Lucy Clynes has been appointed as CEO of Hepatitis Australia, the national peak body leading the community response to viral hepatitis.
Clynes is currently General Manager of Research Australia, the national peak body for health and medical research. Throughout her time at Research Australia, Clynes has led the development of medical research strategy for governments, health care providers and health charities.
Before joining Research Australia in 2016, Clynes was a practising lawyer and held various policy roles across government.
“Hepatitis Australia is a highly respected peak organisation and its role in representing the communities affected by viral hepatitis is critical to progressing Australia’s 2030 elimination agenda,” Clynes said on her appointment.
“I’m delighted to be joining the team and I look forward to building on the incredible work so far.”
President of Hepatitis Australia, Professor Joe Doyle said the organisation was delighted to announce Clynes’ appointment as CEO.
“Lucy brings a breadth of experience and expertise in government decision-making and policy development, including ensuring the voice of community is embedded in national policy,” Professor Doyle said.
“Lucy is an advocacy specialist with a track record building strategic partnerships to achieve policy and funding outcomes.
“We are excited to have Lucy joining our team to build on our progress and lead Australia’s efforts to eliminate hepatitis B and hepatitis C.”
Clynes’ appointment comes as the the 2024-25 federal budget provided $23.7m over two years for hepatitis B and hepatitis C initiatives.
There are nearly 300,000 people living with hepatitis B or hepatitis C in Australia. Hepatitis Australia is currently working to eliminate hepatitis B and hepatitis C as public health threats by 2030.
Clynes is set to commence as CEO at Hepatitis Australia on August 5.