Southcare strengthens governance with four new Board appointments
Southcare participants are set to benefit from increased clinical oversight, stronger strategic leadership and enhanced governance following the appointment of four new members to the Southcare Board.
Southcare Chief Executive Officer Enda Fahy said the appointments come at a pivotal time for the aged care sector, reinforcing Southcare’s commitment to placing customers at the centre of every decision.
“As the aged care sector continues to evolve under the national reforms and strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards, discussions around governance, clinical care and a strategic focus have never been more important,” Mr Fahy said.
“Southcare’s Board plays a crucial role in guiding our strategic direction, upholding our values, and ensuring every decision strengthens the safety, quality, and wellbeing of those we support.
“These appointments send a clear message that we are committed to accountability, transparency and continuous improvement. As we navigate the new Support at Home reforms, strong governance ensures our participants continue to receive care that is safe, reliable and person-centred.
Mr Fahy welcomed the depth of experience each new appointee brings, noting their collective contribution will help Southcare grow stronger and remain deeply connected to its community.”
New Board Members
Valerie Hodgins – Executive Manager Governance, City of Swan
Valerie is an experienced governance, assurance and risk executive with a strong background as a corporate lawyer across mining, government and public sectors. She oversees governance, legal, procurement, audit and risk at the City of Swan and has extensive board experience across legal, heritage and sporting organisations.
Fiona Irwin – Registered Nurse and Clinical Nurse Consultant, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
Fiona has more than 25 years’ clinical experience specialising in older adult care. She leads clinical teams to deliver person-centred care and is the 2024 Olive Anstey SCGH Nurse of the Year, recognised for her work supporting older adults in emergency care.
Daniel Lee – Senior Policy Advisor, Ageing Australia
Daniel brings over 13 years’ experience in aged care strategy, advisory and policy. He specialises in sector reform, funding sustainability, corporate transactions and strategic improvement, and has advised boards and executives nationally.
Michele Fletcher – Managing Director, Commercial Air & Refrigeration Services; Governance and Finance Leader
Michele is a governance, finance and risk specialist with over 20 years’ experience across health, insurance and community services. A Fellow of CAANZ, the Governance Institute and Leadership WA, she brings strong governance capability and senior leadership experience across corporate, advisory and not-for-profit sectors.
The Full Southcare Board
- Luke Mitchell – Chair
- Mario Gomes – Deputy Chair
- Ben See – Treasurer
- Aditi Dey – Secretary
- Vidhatri Lakkim Setti – Independent Member
- Valerie Hodgins – Independent Member
- Fiona Irwin – Independent Member
- Daniel Lee – Independent Member
- Michele Fletcher – Independent Member
The new appointments follow the resignations of former Deputy Chair Miguel Gomez and previous Board Chair Veronica Lawrance, who both stepped down after reaching the end of their tenure. Southcare extends its sincere appreciation for their longstanding commitment, leadership and significant contributions over many years.
Their guidance has played an important role in shaping Southcare’s direction, strengthening its governance foundations, and supporting the growth of services for the community.
Southcare also thanks Board Trainees Kathryn Boon and Michelle Brooks, who completed their traineeship terms. Their involvement has added meaningful insight and energy to Board discussions, and their contributions are warmly acknowledged.
“By welcoming these new members to our Board, we’re ensuring Southcare continues to deliver trusted, high-quality care supported by robust governance and clinical leadership.
“Our participants are always at the centre of everything we do, and this fresh leadership approach reflects that,” Mr Fahy said.
Download a copy of Southcare’s 2024/2025 Annual Report