Overcoming Hurdles in the NFP Sector: Sustaining Engagement in a Changing Landscape

Date: 4th March 2025
Time: 4pm - 6pm (ACDT) 
Location: Level 9, 63 Pirie Street, Adelaide 5000

Join us for an insightful panel discussion exploring the challenges and opportunities within the Not-for-Profit (NFP) sector. The discussion will focus on the hurdles faced by NFPs and how they continue to sustain engagement with funding bodies and donors and the key challenges faced by NFPs in operating in an increasingly regulated and competitive environment.

P R E S E N T E R S 

Aaron Chia
Aaron Chia is the Chief Executive Officer of Guide Dogs SA/NT and has previously held leadership positions with prominent organisations across different sectors in South Australia and Victoria. He is the former CEO of the Motor Accident Commission (MAC) in SA, and former Deputy CEO of the SA Ambulance Service. His current External Board and Committee memberships include CBB (Community Business Bureau) Incorporated (Board Chair); YourPlace Housing Limited (Board Chair); SA Fire and Emergency Services Commission Risk and Performance Committee (Chair) and the SA Regional Committee of The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust (Member).

Elaine Bensted 
Elaine Bensted is the Chief Executive of Zoos SA, overseeing Adelaide Zoo and Monarto Safari Park. With a strong background in government, finance, and conservation, Elaine has driven the organisation's growth since 2012 and will be retiring in April 2025. Her leadership emphasises biodiversity protection and education. Elaine holds an MBA, a Master’s in Public Policy, and qualifications in accounting and finance. She also serves as President of the Zoos & Aquarium Association (ZAA) and is a board member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Elaine is dedicated to fostering global conservation efforts and inspiring community action.

Damien Marangon
Damien is the current Chief Executive Officer of Surf Life Saving SA, a Non-Executive Director and an experienced sports leader with a Masters in Sports Management and a graduate of AICD. Previously he held the role as CEO of Shooting Australia, sat on the Board of Commonwealth Games Australia for over five years and is currently a Director for the newly formed Combat Institute of Australia. Damien is passionate about people and leading with care and empathy and his skill was previously recognised by the AIS when he won the Leadership Award at the Australian Sport Performance Awards.