“James combines his expertise in policy and community engagement with a unique ability to connect at the highest levels, providing strategic insight and advocacy. His leadership and unwavering commitment to drive change in the service of others results in initiatives that enhance wellbeing, promote inclusivity, and foster systemic reform.”
James Maskey is committed to making rights-based, practical, community-based mental health care the standard for every Australian, in partnership with the people it supports. As a former police officer with lived experience of PTSD, he understands how affirming well-matched support can be, and how challenging recovery is when that support is missing. This experience has guided his work to ensure that mental health services are visible, valued, and responsive to community needs.
James has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia (MIFA), commencing 11 November 2025. For nearly 40 years, MIFA has led a national federation of member organisations supporting people living with high-need mental health challenges, their family carers, and the communities around them. Alongside its advocacy and policy work, MIFA auspices initiatives such as Psychosis Australia, Finding North, and Out from the Mist, amplifying lived-experience voices, supporting recovery, and driving meaningful outcomes across the sector.
Prior to joining MIFA, James held senior leadership roles at the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health, Fortem Australia, and Beyond Blue, working across government relations, policy advocacy, and national program delivery. Throughout his career he has focused on partnering with community mental health organisations, elevating lived-experience leadership, and building systems that enable services to be locally driven, effective, and sustainable.
James’ contributions have been recognised nationally, including the R U OK? Barbara Hocking Memorial ‘Conversation Leader’ Award (2023) for his role in suicide prevention and his inclusion in Pro Bono Australia’s ‘Impact 25’ (2019) for his contributions to the social and human services sector.
Beyond his professional work, James is a ultra-endurance athlete who uses his platform to share his lived experience, challenge stigma, and encourage others to seek help and stay connected.
James Maskey Consulting 