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Peak body Palliative Care Australia has named Dr Chris Hatherly as the new chief executive officer.
Mr Hatherly was most recently the CEO of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia but has held roles across research, policy, health and ageing.
He also has expertise in national advocacy, evidence-informed policy development and coalition-building across government, academia, industry and consumer groups, having been director of the Australian Association of Gerontology from 2019 to 2023 and a national research manager at Alzheimer’s Australia – now Dementia Australia – for over four years.
Dr Hatherly replaces Camilla Rowland, who led the organisation for five years before announcing her departure in February 2026. PCA chair Dr Peter Allcroft said Ms Rowland had been an “exceptional leader”, bringing compassion, integrity and a clear sense of purpose.
“Her ability to bring people together, listen deeply to the experiences of patients and families, and advocate strongly for the sector has made a real difference across the country,” he said.
Dr Hatherly brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in the not-for-profit sector. Dr Allcroft said he was “delighted” with the appointment, and that he expected Dr Hatherly would provide a “steady and innovative influence on the organisation and the broader sector.”
“His experience working at the interface of research, policy, service delivery and the community will be an invaluable asset to PCA’s critical mission,” Mr Allcroft said.
Dr Hatherly said he was honoured to take on the role and that he was deeply motivated by PCA’s mission.
“High-quality, compassionate and accessible palliative care benefits everyone in our society,” he said.
“I’m energised by the opportunity to work with PCA’s board, staff, members and partners, and to meet and hear from palliative care consumers and carers. I look forward to championing PCA’s vision and contributing to better outcomes for people living with life‑limiting illness, their families and communities.”
Dr Hatherly will commence with PCA on 8 July, with interim Simon Waring continuing in the role until then.
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