Dementia Australia’s new CEO ushers in the next chapter

Former Cancer Council CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan officially commenced her role as Dementia Australia CEO today as the peak body begins a new chapter following the departure of Maree McCabe AM.

Professor Buchanan’s appointment was first announced in February, signalling a massive coup for Dementia Australia. Board Chair Merran Kelsall AO said she was delighted to see the experienced executive and former Registered Nurse take on the impactful role.

“Professor Buchanan brings a wealth of experience gained through her extensive and impressive career in the health, research and not-for-profit sectors,” Ms Kelsall said.

 “I am delighted that Professor Buchanan will be leading the dedicated team at Dementia Australia in continuing to support and make a difference to the lives of Australians impacted by dementia.”

Professor Buchanan joined Cancer Council Australia in November 2020 after several years abroad in Wales as Chief Executive Officer of Action on Smoking and Health (ASH). She was also the CEO of the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand.

“I am thrilled to be joining the team at Dementia Australia at such a significant time,” Professor Buchanan said.

“With more than 421,000 Australians living with dementia in 2024, I look forward to working with the team and key stakeholders to ensure every Australian impacted by dementia has access to the best care and support possible.”

Her leadership experience, advocacy skills and proven track record of successful public health campaigns come at an important time for Dementia Australia. It’s estimated that more than 800,000 people will have dementia by 2054 with provisional data suggesting it will soon become the leading cause of death in Australia. 

Dementia is already the leading cause of death for Australian women.

One of the major focal points for Professor Buchanan and Dementia Australia over the next two years will be increasing the support provided to at-risk populations, including those with Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and CTE dementia. 

CTE is a degenerative brain disease that can only be diagnosed after death and has been recorded in Australian athletes such as Danny Frawley (AFL) and Heather Anderson (AFLW). Age is no factor. However, with greater recognition of the signs and symptoms, diagnosis and ongoing support are more likely. 

Dementia Australia received $12.5 million in the 2024 Budget to help promote awareness and implement support services. 

Dementia Australia Advisory Committee Chair Bobby Redman, who lives with dementia, said the Dementia Australia Advisory Committee were excited about the opportunity to work with Professor Buchanan to improve outcomes for all Australians impacted by dementia.

“The Committee looks forward to working with Professor Buchanan to continue to help shape dementia services, programs, policy development and advocacy goals,” Ms Redman said. 

“Professor Buchanan is committed to making a difference to the lives of all people impacted by dementia and we look forward to working with her to ensure we do this now as well as for generations to come.”