Age Services Peak LASA Announces New Chair

Leading Age Services Australia (LASA), the industry peak body for all age service providers,has announced the appointment of Dr Graeme Blackman OAM as its independent Chair, taking over the role from Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC.
“Dr Blackman brings LASA a unique range of skills and experience in the charitable, church, philanthropic and commercial domains. His appointment is a coup for LASA and strongly underlines our commitment for a sustainable and best practice services industry for older Australians.” said Marcus Riley, deputy Chair of LASA and CEO of the Hibernian Society.
Dr Blackman has had an exemplary career in both the business and voluntary sectors, including as a director of Medicines Australia, chairman of the National Stem Cell Foundation of Australia, chairman of the Pharmaceuticals Industry Action Agenda and as chairman of the Australian Council of National Trusts, which is the nation’s top national community heritage body. Dr Blackman was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia and a Centenary Medal for services to the pharmaceutical industry and to the community through a range of Anglican Church, heritage and welfare organisations.
“LASA members provide essential frontline services and constantly aspire to support and respond to the needs of all older Australians regardless of their culture, background, location or need. It is with a sense of great pride and purpose I take this role with LASA, committing myself and the organisation to the task of being the influential voice of all age services, in order to help older Australians live well.” said Dr Blackman.
Dr Blackman’s experience in the community and aged care industry is considerable having previously held roles as Chairman of Anglicare Victoria and Director of Benetas Aged Care. During his tenure with Anglicare Dr Blackman assisted the organisation with a range of amalgamation activities and ensured that during this change the financial management and governance of the organisation remained strong, qualities that will assist LASA with its charter.
“Securing Dr Blackman as LASA Chair is a real triumph and it is an indication of LASA’s capability for us to attract a chairperson of his calibre at such a critical time for our industry. He is easily one of Australia’s leading company directors and knows how to balance the unique mix of mission and commercial aspects of our industry.” said Patrick Reid, LASA CEO