BREAKING NEWS: Inspector-General of Aged Care Natalie Siegel Brown announces resignation

Inspector-General of Aged Care, Natalie Siegel Brown, has advised the Australian Government of her resignation from the role, effective 31 July 2026.

Ms Siegel Brown’s decision follows a significant expansion of her international responsibilities. Since her appointment, she has concurrently held a role with a United Nations agency, a dual commitment she has managed throughout her tenure as Inspector General. She has now been offered an expanded international role, meaning she is no longer able to meet the full-time commitment required of the office.

“The role of Inspector-General of Aged Care demands complete dedication, and it deserves nothing less,” Ms Siegel Brown said.

“While this was not a decision I made lightly, my international obligations have fundamentally changed, and retaining both roles would not be consistent with the level of dedication the Inspector‐General role demands.

“As difficult as it is to leave a role I care deeply about, this transition will also allow me to devote more time to my young family, which matters greatly to me.”

Reflecting on her tenure, Ms Siegel Brown said serving as Inspector-General had been a profound privilege.

“To have been entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that the voices of people with lived and living experience of aged care are not only heard, but elevated, has been an extraordinary honour. One of the greatest privileges of this role has been the trust people have placed in me – trusting me with their hopes for a better system, and with the pain of when aged care has fallen short.

“When people choose to share their stories in that way, they are letting you into their lives. I have never taken that trust lightly.”

Ms Siegel Brown emphasised that her departure does not mark an end to that work.

“As I step away from the role, I want people to know that the stories shared with me do not end here. They now live within the work of the Office of the Inspector-General of Aged Care; an independent oversight body specifically designed to keep listening, to honour lived experience, and to ensure those voices continue to drive reform and accountability.”

Ms Siegel Brown paid tribute to the staff of the Office of the Inspector-General of Aged Care.

“To my team: thank you. Your professionalism, integrity and compassion have shaped this Office and its culture. I am immensely proud of what we have built together, and I have every confidence in the important work you will continue to do.”

Ms Siegel Brown also acknowledged the strong support she has received from across the aged care sector, and thanked stakeholders, advocates, families and older Australians for their engagement and trust.

She extended particular thanks to the Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, the Hon Sam Rae MP, and to the Minister for Health and Ageing, the Hon Mark Butler MP, acknowledging their leadership and shared commitment to a strong, rights-based aged care system.

Ms Siegel Brown will work closely with the Government to ensure a smooth and orderly transition ahead of her departure on 31 July 2026.