Who we are

About the Australian Patient Advocacy Alliance

Bridging the gap in Australian healthcare

Working towards accessible care for all

There are over 12 million people living with complex or chronic disease in Australia. At the APAA, we’re dedicated to enhancing the care and quality of life of every single one of them.

We do that by collaborating with national health organisations to understand the real needs of patients, then working to streamline communication, systems and submissions to ensure patient voices are at the forefront of key government decisions.

As a not-for-profit organisation, the APAA works above the disease to offer equal support to all national patient bodies. Combining our broad experience with the specialist expertise of our members, together we can influence positive change for millions of patients who live with chronic and complex conditions across Australia.

Join us today and be part of a better future for Australian healthcare.

Apply for membership

Our people

Governed by a voluntary Board and supported by an Executive Officer, the APAA has implemented a lean, efficient business model that includes incorporation as a not-for-profit, allowing us to operate independently and receive funding from a variety of sources.

Deidre Mackechnie

Executive Officer

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.

In addition to her work at the APAA, Deidre is also the board chair of St Kilda Mums, a Victorian based charity focused on rehoming pre-loved nursery goods to provide babies with a safe start in life.

Our Board

Nettie Burke (Chair)

Director Good Works Consultancy

Stephanie Bansemer-Brown

Chair Bowel Cancer Australia Lived Experience

Carolyn Dews

CEO Immune Deficiencies Foundation Australia (IDFA)

Leanne Raven

CEO Crohn's and Colitis Australia

Our constitution

Our constitution provides the Member organisations and the Board with clarity as to the governance requirements of APAA.
Access and download our constitution.

Our members

Member organisations of the APAA

APAA membership is open to all national peak health organisations that focus on advocacy for complex and chronic disease. Our current membership organisations include:

Immune-Deficiencies-Foundation-Australia

Contact us to check your eligibility and join the Australian Patient Advocacy Alliance.

contact us

Our funding partners