The Council of Deans of Nursing and Midwifery (Australia and New Zealand) (CDNM) has announced the appointment of Professor Brendan McCormack as its new Chair, effective 29 October 2025.

Professor McCormack is Head of School and Dean at the Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sydney, and Head of The CARE Program at Sydney Policy Lab. Internationally recognised for his leadership in person-centred healthcare, Professor McCormack has dedicated his career to developing cultures, practices and systems that place people at the heart of care.

He succeeds Professor Karen Strickland, who has led CDNM since 2021. During her tenure, Professor Strickland guided CDNM through significant milestones, including a landmark agreement with CATSINaM and Wharangi Ruamano, an international collaboration with the UK’s Council of Deans of Health, and successful advocacy for the Commonwealth Prac Payment for nursing and midwifery students.

ANMAC congratulates Professor McCormack on his appointment and extends our appreciation to Professor Strickland for her leadership and partnership across the sector.