With a passion for the importance of the patient voice in federal policy, Deidre has held several senior management and executive roles within the public health sector, as well as gaining invaluable experience in the not-for-profit space as former CEO of Multiple Sclerosis Australia.
Leading Crohn's & Colitis Australia since 2018, Leanne’s focus is on advocacy and delivering transformative healthcare services, drawing on her expertise in leadership, strategy, and governance. Under her leadership, underpinned by her passion for visibility in healthcare and patient empowerment, the team have pioneered support systems and championed quality care improvements for over 100,000 Australians living with IBD.
Crohn’s and Colitis Australia is a member of the Australian Patient Advocacy Alliance and Leanne joined the APAA Board in February 2023.
Carolyn is a dynamic and experienced professional, passionate about working with people to achieve outstanding organisational results underpinned by significant experience working across a range of industry sectors. Since joining IDFA in 2020, she has used her strong experience in strategic planning and implementation, project management, organisational change, and exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to lead IDFA in the health advocacy space.
IDFA is a member of the Australian Patient Advocacy Alliance and Carolyn joined the APAA Board in February 2023.
Jonathan was appointed as CEO of Arthritis Australia in 2020. He has led the organisation with skills and experience gained throughout a highly successful legal career over 30 years, including in private practice, a term as President of the Law Society of England, Wales and latterly CEO of the Law Council of Australia. With a track record in using strategic goals to drive change and performance, Jonathan manages a highly experienced and dynamic team in advocating for people living with arthritis.
Arthritis Australia is a member of the Australian Patient Advocacy Alliance and Jonathan joined the APAA Board in October 2024.
Sandy has spent more than 25 years working in the community not for profit sector leading three wonderful organisations with a focus on community development, rare disease, disabilities and women’s health and safety. Sandy was appointed as the CEO of Save Our Sons Duchenne Australia in 2021.
Save Our Sons Duchenne Australia is a member of the Australian Patient Advocacy Alliance and Sandy joined the APAA Board in October 2024.
An extensive career largely as a leader in the not-for-profit sector encompassing senior executive and director roles including 5 years as CEO Asthma Australia and over 13 years as Managing Director / CEO at Kidney Health Australia. Anne also ran her own consulting business and was appointed CEO of Emerge Australia in 2021.
Emerge Australia is a member of the Australian Patient Advocacy Alliance and Anne joined the APAA Board in October 2024.
