Frontier Services announces its new National Director
Dave Parker's extensive executive experience and heart for the gospel make him an outstanding fit for the strategy and future of Frontier Services
April 17, 2026
The Board of Frontier Services has announced the appointment of Mr Dave Parker as its new National Director, marking an important moment of renewal and growth for Australia’s oldest bush charity.
Mr Parker brings significant executive experience in managing a diverse and complex portfolio of responsibilities. He joins Frontier Services from Scripture Union Australia, where he held a broad portfolio spanning public advocacy, donor relations, fundraising, marketing and communications, as well as coordinating chaplaincy services and supporting volunteers. In that role, he led geographically dispersed teams through major organisational and cultural change.
The Board described Mr Parker as an “outstanding fit” for the organisation’s future, expressing confidence in his ability to help expand key areas of ministry. These include new Bush Chaplaincy placements, strengthening First Peoples’ Chaplaincy, and growing volunteer engagement through Outback Links. Across isolated stations and farms, small outback towns, and communities recovering from drought, fire and flood, Frontier Services continues to offer practical assistance, pastoral care and spiritual support.
“I am excited and honoured to be joining the Frontier Services team ... alongside our supporters, volunteers and ministry partners we will continue to innovate and strengthen our services to provide much needed practical, pastoral and spiritual support to rural and remote communities.”
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Mr Parker expressed his delight at being appointed to the role. “I am excited and honoured to be joining the Frontier Services team, and to lead the organisation whose profound legacy continues to support those in the furthest corners of our nation,” he said. “Alongside our supporters, volunteers and ministry partners we will continue to innovate and strengthen our services to provide much needed practical, pastoral and spiritual support to rural and remote communities.”
“I look forward to leading this incredible organisation into its next chapter of impact and heartfelt service,” he added.
Assembly General Secretary Andrew Johnson welcomed the appointment, noting the significance of the moment for the organisation. “The Frontier Services Board and the Assembly Standing Committee are thrilled to welcome Dave to this national leadership role,” he said. “Frontier Services has over a century of standing with people in the Bush. Dave’s appointment will continue the strategic leadership of Rob Floyd and bring fresh energy and inspiration to our ministry and mission in remote Australia.”
The appointment comes at a time of opportunity for Frontier Services, as it seeks new and innovative ways to serve rural and remote communities across the life of the Uniting Church – offering compassionate care, working for justice, and nurturing the spirit.
Mr Parker will commence in late May 2026, with a handover period alongside interim National Director Rev Lindsay Cullen through to the end of the month.
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