Governance

Strong Leadership and Governance

The Central Australian Aboriginal Alcohol Programmes Unit (CAAAPU) is an Aboriginal Corporation that has been providing a place of health, hope and healing  for Aboriginal people in Central Australia since 1991.


Governed under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006, CAAAPU is committed to strong cultural leadership, transparency, and accountability in everything we do.


Our governance is built on:

A dedicated leadership structure

Comprising a Board of Directors and a skilled Management Team, working together to ensure CAAAPU’s operations align with our mission and values.

Integrated planning and reporting

CAAAPU operates under a robust governance framework that includes strategic planning, regular Board meetings, internal reviews, and transparent annual reporting.



 Recent audits and accreditation reviews have commended CAAAPU for its strong governance and organisational integrity.

Governance Structure

Board of Directors

The Board meets bi-monthly and provides cultural and strategic direction to ensure CAAAPU continues to deliver safe, effective, and culturally grounded care to Aboriginal people and families.

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Michael Liddle

Chairperson

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Quinton (Que) Kenny

Director

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Dawn Ross

Director

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Justine Swan

Director

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Dr Jeff Brownscombe

Independent Non-Member Director

Management Team

The Management Team leads day-to-day operations, staff development, and program delivery, ensuring that every aspect of CAAAPU’s work supports our vision of empowering Aboriginal people to live healthy, meaningful lives free from alcohol and substance misuse.

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Demian Coates

Chief Executive Officer

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Hassan Tariq

Treatment Manager

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Ciara Hood

Business Administration Manager

Board Membership Opportunities

CAAAPU is built on the Health, Hope and Healing of our community. Every day, we walk alongside individuals and families on their healing journeys—guided by culture, grounded in community, and committed to creating safer, healthier futures. To continue this important work, we are inviting passionate and dedicated individuals to become Members of our Board.


As a Board Member, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of our organisation. Your voice, experience, and leadership will help ensure that our services remain culturally strong, effective, and responsive to the needs of our community.

We welcome applications for membership from people who meet the following criteria;

  • at least 18 years old;
  • an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person
  • resident within the Central Australia region in which the corporation operates
  • willing to maintain responsible alcohol use habits and to abstain from substance abuse

If you believe in community-led healing and want to help guide the direction of a local trusted Aboriginal organisation, please complete and return the application form, and one of our team will be in touch.