MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release, 23 March 2021
Domestic Violence NSW (DVNSW), the peak body for specialist domestic and family violence services in the state, is pleased to announce the appointment of Annabelle Daniel OAM as Chair of the DVNSW Board. Annabelle will succeed Helen Silvia, who held the Chair position for three years.
‘It has been an honour to Chair DVNSW over the last three years and I welcome Annabelle to the role and thank her for all her work as former Vice Chair,’ said Helen.
Annabelle brings with her 20 years of leadership experience in the social sector and specific expertise in discrimination and family law.
As CEO of Women’s Community Shelters, Annabelle has worked with local communities around NSW to establish and open six shelters in as many years at Hornsby, Forster, Castle Hill, Penrith, Bayside and Parramatta, with two more in development. She has collaborated with a range of organisations, individuals and stakeholders, from the community and all levels of government to achieve change in the field of homelessness for women and children. A key role in Annabelle’s career was as Manager of Elsie, Australia’s longest-established women’s shelter, providing services and support to women and children experiencing homelessness and escaping domestic violence.
“I am absolutely honoured to be chosen by my peers to Chair the Board of DV NSW. This organisation’s strength lies in its diverse, professional membership, wonderfully skilled and knowledgeable staff, and committed Board colleagues. It’s been extraordinary watching the organisation go from strength to strength over the last few years, and I look forward to helping consolidate that success in my new role.’
Delia Donovan, CEO of Domestic Violence NSW, says ‘we are thrilled to be continuing our work with Annabelle as Chair and excited for our next phase and journey. We thank Helen Silvia for all her work and support over the last three years. We also look forward to continuing our work with Helen as a key board member.’
Kelly Lamb will be taking the position of Vice Chair and has served on DVNSW’s Board since 2019. Kelly is the CEO of Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services in Port Macquarie on the Mid North Coast of NSW.
Kelly has more than 20 years’ experience leading organisations in both the not-for-profit and corporate sectors in regional areas across Australia. Kelly has held several volunteer positions in her local community focused on supporting and celebrating women, including as past President of a business women’s network, co-founder of the renowned annual International Women’s Day event, and co-designer of a women’s mentoring program.
“I am grateful to have been appointed Vice Chair after several years on the Board. I am looking forward to bringing my professional experience and personal passion to the role, and working with Annabelle, the Board and the team at DVNSW during this critical time for the domestic and family violence sector,” Kelly said.
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Media Contacts
Caitlin Morahan, Media & Communications Manager DVNSW: 0466 813 124
Arlia Fleming, Community Legal Centres NSW: 0404 186 347
Christine Robinson, Wirringa Baiya Aboriginal Women’s Legal Centre: 0429 326 005
Philippa Davis, Women’s Legal Service NSW: 0422 427 699
Martha Jabour OAM, Executive Director, Homicide Victims’ Support Group (Aust) Inc. Ph: 1800 191 777
Domestic Violence NSW is the peak body for specialist domestic and family violence services in NSW. DVNSW provides a representative and advocacy function for specialist services and the women, families and communities they support. Their mission is to eliminate domestic and family violence through leadership in policy, advocacy, partnerships and the promotion of best practice.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence help can be found via:
1800RESPECT or 1800 737 732 which offers a national counselling helpline, information and support
NSW Domestic Violence Line 1800 65 64 63 which offers a state-wide counselling helpline, information and support
Men’s Referral Service 1300 766 491 for men, or friends and family of men using violence
