Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith today announced Michael Walsh PSM as Chair of the Inquiry into the ACT's health system data, demand and processes.
The Inquiry was established following an ACT Legislative Assembly motion to provide independent advice and recommendations to the ACT Government on improving the availability of health data, implementation of the Digital Health Record and planned care reforms, the drivers of health system demand and factors affecting recruitment, retention and morale of health care workers.
Minister Stephen-Smith said the Inquiry will provide valuable insights into the current system and Mr Walsh is well-placed to lead this important body of work.
"With significant experience in senior public sector roles across health and social services portfolios in Queensland and NSW, as well as in senior board and consulting roles – including as independent co-lead reviewer for the National Health Reform Agreement – Mr Walsh brings the necessary expertise and independence to lead the complex work of this Inquiry," said Minister Stephen-Smith.
"Mr Walsh has hit the ground running with a series of site visits across our public health facilities, including Canberra Hospital, North Canberra Hospital and the Weston Creek Walk-in Centre."
The Inquiry will involve extensive research and stakeholder engagement with the ACT's public health system, and will also draw on the findings of previous reviews and inquiries.
To ensure the report is delivered within the timeframe required by the Assembly, and to strengthen the independence of the Inquiry and its work, Mr Walsh will be supported by a consultancy team to provide technical expertise, undertake research and analysis, and other administrative tasks. A procurement process for this team is currently underway.
"The Inquiry represents an important opportunity to listen, learn, and continue our ongoing work to improve the delivery of ACT public hospital and health services," said Minister Stephen-Smith.
"This work doesn't have an end point – there is always room for improvement to ensure our health system is equipped to meet the needs of our community now and into the future.
"The Inquiry has a broad and complex remit and there is a significant program of work to be achieved in less than 12 months. I am confident Mr Walsh will lead the Inquiry with integrity, and provide valuable recommendations to the Government about health systems data, demand and processes."
A final report will be tabled in the ACT Legislative Assembly by 30 June 2026.
Quotes attributable to Mr Michael Walsh, Chair of the Inquiry into the ACT's health system data, demand and processes:
"I'm pleased to be appointed to the role of Chair of the Inquiry and have already commenced site visits and desktop research.
"I will be engaging right across the ACT's health system, particularly with clinicians and staff, consumers, key partners and industrial representatives. I will be releasing further information in the coming weeks regarding the process for stakeholder engagement and written submissions.
"As Chair I am committed to conducting a thorough, independent and transparent inquiry and look forward to providing advice and recommendations to the Health Minister about what is working and where things can be improved for the betterment of everyone who uses and works in the ACT health system."
