On 1 February 1993 Laurie joined the staff of the National Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia, as Development Officer for World Mission. In this position he initiated a range of new ideas that have allowed the overseas work of the Uniting Church to grow and move from strength to strength.
World Mission later became Uniting International Mission and Uniting Church Overseas Aid (UCOA), and then UnitingWorld, where he currently serves as Associate Director for Relief and Development.
While there have been several highlights throughout Laurie's time at UnitingWorld, one of his greatest achievements was leading the Relief and Development Unit into full accreditation with the Australian Government international development program, AusAID, in 2006.
AusAID accreditation has significantly increased the capacity of UnitingWorld to stand in solidarity with overseas partners and work towards sustainable poverty alleviation for some of the world's most marginalised people.
Laurie has always been warmly welcomed and genuinely appreciated by our Church Partners overseas, and has been an asset to the team. We thank him for his dedication and service, and wish him an enjoyable and peaceful retirement. Mr Rob Floyd will continue to lead the Relief and Development Unit as Associate Director for Relief and Development.
Read more: http://www.unitingworld.org.au/2010/04/farewell-rev-laurie-fitzgerald/