COTA Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Older Men: New Ideas (OM:NI) men’s discussion groups are a place for all men aged 50 and over to meet each other in an informal, social environment to share their knowledge and experiences. OM:NI men’s discussion groups have been running in Victoria since 2004, and are now found across Melbourne and in some regional areas. Most local OM:NI men’s discussion groups meet monthly or fortnightly, where a facilitator helps to lead the group in an informal discussion. Participants are expected to listen to each other and follow the OM:NI Group Guidelines of confidentiality, acceptance and respect.

POSITION OBJECTIVE

COTA Victoria’s OM:NI Advisory Group (OAG) is an advisory committee to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The purpose of the OAG is to:

• provide strategic advice to the CEO and organisation on the OM:NI program’s strategy, maintenance and development in Victoria,
• support the CEO and organisation in their implementation of the OM:NI program to enhance the lives of older men,
• support evaluation and reporting of the OM:NI program to enhance its effectiveness.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

COTA Victoria is seeking up to 6 independent community members to join the committee, noting that at least 50% of independent members should be active OM:NI group participants and/or representatives. As a member of this committee, your role is to assist the CEO and COTA Victoria staff by:

1. identifying systemic issues and trends relating to Victorian OM:NI groups;
2. supporting COTA Victoria in its efforts to manage and expand the OM:NI program through identifying opportunities for growth;
3. supporting regular two-way communication between OM:NI groups and the OAG.
4. providing COTA Victoria with advice on matters of importance to older men.

Meetings may be conducted face-to-face, via web or teleconference, or a combination of these methods depending upon the needs and circumstances of members. The group will communicate via email as required. 

TIME COMMITMENT

The details for the appointment of Committee members are that:  

1. appointment to the committee will be for a period of 2 years; and,  

2. committee members may serve a maximum of three terms. 

The OAG will meet on a quarterly basis. Special meetings may be called at the discretion of the Chairperson. 

Members will need to be able to commit to these quarterly meetings, preparation time, and occasional requests to respond via email. There will also be an opportunity to participate in occasional special projects sub-working groups.  

Please click the link for Position Description