Tim Costello AO

Tim Costello is undeniably one of Australia’s most revered community leaders, celebrated for his unwavering commitment to social justice, ethical governance, and effective leadership. With a career spanning decades, he has emerged as a highly sought-after voice on various pressing issues.

For 13 years Tim served as the Chief Executive of World Vision Australia (WVA), leaving an impactful mark on the organisation. Currently, he directs his passion and expertise as the Executive Director of Micah Australia, a platform dedicated to advocating for justice and equity, and as the Director of Ethical Voice, where he champions integrity and moral leadership. Additionally, he holds key positions such as Senior Advisor for the Centre for Public Christianity, Chair of the Community Council for Australia, and Co-Chair of the Charities Crisis Cabinet.

Tim’s journey of leadership and service encompasses diverse roles, including National President of the Baptist Union of Australia, Mayor of St Kilda, Minister at St Kilda Baptist, and Collins Street Baptist in Melbourne. Tim’s tenure as Executive Director of Urban Seed, a Christian not-for-profit organisation providing outreach services and hospitality to the urban poor, further displays his dedication to serving marginalised communities.

Educated in law and education at Monash University, and with a Masters in Theology at the Melbourne College of Divinity, Tim’s expertise informs his compassionate activism. As one of the nation's leading campaigners on social justice issues, Tim was awarded 'Victorian of the Year 2004', by the Victoria Day Award for Public and Community Service. In 2005, Tim was made an officer of the Order (AO) of Australia for his significant contributions to Australian society, and was later the Victorian nominee for the Australian of the Year award in 2006.

Tim has received high acclaim for his vocal advocacy on pressing domestic issues such as urban poverty, homelessness, problem gambling, reconciliation and substance abuse. For nine years he served as the spokesperson for the Interchurch Gambling Taskforce, and contributed as a member of the National Advisory Body on Gambling.

Tim has received countless accolades for his services, including the Australian Peace Price in 2008, and being listed by the National Trust as a ‘National Living Treasure’. In 2008, he also received an honorary doctorate from the Australian Catholic University in recognition of his contributions to religious life and social justice.

Tim holds prominent positions across various sectors, including Chair of the Community Council of Australia and the NAB's SRAC committee. He also serves on the Executive of the Alcohol Education Research Foundation and AMP's Social Responsibility committee. Notably, as Co-Chair, he has been a driving force behind the Make Poverty History campaign. Additionally, Tim has taken on the leadership role of Chairing the National Church Leaders Problem Gambling taskforce, highlighting his comprehensive commitment to addressing societal challenges.

From his experiences in the Philippines to Sudan, Tim’s encounters with poverty globally have fuelled his relentless advocacy for justice. His first hand experiences have inspired him to challenge global poverty in the name of his fellow Australians.

As the author of several influential books, including ‘Streets of Hope: Finding God in St Kilda’, ‘Tips from a Travelling Soul Searcher’, and ‘Wanna Bet? Winners and Losers in Gambling's Luck Myth’ co-written by Royce Millar, Tim’s literacy contributions provide profound insights into societal challenges.

A respected media commentator and captivating speaker, Tim inspires action and dialogue on pressing social issues, captivating audiences with his insightful and engaging presentations. His tireless dedication to the causes he believes in serves as a beacon of hope in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.