MEDIA RELEASE
17 October 2024
OPAN WELCOMES NEW AGED CARE INSPECTOR-GENERAL
The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has welcomed the announcement of Natalie Siegel-Brown as the new Inspector-General of Aged Care.
Ms Siegel-Brown brings considerable experience to the position at an important time for the aged care sector, with the new Aged Care Act set to commence from 1 July 2025, pending parliamentary passage.
OPAN CEO Craig Gear OAM said Ms Siegel-Brown’s appointment was a significant step towards further protecting the rights of older Australians.
“Ms Siegel-Brown has impressive credentials and strong credibility within the social services sector and deep expertise regarding guardianship,” he said.
“We look forward to the opportunity to work with her to ensure Australia’s aged care system meets the needs of older people and is financially sustainable for future generations.”
Ms Siegel-Brown has held roles in the Queensland, NSW, Western Australian and Victorian Governments leading public policy and service delivery, including domestic and family violence, statutory child protection, ageing and disability.
Mr Gear thanked Ian Yates, who has served as Interim Inspector-General since October 2023, for his leadership, and decades of commitment and contribution to the sector.
He will remain in the role until Ms Siegel-Brown commences in January. Her appointment is for a duration of four years and nine months and will conclude in October 2029.
MEDIA CONTACT
Vicky Roach – 0412 720 025 – vicky.roach@opan.org.au
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IMPORTANT NOTICE TO MEDIA FOR STORIES RELATING TO OLDER PEOPLE
It is critical to provide older people with an avenue to get support when covering stories about aged care. We strongly encourage you to include the following message in your story to enable older people to seek support: For information or support regarding aged care, please call the Aged Care Advocacy Line on 1800 700 600 or visit opan.org.au