everyone feels valued, respected, has a strong sense of belonging and can bring their whole selves to work. Shell announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation…
Read MoreSHK
SHK is an Asia Pacific executive search and outplacement firm. It is a long-standing champion of diversity and inclusion. SHK announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation in 2018. The SHK Scholarship is awarded to a student studying in a commercial discipline in Victoria.
Read MoreSidney Myer Fund
The Sidney Myer Fund announced its multi-year support of The Pinnacle Foundation in 2021. Sidney Myer was a generous philanthropist in his lifetime. He left a portion of his estate upon his death in 1934 to be invested for the benefit of the community, noting, “I am not a politician; I do not seek publicity,…
Read MoreSophie Ellul (she/her)
Financial Accountant Sophie is a qualified accountant (CPA) with substantial experience encompassing both industry and business services roles. Sophie has over 20 years of experience in end to end accounting and proven capability in process improvements, managing projects and creating meaningful partnerships both within the organisation and with key external contacts. This is coupled with…
Read MoreSpencer Maurice
Stephen Barrow-Yu
Steven Deveraux Stanford
Susan Brooks OAM (she/her)
Co-Founder Susan has extensive experience in managing regulatory risks and consumer issues from within executive government, statutory administrative bodies and the financial services sector. She holds a Bachelor of Economics and a Master of Law. “Back in the Seventies, I was a beneficiary of the Labor Government’s new approach to university entrance, so I understand…
Read MoreSusan Darroch
Member, Investment Committee Susan is an investment professional, her career spanning over 30 years in financial markets. Her more recent roles include non-executive director of AVSuper and High Trees Primary School and advisor to the Investment Committee of HESTA. Susan was head of global equity beta solutions Asia Pacific ex Japan at State Street Global…
Read MoreSuzanne Jones (she/her)
Non-Executive Director BA (Contemporary Music) Southern Cross University A dynamic and commercial executive in the world of theatre and live events, Suzanne has been actively involved in the theatre industry for more than two decades. As CEO and producer of the Jones Theatrical Group, and executive producer with Crossroads Live, Suzanne is committed to attracting…
Read MoreTalentplicity Consulting
Talentplicity Consulting is an ICT professional services company with a mission to make the talent-searching process simple. It promotes equal employment opportunities, regardless of background or circumstance. The Huseyin Tasdemir Scholarship, named in honour of Talentplicity Consulting founder, Nic Cerny’s father, is open to all scholarship applicants.
Read MoreTanya Matthewson
TasNetworks
The Alan Joyce AC & Shane Lloyd Scholarship
The Alan Joyce AC and Shane Lloyd Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Allan Howard Scholarship
The Allan Howard Scholarship is open to Pinnacle scholarship applicants from rural or regional Australia.
Read MoreThe Andrew Staite Scholarship
The Andrew Staite Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Anthony-Whitney Scholarship
The Anthony-Whitney Scholarship is open to applicants who are undertaking degree studies in either music or history.
Read MoreThe Australian Marriage Equality Scholarship
This scholarship was created through an enduring impact grant from AME, and will be awarded in perpetuity to celebrate the achievement of marriage equality and the efforts of so many to get us there. It will be awarded annually, ideally to an Indigenous or Torres Strait Islander scholar or a scholar from rural, regional or…
Read MoreThe Berg Family Foundation Scholarship
The Berg Family Foundation Scholarship is open to eligible applicants who are Indigenous or first in family to undertake higher education or from rural or remote Australia.
Read MoreThe Bill Chambers Scholarships
Two Bill Chambers Scholarships are open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants. The third and fourth Bill Chambers Scholarships are open to all Western Australian scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Cath Leary Social Justice Foundation
The Clark Family Foundation
The Clark Walton Scholarship
The Clark Walton Scholarship is for a student studying architecture, design, planning or visual and creative arts at either TAFE or university level.
Read MoreThe Darryl Wild Scholarship
The Darryl Wild Scholarship is for a student studying Marketing at an approved tertiary institution.
Read MoreThe Don Dunstan AC QC Scholarship
The Don Dunstan AC QC Scholarship, proudly created by Sam Harvey, is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Dr Craig White & Rod Anderson Scholarship
The Dr Craig White and Rod Anderson Scholarship is for Tasmanian Pinnacle scholarship applicants who are first in family to attend university.
Read MoreThe Dr Vinay Kumar Scholarship
The Dr Vinay Kumar Scholarship is awarded to students studying either medicine or a performing arts discipline.
Read MoreThe Duncan Peerman & Paul Zahra Scholarship
The Duncan Peerman and Paul Zahra Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Frank Ford AM & Sam Harvey Scholarship
The Frank Ford AM and Sam Harvey Scholarship is open to students from South Australia who are studying performing arts, technical theatre or arts management in South Australia.
Read MoreThe Fred P Archer Charitable Trust
Perpetual, as trustee for The Fred P Archer Charitable Trust, awarded funds to The Pinnacle Foundation in 2023. The Fred P Archer Charitable Trust Scholarship is open to all scholarship applicants from rural, regional and remote parts of Australia.
Read MoreThe Geoffrey Smith & Gary Singer Scholarship
The Geoffrey Smith & Gary Singer Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Grahame Williams Scholarship
The Grahame Williams Scholarship is open to eligible scholars studying in the fields of science, agriculture or medicine.
Read MoreThe Greg Livingstone Scholarship
The Greg Livingstone Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Harvey Milk Scholarship
The Harvey Milk Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Hon Michael Kirby AC CMG (he/him)
Michael Kirby was Australia’s longest serving judge before his retirement from the High Court in February 2009. He is a strong advocate of human rights, including for women, young people and sexual minorities. A hero to all in the LGBT community, we are very proud and honoured to have Michael as our first Patron. When…
Read MoreThe Hon Michael Kirby AC CMG Scholarship
The Hon Michael Kirby AC CMG Scholarship is open to Pinnacle scholarship applicants studying law.
Read MoreThe Honourable Justice Thomas Bradley
The Pinnacle Foundation’s first Queensland-based ambassador, Justice Bradley is a judge of the Supreme Court of Queensland. His Honour was born in Cairns. He was educated at St Bernard’s School and Clairvaux College in Brisbane and graduated from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Laws. He was admitted as a solicitor, after completing…
Read MoreThe James Collins & Tony Nelson Scholarship
The James Collins and Tony Nelson Scholarship is for a student keen to pursue studies in Science, Digital or Aviation.
Read MoreThe John Goldbaum Scholarship
The John Goldbaum Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Justin D’Agostino MH & KC Yeo Scholarship
The Justin D’Agostino MH and KC Yeo Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Lewis Foundation
The Matthew McCarron Rainbow Scholarship is awarded annually to honour one of Australia’s most influential LGBTQIA+ corporate leaders. Matthew was passionate about creating inclusive and high performing workplaces and sadly lost his brave battle against brain cancer in 2023. The Matthew McCarron Rainbow Scholarship is open to all scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Maurice Joyce Scholarship
The Maurice Joyce Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants who are studying in the fields of science or mathematics.
Read MoreThe Michael Gorman Scholarships
The Michael Gorman Scholarships (2) are open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Mike Gordon Scholarships
The Mike Gordon Scholarships (2) are awarded to rural, regional and remote scholars studying: in artistic fields (to be a voice); science, technology, engineering, arts or maths fields (to sustain the land they come from); and humanities fields (enhancing the quality of life in the community).
Read MoreThe Murray J. Collins – The City Gardener Scholarship
The Murray J. Collins – the City Gardener Scholarship is open to students from country Victoria. Ideally, they will seek to study in the fields of agriculture, horticulture or landscape design.
Read MoreThe Olrem Scholarships (x12)
Nine Olrem Scholarships are open to Pinnacle scholarship applicants from Western Australia, and three are open to Pinnacle scholarship applicants nationally.
Read MoreThe Peter Brennan AM & Michael Lynch Scholarships (x2)
The Peter Brennan AM and Michael Lynch Scholarships are open to students ideally studying at The University of Western Sydney.
Read MoreThe Pierce Armstrong Foundation
The Pippa Downes Scholarship
The Pippa Downes Scholarship is for an athlete competing or training at the national level and aspiring to represent Australia whilst also pursuing their full-time academic goals, or for an Indigenous student.
Read MoreThe Reg Holloway Scholarship
The Reg Holloway Scholarship is open to a student wishing to pursue a career in music.
Read MoreThe Ros & Diana Coffey Scholarship
The Ros and Diana Coffey Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Sam Smith Scholarship powered by UnLtd
Social purpose organization UnLtd rallied the media, marketing and creative industry to create The Sam Smith Scholarship. The scholarship honours one of the most energetic, driven and generous men to work in the digital media industry, who sadly lost his battle to brain cancer in 2020. It is awarded to students studying in the fields…
Read MoreThe Selig Family Scholarship
The Selig Family Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Shelley Argent OAM Scholarship
This scholarship is open to any student studying at a Brisbane educational facility.
Read MoreThe Sir James McNeill Trust
The Sir James McNeill Trust
The Sir James McNeill Trust is proud to award three scholarships for young LGBTQIA+ Australians to realise their full potential and overcome challenges arising from their identity. The Sir James McNeill Trust Scholarships are open to all scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Snow Foundation Scholarship
The Snow Foundation Scholarship is for a student studying or living in the ACT/Canberra Region and undertaking a course at an approved tertiary institution.
Read MoreThe St.George Foundation
The St.George Foundation supports community organisations to improve the lives of Australian youth who are physically, socially or economically disadvantaged. The St.George Foundation has been a long-term partner of The Pinnacle Foundation. The St.George Foundation Scholarship is open to all scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe Sydney Community Foundation, Peter Brennan AM & Michael Lynch Fund Scholarship
The Sydney Community Foundation, Peter Brennan AM & Michael Lynch Fund Scholarship is open to students ideally who have grown up in Western Sydney.
Read MoreThe Tea Uglow Scholarship
The Tea Uglow Scholarship is open to trans students who lack family support.
Read MoreThe Tom Snow Scholarship
The Tom Snow Scholarship is open to all Pinnacle scholarship applicants.
Read MoreThe University of Sydney Business School
The Vitaly Osipov Scholarships (x2)
The Vitaly Osipov Scholarships are open to scholars studying in STEM fields.
Read MoreThe Yarranabbe Foundation Scholarship
The Yarranabbe Foundation Scholarship is open to eligible applicants studying in the fields of business, law or engineering.
Read MoreThomas Wooden
Tim Lai (he/him)
Marketing Manager Tim has over 25 years of experience working in the retail technology and professional services space. Tim was appointed The Pinnacle Foundation’s Marketing Manager in 2019, after having worked with intelligence provider, Mi9, where he served as Asia Pacific Director. Tim’s previous tenures also provided retail, marketing, technology and strategic leadership to Crumpler,…
Read MoreTimothy Stutt
Company Secretary Tim is a senior associate in Herbert Smith Freehills’ head office advisory team (HOAT), where he advises publicly listed companies on corporations law, governance, executive remuneration and shareholder engagement/activism matters. Tim holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Hitotsubashi University in Tokyo, and Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Commerce degrees…
Read MoreTLC Healthcare
TLC Healthcare’s mission is to be the leader in innovative and integrated healthcare and renowned for providing wellbeing to its communities. It values respect, diversity and treating each other with courtesy and care. TLC Healthcare became a Pinnacle Foundation partner in 2022. The TLC Healthcare Scholarship is open to eligible Victorian students studying in healthcare…
Read MoreTom Barham (he/him)
Queensland Committee Chair Tom has several years’ experience in professional services, delivering risk, compliance, and learning solutions to a range of clients throughout Australia and New Zealand. As a Director in PwC’s GRC practice, Tom leads the PwC Training Academy and has also previously held a role as the Queensland lead for GLEE, PwC’s LGBTIQ+…
Read MoreUnLtd:
Virtus Health
Warren Perumal
Wayne Porritt
Queensland Committee Chair Wayne has been an avid supporter of the LGBTIQ+ community, through mentoring and leadership advocate positions. He previously chaired Standard Chartered Bank’s Diversity & Inclusion Network and co-founded the Bank’s LGBT Affinity Network. Wayne is currently Queensland Committee Chair of The Pinnacle Foundation; an organisation which is committed to helping LGBTIQ+ young…
Read MoreWPP AU NZ
WPP AUNZ is the region’s leading creative transformation agency, and part of the global powerhouse, WPP. WPP AUNZ announced its multi-year support for The Pinnacle Foundation in 2021. The WPP AUNZ Scholarship is open to all scholarship applicants.
Read More