The Board of SMART Recovery Australia has appointed April Long as Chief Executive Officer from 11 July 2022.
Previously Acting Chief Executive Officer at SHINE For Kids, April brings extensive national experience in leading innovative social impact initiatives in partnership with the community, not-for-profit, government, philanthropic and corporate sectors. April has held senior management and executive positions at The Smith Family and the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence. She is currently a Director at the Community Restorative Justice Centre (CRC).
Working with the SMART team, April will play a pivotal role within the organisation focusing on expanding the SMART Recovery Australia reach and impact through a focus on digital transformation, diversity and partnerships. She is excited to be joining SMART Recovery with our strong record of delivering recovery programs to people wanting to address addictive behaviours and create positive personal change for themselves and their families.
April Long says, “I am honoured to be joining SMART. I look forward to working with the Board, the staff, and the organisations we partner with to ensure all Australians are given the tools to live their best lives. As a nation, we need a shift in the focus of our drug policies towards evidence-based measures that work against the stigmatisation and marginalisation of people.”
SMART Recovery Australia Chairman Brett Savill adds, “We are delighted that April has accepted the role. She brings an extensive track record in the not-for-profit sector and an enormous passion for supporting marginalised Australians.”