The Albanese Labor Government is pleased to announce Natasha McCormack will join the National Aged Care Advisory Council in 2026.
Ms McCormack is an Arrernte, Warumungu, Alawa and Kija woman and is the Deputy CEO of Purple House in Mparntwe (Alice Springs).
With more than 20 years’ experience in governance, policy, advocacy, and community development, she has worked across commercial, government, and non-government sectors, driving systemic change and social justice – and brings lived experience of the challenges faced by Aboriginal people in remote communities.
Ms McCormack has been appointed for a two-year term, until 31 December 2027.
She replaces Professor Jody Currie, who served on the Council from July 2022 until September 2025, ensuring the perspectives of older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people were considered through the development of aged care reforms.
The Council provides independent, expert advice to the Government on aged care policy, services and performance, with a focus on aged care reform.
It was established in 2021, in response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
Council members are selected because of their strong connections within the sector and relevant expertise.
More information is available at: https://www.health.gov.au/committees-and-groups/national-aged-care-advisory-council
Quotes attributable to Minister for Aged Care and Seniors Sam Rae:
“Ms McCormack brings a wealth of experience working with older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and I look forward to her insights as we continue to implement our once-in-a-generation reforms to aged care.
“I'm deeply grateful to Professor Currie for her work on the National Aged Care Advisory Council and wish her well as she continues to make a contribution to the community in her new roles.”
“The National Aged Care Advisory Council plays an integral role in shaping aged care policy and programs in Australia – I look forward to working with the Council in 2026 as we continue delivering generational reform to aged care across the country.”