DIA ANNOUNCES CEO TRANSITION
Disability Intermediaries Australia (DIA) announces with both sadness and gratitude that following almost 7 years of service to DIA and the intermediaries sector Mr Jess Harper has tendered his resignation as DIA’s Chief Executive Officer.
Jess has made an extraordinary contribution to DIA and the intermediary sector. He has helped build the organisation’s profile, strengthened relationships across government and the sector, championed the role of disability intermediaries, and led DIA with integrity, energy and purpose through constant change. Just a few of Jess’s lasting achievements include:
- Navigating DIA and the intermediary sector through the Tune Review, Disability Royal Commission and NDIS Review.
- Developing and implementing DIA’s Professional Standards of Practice.
- Growing DIA to a national footprint of over 1200 members that deliver high quality supports.
We are incredibly grateful to Jess for the tireless vision and heart that he dedicated to DIA and our members. Jess has accepted an opportunity to lead a significant multidisciplinary social services provider delivering aged care, disability support, settlement and community services.
While Jess’s departure is a loss, DIA remains strong, focused and optimistic about the future. The sector has an important role to play, and DIA remains confident in the opportunities ahead.
The Board of DIA has commenced work on recruitment for DIA’s next CEO. In the interim, former DIA Board Member Tanya Walford has been appointed as Acting CEO. Tanya steps into the role with over ten years of experience in the intermediaries sector along with lived experience of disability and advocacy. Jess and Tanya have already commenced work together to ensure continuity and a smooth transition.
DIA Board Chair John Della Bosca said Jess’s departure will be a loss for the organisation and sector:
“Jess Harper has made an exceptional contribution to DIA, our members and the sector over almost seven years,” Mr Della Bosca said. “He has led with integrity, clarity and deep commitment to members and to the disability intermediary sector. While we are sorry to see him go, we support his decision and thank him for the extraordinary work he has done.”
Mr Jess Harper said it had been a privilege to lead DIA:
“It has been a genuine privilege to lead DIA and work alongside such committed members, board and stakeholders,” Mr Harper said. “I am proud of what we have achieved together and grateful for the trust and support I have received. This next opportunity is an exciting one professionally, and also the right step for my family. I leave knowing that DIA remains strong, focused and committed to its members and am confident in a bright and positive future for disability intermediaries and the communities they serve.”
Former DIA Board Member and Appointed Acting CEO Ms Tanya Walford said she was honoured to step into the Acting CEO role:
“Jess has made a lasting contribution to DIA and to the sector more broadly. I thank him sincerely for his leadership and for the thoughtful handover now underway,” Ms Walford said. “DIA is well placed for the future. I look forward to working with members, government and stakeholders to maintain momentum and support the Board through the recruitment process.”
Jess’s final day with DIA will be 24th April 2026. DIA extends its sincere thanks to Jess Harper for his leadership, service and contribution, and wishes him every success in his next role.
Media enquiries: media@intermediaries.org.au
DIA is a members-based organisation. We are only able to do the work that we do because of the ongoing support of our members. Thank you to all DIA members that continue to support the work we do. If you’re a provider delivering Support Coordination or Plan Management are not yet a member, you should consider joining. Click here to join from our homepage.