Miwatj Health appoints Dr Richard Zanner as new chief
The Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation in the Northern Territory has appointed Dr Richard Zanner as its chief executive officer, marking the commencement of his leadership at the organisation.
The board said the appointment aligns with the corporation’s priorities across preventative, community-led and culturally informed healthcare.
Dr Zanner said he was drawn to Miwatj Health’s approach to care and its model of collaboration. He pointed to the importance of partnership in strengthening prevention and supporting communities to stay well.
Key Points
- Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation names Dr Richard Zanner as chief executive
- Appointment backed by board chair Jo-Anne Bayalawuy Thorne in Galiwin’ku
- Dr Zanner brings more than 25 years’ leadership across multiple sectors
- Career spans healthcare, education, justice and community services
- Holds a PhD from Monash University with published academic work
- Led NT General Practice Education transition to national college model
- Focus on partnership-driven, preventative and culturally appropriate care
The health body highlighted Dr Zanner’s background as an executive leader, adviser and educator with more than 25 years’ experience across government, non-government and private sectors in Australia and overseas. The organisation said his track record spans healthcare, education, justice and community services, with a focus on organisational performance and capability building.
He said he was motivated by Miwatj Health’s commitment to a shared approach to health that brings Yolŋu and Balanda together. He added that collaboration at MHAC is delivering meaningful and lasting improvements in health outcomes, and expressed pride in joining the organisation’s work across the region.
Leadership background
Dr Zanner’s career has focused on strengthening organisational performance and capability. He holds a PhD from Monash University and has published academic work while helping establish Centres of Excellence focused on leadership, best practice, research and training.
He is also recognised for work in sustainable development frameworks that span social, economic and environmental outcomes. His career in the Northern Territory began in 2009 in Central Australia, providing regional experience that MHAC said is relevant to its operations.
From 2021, Dr Zanner served as chief executive officer of Northern Territory General Practice Education. In that role, he led the organisation through its transition to a national college model of medical education, a period of significant change he oversaw to completion.
The Miwatj Health helps Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in communities across East Arnhem Land assume control over their health through our Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service (ACCHS).
