Governance Advisory Groups
Express your Interest
Join with us and contribute to the mission of the Church
The Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle extends a warm invitation to journey with us together in faith, respectful dialogue and shared discernment as we establish our new Councils, Boards and Committees.
With a refreshed governance structure that honours both civil and Church law, we are creating new Councils, Boards and Committees that remain faithful to the teachings and mission of the Church as well as help shape the future of our Diocese.
These groups will work in a synodal way. They will be collaborative, offer robust dialogue and be deeply rooted in our shared mission.
Detail about each of the Councils, Boards and Committees can be found on these pages and we welcome expressions of interest from people across our Diocese who feel called to contribute their wisdom, skills and passion.
Each advisory group will be heard in its area of expertise and provide advice to the Bishop and Diocesan Trustees for critical discernment.
This is an opportunity to share your gifts and experience while contributing to the mission of the church.
Governance Structure of the Diocese
In the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, we have been working on a new Diocesan Governance Structure, which reflects extensive consultation, careful review, and our commitment to working as Many parts, One body, One mission.
The new structure considers both civil and church law, and is designed to foster greater collaboration, transparency and synodal leadership. The revision of our Diocesan Governance Structure is part of what the Church refers to as Structures of Participation. The new advisory boards and councils that will make up our Governance Structure will operate in a synodal mode.
Overall, these changes aim to enhance accountability and unity across our work. We will have our new advisory groups meeting from February 2026.
Read more about synodality at the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle here.
This diagram to the right depicts how the various advisory boards and councils will support and advise the Bishop and Trustees in their decisions.
FAQs
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What is the process if I would like to express my interest in a role on one of the advisory groups?
To express your interest to be part of our advisory groups, candidates are required to go through the following mandatory steps.
- Complete the online EOI form before 8 December 2025.
- Be available to attend an online Information Evening – Wednesday 10 December at 6pm (time subject to change).
- Be available to attend a Formation & Discernment Day in person in Chisholm on Saturday, 13 December.
- Individual inductions will take place in January.
- The first meetings are scheduled for February 2026. Please see each page for dates of Council and Board meetings in 2026.
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What is the deadline for expressions of interest to be a member of the advisory groups?
Expressions of interest for the Councils and Advisory Boards will close on 8 December 2025, 11:59pm.
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What are the eligibility criteria for being a member of a Diocese advisory group?
The criteria for each advisory group is outlined on the relevant page. Please use the buttons on this page.
Councils
Diocesan Pastoral Council (DPC)
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Diocesan Finance Council
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Diocesan Governance Council
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Diocesan Safeguarding Council
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Community and Wellbeing Advisory Board
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Catholic Community Fund Advisory Board
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Education Advisory Board
Find Out MoreExpress your interest now
We would like to invite members of our community to express their interest in participating in our advisory groups. If your skills and experience align with the requirements, please complete this online form today.
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