APNA announces leadership changes

Media Release - 6 June 2025

The Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) is searching for its next Chief Executive Officer (CEO) as part of a planned transition from longtime CEO Ken Griffin.

The Board is actively searching for the Association’s new CEO, with Ken’s term concluding in January 2026.  A potential handover period will enable a seamless transition of leadership.

During Ken’s tenure, APNA has had remarkable growth in membership, partnerships and influence, consolidating its position as a leader in Australia’s primary health care sector. Under Ken’s leadership, APNA has grown from a team of 19 to more than 70 and consistently ensured the voice of nursing was visible and respected in the primary health sector.

“APNA is a unique organisation in both its culture and its impact.  I’m proud of what its highly skilled and capable team has achieved together over the past seven years,” said CEO Ken Griffin.

“The Board and team have continually worked to ensure that primary health care nurses are expertly represented, engaged and supported by their peak body. APNA isn’t just a leader in nursing; it’s a positive disruptor in primary health care.”

APNA President Karen Booth expressed her appreciation for Ken’s strong leadership during some challenging years.

“Ken has been tireless, bringing both strategy and energy to his approach and the results can be seen in APNA’s significant growth and success.”

“Ken is an exceptional leader who encourages people to think outside the box to drive innovation.  His performance as CEO speaks to his integrity and commitment to APNA’s continued success.” 

“The Board is now looking for a CEO who will lead APNA into its next stage of development including consolidation after seven years of significant growth and preparing for the next strategic plan.”

This announcement comes as APNA moves to the final stage of its President succession planning.  Karen Booth’s term as President will end later this month, and APNA will be announcing a new President from within its membership.    

Ms Booth will continue her role on the APNA Board for another year, providing a timely handover to the new President.
 

For further information, please contact: 

Dani Neal, Communications Manager

media@apna.asn.au

About APNA 

The Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) is the peak body and professional membership association for all nurses working outside of a hospital setting in Australia. APNA champions the role of primary health care nurses; to advance professional recognition, ensure workforce sustainability, nurture leadership in health, and optimise the role of nurses in patient-centred care. 

APNA is bold, vibrant and future-focused. We reflect the views of our membership and the broader profession by bringing together nurses from across Australia to represent, advocate, promote and celebrate the achievements of nurses in primary health care. 

APNA represents a significant and rapidly expanding workforce; primary health care nurses account for around one in eight of the 640,000 registered health professionals in Australia