The New Zealand Audiological Society (NZAS) is seeking expressions of interest from two suitably skilled members of the community to serve as Community Representatives on the NZAS Poari Whakapae | Complaints Board.
This is an opportunity to contribute an independent community perspective to an approach that supports safe, high-quality audiological care, fair and practical complaint resolution, and public confidence in the profession.
About NZAS
The New Zealand Audiological Society is the leading professional body representing audiologists and hearing professionals throughout Aotearoa. NZAS works to:
· Promote excellence in audiological practice
· Support professional standards and continuing professional development
· Advocate for improved hearing health outcomes
· Strengthen workforce capability and leadership
· Foster equitable, accessible, and culturally responsive hearing healthcare
· Build trusted partnerships that advance the wellbeing of New Zealand communities
The Executive Council provides strategic leadership, stewardship and oversight so that NZAS remains sustainable, future-focused and accountable while delivering value for members and the wider public.
About the Poari Whakapae | Complaints Board
The Poari Whakapae is an independent group that responds to concerns about possible breaches of the NZAS Code of Ethics. It forms part of a broader, integrated framework of policies and guidance designed to support members to deliver safe, high-quality care while maintaining public confidence in the profession.
The complaints process emphasises proportionate and practical responses and, where appropriate, aims to resolve concerns early through facilitated discussion. At every stage, the process is grounded in fairness, transparency and natural justice for all parties.
The Poari Whakapae sits separately from, but alongside, NZAS’s wider work to strengthen ethical practice through guidance, learning and support for members managing ethically challenging situations. Insights from complaints inform education and guidance, contributing to continuous improvement across the profession.
About the Community Representative Role
Community Representatives will bring an independent, informed and community-focused perspective to the consideration of complaints. They will work constructively with other members to assess concerns, support appropriate early resolution, participate in investigations where required, and contribute to fair and well-reasoned outcomes.
Desired Skills and Experience
· Experience serving on a complaints board or similar decision-making body
· The ability to consider information impartially, exercise sound judgement and work respectfully with people who may hold different perspectives
· A pragmatic approach to complaint management and investigation, with a genuine commitment to supporting early resolution where appropriate
· Strong oral and written communication skills
· Experience in the health sector, including an understanding of health ethics would be advantageous
· A strong commitment to the vision and purpose of NZAS
· Relevant personal lived experience would be welcomed
What We Value
NZAS values independence, integrity, cultural safety, respectful engagement and a commitment to equitable outcomes.
We welcome expressions of interest from people with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences, including people with lived experience of health or disability services.
Time Commitment and Appointment
Board members will be called on as complaints arise. NZAS currently receives approximately four to eight complaints each year. The time required for each matter will vary depending on its nature and complexity.
Please submit a brief expression of interest and curriculum vitae outlining your relevant experience, your interest in the role, and the perspective you would bring to the Poari Whakapae. Applications should be emailed to ken@audiology.org.nz.
Applications close on 2 October 2026. For a confidential discussion, contact Executive Director Ken Trass on 027 444 1424.
The New Zealand Audiological Society strives to promote evidence-based practice, research, education and advocacy to support its members, their profession, and the ear, hearing and balance health care needs of Aotearoa New Zealand.