The Albanese Government has appointed Ms Kate Pope PSM as acting Inspector-General of Aged Care.
The Inspector-General of Aged Care has an important role in monitoring Australia's aged care system and making recommendations to help strengthen the quality of care provided to older Australians.
The Inspector-General also has responsibility for reporting to the Minister and the Parliament on the progress made towards delivering on the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
Ms Pope brings a wealth of experience to the role, with over thirty-five years' service in public administration and most recently having served as Deputy President of the Department of Veterans' Affairs Repatriation Commission.
In recognition of her service to the Commonwealth, Ms Pope was also awarded a Public Service Medal as part of the Queen's Birthday Honours list in 2012.
Ms Pope commenced in the role on 1 August 2026 and was appointed following the departure of the former Inspector-General, Ms Natalie Siegel-Brown, on 31 July 2026.
Ms Pope will serve as acting Inspector-General as the process to appoint a permanent Inspector-General continues.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, the Hon Sam Rae MP:
"The Inspector-General has an important function in working co-operatively with the Government to advance systemic improvements to Australia's aged care system.
"Ms Pope comes to the position with deep experience in the public sector and I am confident she will do an excellent job in working with us and the Parliament in improving aged care for older people.
"I thank Ms Siegel-Brown for her service and wish her well in her future endeavours."
