inTouch, Australia’s leading specialist family violence provider dedicated to supporting migrant and
refugee women and their communities is delighted to announce the appointment of Rasha Abbas as
its new Chief Executive Officer from 25 September 2023.
Ms Abbas joins the team with extensive experience in the financial services sector, along with
community service experience as a member of the Digital Strategy Board Committee at the Children
Medical Research Institute (CMRI). Ms Abbas is also strongly connected to refugee and orphan
education and wellbeing, both here and overseas, through organisations such as Olive Kids.
inTouch Board Chair, Miriam Silva AM shared her enthusiasm for Rasha’s appointment: “Rasha
Abbas brings an exceptional blend of strategic insight and operational acumen to inTouch. Her
distinguished career in financial services, coupled with her extensive leadership experience
overseeing large teams of up to 1,400 staff and demonstrated commitment to community
betterment, makes her an ideal leader for our organisation.”
“We have full confidence in Ms Abbas’s expertise to lead the team as we press forward with the
urgent and vital work of supporting women on temporary visas facing family violence,” Ms Silva said.
“Over 40% of women we support who experience family violence are on temporary visas. Our focus
includes providing immediate in-language, in-culture services and essential necessities such as food,
safety, legal support, and tackling challenges related to housing crisis, cost of living, and migration
laws.”
Rasha Abbas shared her excitement about joining inTouch: “I am honored to take on the role of CEO
at inTouch. The organisation’s commitment to supporting migrant and refugee women and their
communities is deeply inspiring. I look forward to working closely with the team to drive positive
change and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve.”
Before joining inTouch, Ms Abbas had an extensive career in the financial services sector, holding
senior executive roles with CBA, NAB and ANZ.
Ms Silva extended the Board’s gratitude to Maryum Chaudhry, Executive Manager, Sector and
Community, who served as Acting CEO during the transition: “We would like to express our heartfelt
appreciation to Maryum Chaudhry for her exceptional leadership during this interim period. Her
dedication and contributions have been invaluable in ensuring the continued success of our
organisation.”
With Rasha Abbas at the helm, inTouch is poised to enhance its role as a pivotal player in the family
violence response system. The organisation remains devoted to its vital mission of providing
specialised expertise to individuals from migrant and refugee backgrounds, contributing to the
overall wellbeing and resilience of these communities.
“inTouch is growing in significance, scope, and capacity and Rasha’s leadership will further elevate
our ability to create lasting impact,” added Ms Silva.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Ben McAlary
McAlary Media
ben@mcalarymedia.com
0417351724
Download the full media release here.
