Trixie Makay appointed Board Chair of Communities at Work 

Communities at Work is pleased to announce the appointment of Trixie Makay as Chair of its Board,  welcoming a highly experienced leader with deep expertise across government, professional services,  governance and human services as the organisation enters a pivotal period of growth, innovation and  expanded community impact. 

A Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD), Ms Makay brings more than 35 years’ experience across the public and private sectors. This includes 20 years in senior Australian Government roles  and more than 16 years in leadership positions in Canberra. As a consultant, she has led major reforms across health and human services programs, developing strong expertise in governance, strategy, organisational  transformation and sustainable service delivery. 

Ms Makay’s appointment strengthens Communities at Work’s leadership at an important time for the  organisation. She brings a genuine commitment to the organisation’s purpose, a strong understanding of  community needs, and a clear focus on creating meaningful and lasting outcomes for the people and  communities Communities at Work supports. 

Among the organisation’s key upcoming initiatives is the Garran Early Learning and Intervention Centre, which  will commence operations on 10 September 2026. The centre will provide early learning, intervention and  family support for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Global Developmental Delay, helping families  access specialised early learning support close to home. 

Communities at Work is also preparing for Galilee School’s annual Black Friday Ball on 27 November 2026. The  fundraising event supports students in Years 7–12 who have experienced adversity and benefit from a flexible, highly supported approach to education. The organisation is inviting the Canberra community to get involved  and help create positive opportunities for young people. 

Looking further ahead, Communities at Work will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2027, marking five decades  of supporting people, strengthening communities and contributing to a more connected and inclusive Canberra. 

Ms Makay’s governance expertise, reform experience and deep understanding of human services will support  the Board as Communities at Work continues to evolve its services, respond to changing community needs and  plan for long-term sustainability. 

Under this next phase of leadership, Communities at Work will continue to be guided by its values and its  commitment to delivering safe, sustainable and high-quality services that enable our communities to connect and thrive.