Tom Symondson takes the reins of ACCPA
Last updated on 16 January 2023
The Aged & Community Care Providers Association’s (ACCPA) new Chief Executive Officer Tom Symondson has taken over the reins of Australia’s largest age care representative organisation.
Mr Symondson said he was delighted to commence in his new role as CEO of ACCPA representing providers of home and community care, residential aged care, seniors housing and independent living across Australia’s diverse aged care sector.
“The aged care sector is facing many challenges, not least the incredible strain on our workforce after more than two years of a global pandemic and the huge financial strain on providers,” Mr Symondson said.
“Over the past three years, providers have faced the perfect storm of COVID, a Royal Commission and critical challenges in funding and workforce.
“Yet, staff have continued to show up and older Australians have continued to receive the services and supports they need and deserve. It’s evident that there is enormous resilience in our industry, and we need to build on that as we work to strengthen public trust and partner with government to achieve real reform which improves the wellbeing of older people, wherever they live.”
Mr Symondson will give his first major speech next week at ACCPA’s inaugural National Conference to be held in Adelaide over three days from 12 to 14 October at the Adelaide Convention Centre.
“Our inaugural national conference gives us an exceptional opportunity to meet face to face and take the pulse of the sector, to learn about the progress of aged care reform, and of new innovations and opportunities to improve the lives of older Australians,” Mr Symondson said.
“Now, more than ever our sector needs strong leadership and a united voice through ACCPA so that we can work with Government and industry stakeholders to achieve a sustainable age care sector that improves the wellbeing of older Australians.
“I can’t think of a more important goal, and I am excited to be able to play a part in delivering it.”
Mr Symondson thanked Paul Sadler for his leadership as Interim CEO of ACCPA and work in establishing a public profile for ACCPA from its inception on 1 July and in the leadup to the transition to the new organisation.