The Juvenile Arthritis Foundation Australia is continuing its search for a new Chief Executive Officer to guide the organisation into its next phase of impact and growth.
As a nationally recognised, award-winning charity, JAFA has built a strong reputation for championing the needs of children and young people living with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and related rheumatic diseases, along with their families. Despite its small size, the organisation has had a big impact, shaping national conversations around care, research, and equity.
This leadership transition follows the announcement that Angela McKay will step down after five years at the helm. Her tenure has been marked by meaningful progress across advocacy, research, and system reform. Under her guidance, JAFA strengthened its voice as a national advocate, pushing for equitable access to care and advancing research initiatives to improve outcomes for young people. Her leadership helped position the organisation as a credible and influential force within Australia’s health landscape.
The incoming CEO will inherit an organisation with clear strategic momentum and an ambitious agenda. JAFA is focused on improving access to timely and high-quality care, amplifying the voices of patients and families, and accelerating research into better treatments, prevention strategies, and ultimately a cure. The role is being advertised nationally and offers commitment to attracting a leader with both strategic vision and a deep passion for advancing health outcomes.
Recognition of JAFA’s impact has grown in recent years. The organisation was named Small Charity of the Year at the 2025 Third Sector Awards, reflecting its effectiveness as a national voice for the approximately 30,000 children and young people in Australia affected by juvenile arthritis. Its advocacy efforts have led to tangible outcomes, including the instigation of a Parliamentary Inquiry into paediatric rheumatology services and the successful leveraging of funding through the Medical Research Future Fund.
JAFA has also played a central role in advancing practical initiatives that directly improve care. The launch of the Australian Juvenile Arthritis Registry and efforts to expand the paediatric rheumatology workforce are key examples. These initiatives form part of the organisation’s Early Diagnosis Program, which aims to reduce the average diagnosis time from 10 months to 10 weeks by 2030. Achieving this goal would significantly improve long-term outcomes, reducing the risk of irreversible joint damage and complications such as vision loss.
The foundation’s mission has been strongly shaped by its founder, Professor Ruth Colagiuri, whose advocacy underscores the urgency of early diagnosis and effective treatment. With continued support from federal and state governments, JAFA said it will continue to raise awareness and secure the resources needed to address gaps in care and support.
