Brendan Podbury elected as new State President for Victoria

Brendan Podbury has been elected the new State President for St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria for a four-year term, effective 20 February 2026.

Brendan was elected at a special State Council meeting on Saturday 14 February by 13 State Council members, including outgoing State President, Michael Quinn. 

Brendan brings more than two decades of experience as both a member and as an employee to the leadership role after joining St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria as an employee in 1998 and becoming a member in 2002. He has served across conferences and councils holding many leadership and governance roles, as well as director and committee roles at both state and national levels.

Reflecting on his journey as a Vincentian, Brendan said, “These experiences have given me a broad understanding of the Society at every level, from individual conference members to statewide leadership, and a deep appreciation for the spirit, dedication and faith of Vincentians.”

Brendan brings a member-led approach to leadership, grounded in service and faith, listening and practical support.

“As I step into the role of State President, I do so with a heart for servant leadership. Leadership is never about position but about service - listening, supporting and empowering others, while leading with compassion, integrity, and vision.

“I seek to serve in partnership with every Vincentian, together living out our Mission of love, justice and hope,” he said. 

St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria Interim Group CEO, Charlie Spendlove, congratulated Brendan on the new role saying, “Brendan joins us as State President following decades of experience as a devoted and committed Vincentian, leader and former employee. He combines this experience with deep faith and devotion to the Mission we all share.

“As a member-led organisation, our members are central in driving the good works that we’re all committed to. Our employees and volunteers support our members to help people in our community who need it the most and I’m looking forward to working with Brendan.

“I’d also like to thank outgoing State President Michael Quinn for his steady and generous leadership over the last eight years as Deputy State President and then as State President. He leaves behind a strong and meaningful legacy,” she said. 

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MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Susanne Newton, Senior Communications Advisor, 0438 804 023 or Susanne.Newton@svdp-vic.org.au 

ABOUT THE ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY
The St Vincent de Paul Society and its wide network of members and volunteers provide practical frontline support, advocacy and friendship for the most vulnerable members of our community. Key services include home visitation; Vinnies Shops; youth programs; soup vans; assistance for asylum seekers and refugees; education and tutoring; and professional accommodation and health services through VincentCare. The St Vincent de Paul Society in Victoria has more than 10,000+ members and volunteers, and more than 60,000 across Australia. Internationally, the Society operates in 149 countries and more than 950,000 members. To find out more visit: St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria | Vinnies