Dockers legend Mundy joins Minderoo

Fremantle Dockers legend and former midfielder David Mundy has quietly joined the ranks of Andrew Forrest’s charity Minderoo Foundation as head of engagement and gender equality.

The Dockers record holder didn’t waste much time between hanging up his boots at the end of the 2022 AFL season and getting to work at the charity in March 2023. 

Mr Mundy describes his title as head of engagement and gender equality on his LinkedIn profile, in what appears to be in a part-time capacity.

He works with Lenda Oshalem who is the executive director of advocacy and engagement at Minderoo and partner of WA minister David Michael. 

“Joining the team earlier this year, David plays an important role in Minderoo Foundation’s advocacy and engagement team and gender and equality focus area," Ms Oshalem said. 

"Using his unique communication and relationship building strengths, David is helping to dismantle the systems that entrench inequality and prevent the creation of a fairer future.

"Specifically, he works with Minderoo’s partners and local communities to shift the harmful social norms that keep inequalities in place. His work extends from leading role modelling, mentoring and behaviour change programs, to advocacy and research initiatives.

Ms Oshalem further commented that as a father of three, David was particularly passionate about engaging men in care and fathering roles.

"As Minderoo’s 2030 strategy comes to life, David is helping to craft our advocacy approach to care reform," she said.

"This extends from evidence-based ‘share the care’ models to regional engagement programs – all in the name of breaking down the barriers that stop humanity from reaching its full potential.

“David brings a unique and powerful perspective to our work, especially his insights on men and masculinities and high performing teams. His work across advocacy and equality is deeply valued as we focus on our 2030 vision of creating a society that values all people and natural ecosystems.”

In another move, Mr Mundy is also taking on the role of chairman of Kai-Fella, a Fremantle-based charity aiming to prevent suicide, save lives and advocate for mental health.  

Kai-Fella was founded by Claire Eardley in the wake of her son Kai’s death, with a strong mission to help save other young people’s lives through its early intervention workshops with high-school students. 

Ms Eardley will step down as chair and Mr Mundy will take on the role from 2024.

The Dockers stalwart kicked his last goal on his 376^th game against Collingwood in September 2022, wrapping up his 19-year professional footballing career.

Since his AFL retirement, the 2016 AFL season captain put the boots back on to play a game for country club Dunsborough Sharks in the South West Football League this past season.