James Maskey is a dedicated social change leader with deep expertise in policy, advocacy, and political engagement, committed to improving the mental health and wellbeing of first responders, their families, and the wider community.

As Director of Policy and Advocacy at Fortem Australia, James led national initiatives to strengthen mental health and disaster resilience for first responder communities. He worked collaboratively with government to secure multimillion-dollar funding, build bipartisan support for reforms, and influence policy agendas that enhanced access to care and community services. Previously, as National Engagement Manager at Beyond Blue, James spearheaded innovative programs tackling mental health challenges within Australia’s police and emergency services.

A retired Queensland Police Officer, James served in General Duties and the Child Protection & Investigation Unit before transitioning out of frontline service in 2015 due to his lived experience with PTSD. This personal journey fuels his unwavering commitment to driving cultural change, dismantling stigma, and advocating for equity and accessibility in mental health services.

In recognition of his advocacy, James received the 2023 R U OK? Barbara Hocking Memorial 'Conversation Leader' award, which celebrates exceptional contributions to suicide prevention and honours Barbara Hocking, a pioneer in mental health advocacy. In 2019, he was also named one of Pro Bono Australia’s 'Impact 25 Award' recipients, acknowledging his significant influence and impact in the social and human services sector in Australia and beyond.

Whether advancing policy reforms, securing vital funding, or fostering collaborative partnerships, James is driven by a passion for creating resilient communities and improving the lives of those who serve and protect them.