The inaugural Commissioner of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, Janet Anderson PSM, will depart the role next month after six years in favour of a new face.
Liz Hefren-Webb has been appointed as the new Aged Care Quality and Safety Commissioner, commencing 20 January 2025.
As we reported in October, the $500,000-plus role was advertised in line with the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission Act 2018, which says an appointment must not exceed five years.
A statement from Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells said Ms Hefren-Webb is an experienced leader with an extensive background in social policy and programs who brings strong strategic capabilities and highly developed stakeholder engagement and decision-making skills.
Currently Deputy Secretary, Social Policy, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Ms Hefren-Webb has previously held senior leadership roles at the Department of Social Services and other Australian Government agencies.
“This combination of skills and experience will equip Ms Hefren-Webb to lead the Commission to a mature state as a contemporary, trusted and high performing regulator,” read the statement.
“She will drive positive change to work with the aged care sector and implement historic reforms through the Aged Care Act 2024.”
Ms Anderson, who has held the role since the Commission was established on 1 January 2019 and was re-appointed for another three years in 2022, will continue as Commissioner until Ms Hefren-Webb’s commencement.
“I thank Ms Janet Anderson PSM for her commitment to providing excellent leadership of the Commission for the past six years, through a time of major change and challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic,” said the Minister.
“I look forward to working with Liz as she leads the Commission through the delivery of the new Aged Care Act, a new regulatory environment, strengthened Quality Standards and beyond.”
