Message from the chief executive Adjunct Professor Anthony M. Schembri AM
Dear colleagues, We recently held our 2026 Board Strategy Day with senior leaders and clinicians, focusing on how we can better meet the needs of older people. With Northern Sydney one of the fastest ageing regions in Australia, this is not a future challenge – it is already shaping demand across our services. I thank everyone who contributed to the discussion, which will inform a clear Statement of Intent for the Board and help guide our priorities moving forward. On National Close the Gap Day, we launched our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2026–2029. This plan outlines clear, measurable actions and reflects our shared commitment to improving health outcomes and delivering culturally safe care. Importantly, it reinforces that this is a responsibility shared across all parts of our organisation. I encourage you to read the plan here: https://bit.ly/4bJLVAN It was also a pleasure to open our inaugural World Social Work Day forum. As a social worker of more than 30 years, I remain deeply committed to the profession and the values it represents. Social workers play a vital role in supporting patients, families and carers, ensuring dignity, voice and choice are upheld, often during some of the most challenging times in people’s lives. At Ryde Hospital, I was pleased to join staff, volunteers and community members to replant seedlings as part of the Adopt a Seedling initiative, supporting the restoration of the Blue Gum High Forest. This initiative highlights the strong connection between our health services, community and environment. Thank you to all involved in this meaningful work.
I would also like to acknowledge the outstanding result achieved by Mona Vale Hospital and AYAH in their recent Short Notice Accreditation Assessment, with all standards met and no recommendations. This reflects exceptional teamwork, professionalism and a strong commitment to patient-centred care. I’m pleased to share the launch of Raise It, an important step forward in strengthening our partnership with patients, families, and carers, building on the REACH program and shaped by the voices and experiences of those it supports. Developed through consultation, research, and a 2025 roundtable, Raise It provides a simple three-step process to escalate concerns in public health services, including a new statewide phone number (1800 777 333) for raising concerns about clinical deterioration. I am pleased to invite you to another all NSLHD staff virtual Town Hall meeting which is scheduled for Tuesday 31 March at 1pm. In this meeting I will be joined by NSLHD Chief Digital Officer Ann Mirapuri to talk about artificial intelligence (AI) and its adoption into health. Staff can join online here: https://bit.ly/3PtnDU8 Finally, congratulations to our staff recognised at the NSW Health Excellence in Allied Health Awards. Our finalists represent the depth of talent and dedication across the district, and we are proud of their contribution to delivering high-quality, patient-centred care. Warm regards, Anthony Schembri Chief Executive Northern Sydney Local Health District
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NSLHDNEWS | ISSUE 5| 27 MARCH 2026
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