The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) congratulates Anne Burgess AM on her appointment as the new Chair of the Aged Care Council of Elders.

“A passionate advocate for the rights of older people, Anne brings decades’ worth of experience to this role,” OPAN CEO Craig Gear OAM said. Ms Burgess’s distinguished career includes roles as Director of the Office for Women, and Acting Commissioner at the Equal Opportunity Commission in South Australia.

An OPAN Board Director and Chairperson of the Aged Rights Advocacy Service, her knowledge of the sector is extensive. She is respected in South Australia for her work as a member of the governing body of the Northern Adelaide Local Health Network and Vice President of COTA SA, and nationally, as the Chair of COTA’s National Policy Council. “Formed on the recommendation of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, the Council of Elders has a vital role in ensuring older people have a voice in aged care reform,” Mr Gear said.

“Anne has an in-depth knowledge of the aged care system through her work with the National Aged Care Alliance.

“With her skills in policy development, strategic planning and community engagement, Anne is the perfect person to lead us through this period of significant change and to oversee the development of a new Aged Care Act that actively addresses older people’s basic human rights.”

Ms Burgess takes over as Chair of the Council of Elders Chair from Ian Yates, who commenced his role as Interim Inspector-General of Aged Care in February For information or support regarding aged care, please call the Older Persons Advocacy Network on 1800 700 600 or visit www.opan.org.au