Krystie Bremer - Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) Course

Krystie Bremer, an experienced professional with expertise in administration, finance, leadership and project management, recently set out to enhance her understanding of governance and improve the performance of the volunteer-led community committees she serves. Through the Rural and Regional Advancement Foundation (RRAF) of the Mt Burdett Foundation, Krystie received a grant to undertake the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) course through online learning. 

Krystie was motivated by the desire to build governance knowledge that could strengthen the foundations of small, volunteer-run community committees. Through her own involvement in these committees, Krystie has identified a need for stronger structures, policies and leadership to help them thrive in the long term. 

“The motivation to undertake this course stemmed from a desire to further develop my understanding of governance practices... and to translate those into tangible improvements within these volunteer organisations,” Krystie shared.

Through the course, Krystie gained clarity on the distinction between managing a group and governing one, a challenge that is often blurred in small communities. 

“Governance is not management. The course gave me the tools to help committees focus on governing with the right policies and structures in place.”

Krystie also explored topics such as:

• Board decision-making and individual liability 

• The importance of setting a risk appetite, even in not-for-profit organisations

• How to recruit the right people to serve on a board, not just fill seats

• The value of inclusive, strategic leadership that hears all voices 

Krystie immediately began implementing her learnings- engaging with committee executives, reviewing policies and initiating practical changes to support long-term sustainability. 

Krystie reflected on the application process and partnership with the Mt Burdett Foundation: “Working with the Mt Burdett Foundation was an easy and enjoyable process, particularly as this was an individual application, something I hadn’t done before.” With this expertise under her belt, Krystie sees potential for future collaborations between the Foundation and other community groups across regional and remote Western Australia. 

Krystie’s story is a perfect example of what the Mt Burdett Foundation aims to support: people with purpose, building stronger communities from within.

By investing in individuals who want to lead with integrity and skill, the Foundation helps create a ripple effect of positive change across rural and regional WA.

To learn more about individual funding opportunities through the Rural and Regional Advancement Foundation, visit: mtburdettfoundation.org.au/rural-and-regional