Karen Struthers joins True as new CEO

We’re delighted to announce that Karen Struthers has been appointed as our new CEO. 

Karen’s background and values make her a wonderful fit for our organisation.

Her professional experience has spanned senior leadership, policy, advocacy, and research in civil society and government, including roles as a Member of Parliament and Minister for Community Services, Housing and Women. 

A hallmark of Karen’s career is the impact she has made with peers on law, policy and service system reform in child and youth wellbeing, women’s economic security, health, and violence prevention. 

She has a Bachelor of Social Work (Hons) from the University of Queensland and a Graduate Certificate in Business, a Master of Public Sector Management (Hons), and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from Griffith University. She is also a Board Member of the Menzies Health Institute, home to more than 200 clinicians and researchers

She is optimistic that health inequities can be overcome, violence against women is preventable and that young people can develop healthier relationships. 

Karen’s genuine respect for True and our partner organisations, her knowledge of the sector, and her ability to bring people together are what made Karen stand out in the recruitment process. 

As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we’re proud to have Karen at the helm leading us into our next 50 years.