After a decade at the helm, trailblazer and advocate Pat Turner AM is retiring from the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO).
The Arrernte and Gurandji woman's retirement was announced on Wednesday afternoon via a statement in which she described her time as CEO as the "privilege of her life".
"Everything we have achieved has been driven by communities and by a sector that has always known its own strength," Ms Turner said.
"Community control works because it puts our people at the centre of decisions about our health."
Ms Turner said she felt comfortable retiring as she had confidence in both NACCHO and the sector.
"I leave knowing NACCHO is strong, our services are strong and the work will continue with the same determination that has always carried us forward."
Ms Turner was appointed CEO in 2016 after an impressive career in public service. She lead the organisation through a decade of struggle and success, including leading Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led responses that protected vulnerable and remote communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under her leadership the organisation strengthened sustained investment in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led solutions and community-controlled primary health care.
It also continued efforts to eliminate preventable diseases such as Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease, and strengthened the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce and pathways for the next generation.
Ms Turner's contribution not only to the organisation, but to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, families and individuals across the country, has been described by her colleagues as immeasurable.
"Pat's legacy at NACCHO is one of lasting reform," said NACCHO Chair, Donnella Mills.
"She strengthened this organisation, elevated the national standing of community-controlled health and helped secure a new relationship with government based on shared decision-making and accountability."
Ms Mills described Ms Turner's leadership as one of "strength, clarity and an unwavering commitment to self-determination".
"That legacy will continue to shape our work."
Dr Dawn Casey appointed as CEO
Ms Turner has passed the baton to Deputy CEO, Dr Dawn Casey PSM FAHA.
Dr Casey joined the organisation in 2016 and has been an integral part of its success.
She is a Tagalaka Traditional Owner from North Queensland and prior to NACCHO had an extensive career which ranged from public administration, governance and institution-building.
Having served alongside Ms Turner for a decade, Dr Casey said she's determined to continue the legacy Ms Turner built.
"It is a privilege to step into this role. Pat leaves big shoes to fill, and I want to acknowledge the strength of her leadership and what she built," she said.
"I take on this role with a strong sense of responsibility for the work ahead, focused on continuity, strong advocacy, and working closely with our members to ensure Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations are supported to keep delivering for their communities.
"Community control is our strength, and that will remain at the centre of everything we do.”
