Professor Tanya Buchanan commenced her role as Dementia Australia’s new chief operating officer Monday.

Announced in February, Professor Buchanan’s appointment has been welcomed by the peak body’s chair Merran Kelshall.

“I am delighted that Professor Buchanan will be leading the dedicated team at Dementia Australia in continuing to support and make a difference to the lives of Australians impacted by dementia,” Ms Kelshall said.

“Professor Buchanan brings a wealth of experience gained through her extensive and impressive career in the health, research and not-for-profit sectors.”

An honorary professor of practice at the University of Wollongong, where she attained her PhD in public health, Ms Buchanan joins Dementia Australia having left her CEO role at Cancer Council Australia after more than three years heading the national charity.

Dementia Australia Advisory Committee chair Bobby Redman – who lives with dementia – said the committee was excited about the opportunity to work with Professor Buchanan. “The committee looks forward to working with Professor Buchanan to continue to shape dementia services, programs, policy development and advocacy goals,” Ms Redman said.

“Professor Buchanan is committed to making a difference to the lives of all people impacted by dementia and we look forward to working with her to ensure we do this now as well as for generations to come,” she added.

On her appointment, Professor Buchanan said: “I am thrilled to be joining the team at Dementia Australia at such a significant time. With more than 421,000 Australians living with dementia in 2024, I look forward to working with the team and key stakeholders to ensure every Australian impacted by dementia has access to the best care and support possible.”

Professor Buchanan replaces Maree McCabe, who last year notified the board of her decision to leave Dementia Australia after 13 years with the organisation.

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