Historic first gathering for New National Commission

The Assembly’s new Commission for Governance, Resourcing and Administration met for the first time, beginning a vital journey of renewal, connection, and faithful stewardship across the life of the Church

July 19, 2025

by Michelle Farrall, Interim Executive Officer of the Commission for Governance, Resourcing and Administration

The Uniting Church in Australia's Commission for Governance, Resourcing and Administration came together for the very first time on 8 July 2025 in Melbourne, marking a significant milestone in the Church's renewal journey following the 17th Assembly.

It was an enriching day where members got to know one another, grounded in shared hope for the Uniting Church. The meeting included worship and reflection on the journey to this point, embracing the Assembly's mandate to realise the vision:

A network of deeply connected councils responding to God's call to enter more fully into mission through healthy oversight of ministry and mission, celebrating our diverse and shared identity, being faithful stewards of our common life and wealth.

Commission members discussed the need to understand the current responsibilities and resourcing among the councils of the Church, and to invite perspectives and feedback from across the life of the Church. The group holds the diversity of engagement with God's call across the Church together with fostering faithful stewardship and connection.

Members include Chair Rev David Fotheringham, Rev Dr Adam McIntosh, Alison Xamon, Rev Jane Fry, Rev Janet Staines, Rev Jay Robinson, Rev Sue Page, Anton van Bavel, Emily Evans, Rev Peter Overton, Scott McDonald, Rev Stephanie Tai; Dr Jessica Hateley-Browne and Mark Waters (UnitingCare Australia); Kym Korbe and Nathan Tyson (Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress); with Assembly President Rev Charissa Suli and Assembly General Secretary Andrew Johnson as associated non-voting members. The Commission unanimously agreed to co-opt three members: Dr Myles McGregor-Lowndes, Lt Cl Rev Alamoti Lavaki and Rev David Dong Won Kim. All three have agreed to join.

The Commission, under Chair David Fotheringham's leadership, humbly asks for people across the Uniting Church to continue praying as they undertake this important work. The next meeting is planned for October, with further updates to be shared in due course.

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