Chair Report

Chair Report

Rene Pennock, Chair of Board

In my second year as Chair, I remain proud of the contribution Central and Eastern Sydney Primary Health Network makes to the health and wellbeing of our region.

This year marked an important milestone as we celebrated CESPHN’s tenth anniversary. Over the past decade, the organisation has grown in capability, influence and maturity while remaining focused on the needs of the communities it serves. This achievement is a credit to everyone who has contributed to CESPHN’s development since its establishment.

Our anniversary celebrations were a highlight of the Primary Health Awards held in October 2025. The Awards provided an opportunity to recognise the innovation, commitment and impact of primary care providers and community organisations across our region. I congratulate all nominees and the following award recipients:

  • Excellence in Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing: Women’s Health and Wellbeing Program, Tribal Warrior
  • Excellence in Community Service Delivery: Waterloo Peer Education Program, Sydney Local Health District and Counterpoint Community Services.
  • Excellence in Allied Health Practice: Medi Learn
  • Excellence in General Practice: ADHD @ your GP, Kirrawee Family Medical Practice

Their achievements demonstrate the difference that dedicated local services make in the lives of individuals, families and communities.

From the Board’s perspective, the past year has reinforced the importance of strong stewardship in a health system experiencing significant change. The Board has maintained its focus on CESPHN’s strategic direction, organisational sustainability, risk management and responsible use of public resources. Effective governance requires not only oversight, but also constructive challenge, informed decision-making and a clear focus on the outcomes CESPHN seeks to achieve for its communities.

Artificial intelligence has been a particular focus for the Board this year. A dedicated Board workshop explored how AI could advance CESPHN’s strategic objectives, the opportunities and risks associated with its adoption, and the importance of maintaining human oversight. Subsequent Board discussions have considered CESPHN’s risk appetite, the distinction between low-risk operational use and matters requiring Board visibility, and the governance framework and guardrails needed to support responsible adoption. The Board recognises the potential for AI to improve organisational capability and efficiency, while remaining clear that privacy, security, clinical safety, transparency and professional judgement must remain central to its use.

The Board also completed an independent evaluation in late 2025. This provided valuable external insight into the Board’s effectiveness and identified opportunities to strengthen its composition, role, culture, committee arrangements, induction, development and succession planning. An implementation plan has been established, with work progressing throughout 2026 to address the recommendations and support the Board’s continuing development.

The Bondi attack had a profound impact on people across the region, and the Board acknowledges the compassion, professionalism and responsiveness demonstrated by staff and partners. The Board commended CESPHN’s rapid commissioning, communication, system coordination and governance, and considered the broader lessons for future service delivery, emergency response capability and system leadership.

As CESPHN enters its second decade, the Board will continue to support an organisation that is accountable, adaptable and equipped to respond to an increasingly complex operating environment. We remain attentive to financial sustainability, workforce capability, organisational culture and the systems required to support sound decision-making. These foundations are essential to maintaining confidence in CESPHN and ensuring it can continue to fulfil its responsibilities effectively.

Since joining the Board in November 2025, Dr Amandeep Hansra, Wendy Hoey and Dr John Petrozzi have made valuable contributions through their experience, insight and commitment to CESPHN’s purpose. Their perspectives continue to strengthen the Board’s governance and strategic discussions.

I thank my fellow Directors for the judgement, commitment and expertise they have brought to the Board throughout the year. Their thoughtful engagement with complex issues and sustained focus on CESPHN’s purpose are greatly valued.

On behalf of the Board, I also acknowledge our Chief Executive Officer, Nathalie Hansen, the Executive Leadership Team and all CESPHN staff. Their professionalism, resilience and commitment have enabled the organisation to continue delivering important work in a changing and demanding environment.

Finally, I thank CESPHN’s members and all those who have supported the organisation during the year. As we look ahead, the Board remains committed to providing the stewardship needed to ensure CESPHN is well governed, sustainable and positioned to make a lasting contribution to the health and wellbeing of communities in the region.

Rene Pennock

Chair