Guided by our enduring Mission, we have continued to deepen our commitment to caring for those in need, with a clear ambition to lead nationally in complex care, specialising in dementia and palliative care.

Throughout the year, HammondCare has built on its capabilities through the implementation of the Next Chapter Strategy, enabling us to deliver high-quality care to people with complex needs.

This has been especially important in a time of significant sector transformation, including the introduction of the new Aged Care Act and Support at Home reforms. These changes have required a focused and agile response, and HammondCare has met the moment with strategic investment in clinical capability, operational flexibility and leadership alignment. Every decision is anchored in our Mission, and every step guided by the lived experience of clients, residents, patients and team members.

Our Christian ethos remains central to our work. This year, it’s been further shaped by HammondCare’s organisational theology which has helped inform our approach to clinical care quality and complex ethical issues, including voluntary assisted dying. Our commitment to care is grounded in the love and teachings of Jesus Christ, and this remains front of mind in every aspect of our work.

Establishing centres of excellence

A personal highlight of the year was the Board’s approval of the Northern Sydney Masterplan – a flagship initiative I’ve seen evolve during my time on the Board. This visionary plan reflects our long-term goal to establish centres of excellence across Northern Sydney, driven by innovation and a steadfast commitment to quality care.

We’ve also made significant strides in our digital transformation, building the infrastructure needed to support complex care at scale. As part of this journey, we are exploring the use of artificial intelligence to enhance productivity, free up time for frontline care and improve the experience for those we serve.

Financially, HammondCare has delivered a strong underlying result enabling us to invest strategically. Our balance sheet remains stable, supported by healthy prudential reserves.

I acknowledge the exceptional leadership of CEO Andrew Thorburn and his team. Through the Next Chapter Strategy, they have reshaped our operating models, bringing greater alignment with our Mission and positioning HammondCare strongly within a reforming sector. I am thankful to the Board and HammondCare team – particularly our frontline team – whose passion and dedication continue to deliver life-changing care every day.

Dedicated contributions

We also recognise the dedicated service of retiring Board members: Robyn Langsford, after 16 years across two terms, and Glynn Evans, who retired at the last AGM, after 11 years. Their contributions are deeply valued. We confirmed Carl Gunther as Chair of the Audit and Finance Committee, Kate Thomas as Chair of the Property and Sustainability Committee, and Peter Bailey as Deputy Chair. Special thanks also to David Lewis, retiring as Company Secretary after 22 years of faithful service.

As I prepare to retire from the Board and my role as Chair at the upcoming AGM, I am grateful for the privilege of serving HammondCare since 2016. Though stepping back from formal leadership, my prayerful support remains with HammondCare, and I look forward to staying connected through the Association.

Yours in Christ, 

Kok Kong Chan 
Board Chair