Phillip Thompson

At the mere age of 20, Phillip Thompson was deployed to Afghanistan on a trip that would forever change his life.

Whilst on patrol, Phillip was wounded in action, as an Improvised Explosive Device detonated within a metre of him. Immediately taken back to Australia, he suffered from severe injuries and was eventually diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and a Traumatic Brain Injury.

His resilience and perseverance saw him acknowledge his set-backs and go forward with his life.

Phillip is now part of the senior leadership for a large community mental health organisation where he is responsible for managing all of the organisations projects.

He is a Director of the Royal Australian Regiment Corporation, which is the national peak body that represents the interests of current and former members of the regiment as well as a Director of the Australian Pain Management Association which provides advice, assistance and advocacy as the voice of Australians living with chronic pain. Phillip is also a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Managers.

With a passion for aligning business strategy and service with community needs, Phillip ensures that everyone’s voice is heard, no matter how small.

He is also a regular contributor to a number of board and management committees with for profit and not for profit organisations.

More recently, Phillip was appointed to the National Mental Health Commission Reference Group for ADF & Veteran Self-harm and Suicide.

Phillip is a proud and passionate ambassador for the Bravery Trust, R U OK Day and Suicide Prevention Australia.

In 2018, he was appointed as The Queensland Young Australian of the Year, for all of his inspiring work. 

Whether it be suicide prevention, mental-health advocacy or representing fellow veterans, Phillip Thompson ensures he maintains a high standard and respect. With a story that is moving and motivating, Phillip demonstrates the true meaning of resilience.