New APNA CEO Dr Stephen Duns to champion primary health care nurses

Media Release - Thursday 21 August 2025

The Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) has today announced the appointment of Dr Stephen Duns as the new Chief Executive Officer, commencing Monday, 29 September.

Stephen brings extensive leadership experience across health, community services and education. He has held senior executive and CEO roles in professional associations, health organisations and local government, where he has led major cultural and organisational change initiatives. Stephen has also worked internationally as a consultant with 'Big 4' and boutique consulting firms. His consulting has focused on leadership development, governance and organisational culture. 

An academic as well as a practitioner, Stephen has served as Professor of Business Leadership and Faculty Lead at Leadership Victoria. He holds a Doctor of Business Leadership, an MBA, and a background in psychology. His work has consistently centred on supporting leaders, teams, and organisations to navigate complexity, foster growth, and deliver impact for the communities they serve. 

“I am honoured to be appointed the CEO of the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association, championing the work of primary health care nurses who are such a critical part of the health system."

“Our purpose is clear – to champion and strengthen primary health care nurses, so that communities across Australia can thrive."

President and Chair of the APNA Board, Denise Lyons, congratulated Stephen on his appointment as CEO.  

“Stephen Duns is a wonderful appointment for APNA, and I congratulate him for taking on this important role leading APNA in our support and advocacy for primary health care nurses."

“I am confident Stephen’s leadership will continue to grow APNA’s membership, partnerships and influence."

Outgoing CEO Ken Griffin welcomed Stephen's appointment to the role. “After seven years of growing APNA, I’m excited to see what the next chapter holds under Stephen’s leadership. Now more than ever, the work of APNA is critical in disrupting the status quo and addressing the challenges facing primary health care nurses and the health sector more broadly."

Dr Stephen Duns, APNA's new Chief Executive Officer.