Karen Walsh is a dynamic executive leader with over 30 years of experience driving innovation, policy reform and service delivery across Australia’s housing, homelessness and human services sectors. She is deeply committed to collaboration that delivers lasting social and economic impact and is continually exploring new possibilities for transformative change.

Karen’s career highlights include seven years as General Manager at SGCH during a period of significant growth, leading the Northern Territory Government’s inaugural Community Housing Growth Strategy and four years as CEO of Venture Housing, a Tier 1 community housing provider.

Following her tenure as Interim CEO at National Shelter, Karen was appointed Interim CEO of the Community Housing Industry Association (CHIA) in June 2025.
Renowned for her strategic leadership, Karen has advanced systemic housing policy, championed the growth and delivery of community housing and contributed to urban regeneration initiatives. Her work integrates a strong social purpose with commercial acumen, and she has played a pivotal role in shaping government policy and fostering cross-sector partnerships spanning public, private and not-for-profit domains.

Karen holds dual Master’s degrees, is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD), and an Honorary Fellow of the UTS Institute for Public Policy and Governance. Her expertise has been recognised through board appointments and national awards, reflecting her enduring commitment to leadership, good governance and creating social and economic value.