The new Aged & Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) has selected its first CEO from outside the aged care sector.

Tom Symondson, CEO of the Victorian Healthcare Association since 2015, has extensive experience in healthcare, having previously served as the VHA’s Director of Policy and Strategy; he currently sits on the board of Aware Super, as well as a number of government boards and taskforces such as the Ministerial Advisory Committee for Mental Health, The Victorian Quality and Safety Council and the Public Sector Residential Aged Care Expert Advisory Group.

ACCPA Chair Dr Graeme Blackman welcomed Tom to the role, saying he was well placed to address the issues facing the sector including COVID-19, the Royal Commission reforms, and staffing and funding shortages.

“Now, more than ever our sector needs strong leadership and a united voice through ACCPA so that we can work with Government and industry stakeholders to achieve a sustainable age care sector that improves the wellbeing of older Australians.

“We look forward to working with Tom as he leads a talented ACCPA team who possess a breadth of expertise and experience in the aged care sector,” he said.

Tom (pictured) said he was “delighted” to be taking up the role and representing Australia’s diverse aged care sector.

“The sector is facing many challenges, not least the incredible strain on our workforce after more than two years of a global pandemic and the huge financial strain on providers.

“But there are also so many opportunities to work together with our members and governments across the country to build a sustainable future for aged care and most importantly, to improve the lives of older Australians, wherever they live.

“I can’t think of a more important goal, and I am excited to be able to play a part in delivering it,” he said.

Interim CEO Paul Sadler will continue to lead ACCPA until Tom takes the reins in September.