Maree McCabe AM is an accomplished CEO and executive with extensive experience in mental health and aged care.
She achieved the unification of Alzheimer's Australia into Dementia Australia and led the development of world-leading technology that has made a profound difference to the care of people living with dementia, including the global award-winning Virtual Dementia Experience, EDIE and Brain Track app.
In June 2021 Maree was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to people living with Alzheimer’s and Dementia, and to the aged care sector, and included in the COVID-19 Honour Roll for contribution in support of Australia’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She was instrumental in securing a $229.4 million allocation for dementia in the 2021 Australian Federal Budget.
Maree was appointed Chair of the Australian Aged Care Quality & Safety Council which provides advice to the Federal Government on aged care policy development and implementation. She represented Dementia Australia as a member of Alzheimer’s Disease International and is Chair of the ADI Nominations Committee and a member of the ADI Asia Pacific Regional Committee.
Talking Points
The Evolving Face of Leadership
Effective leadership today goes beyond traditional management skills; it requires empathy, adaptability, and a proactive approach to government relations. Maree McCabe AM, a celebrated leader known for successfully transforming organisations, shares her insights on leading through periods of change and innovation. She explores the critical leadership qualities essential across industries, focusing on how strategic government relations and advocacy can amplify an organisation’s impact and drive meaningful change.The Evolving Face of Leadership
Key Takeaways:
• Understanding the key leadership traits that drive success across diverse sectors.
• Strategies to inspire and motivate teams in high-pressure and rapidly changing environments.
• The role of government relations in leadership and how to effectively engage with policymakers to support organisational goals.
• Insights into how innovation and strong advocacy can lead to significant, positive outcomes in any organisation.
The Future of Aged Care: Innovation, Advocacy, and Action
The aged care sector is on the brink of transformation, driven by technological advancements, shifting demographics, and evolving consumer expectations. Maree McCabe AM provides a forward-looking perspective on the future of aged care, sharing her insights on the innovations shaping the sector. She also delves into the critical role of advocacy and government relations in driving policy changes that will define Australia's future landscape of aged care.The Future of Aged Care: Innovation, Advocacy, and Action
Key Takeaways:
• A comprehensive understanding of emerging trends and technologies in aged care.
• The importance of advocacy in shaping the future of the sector.
• How to position your organisation to thrive in the evolving aged care environment.
Breaking Down Barriers: Combating Ageism and Fostering Intergenerational Opportunities
Ageism is a pervasive issue that impacts organisations and communities across the spectrum. Maree McCabe AM discusses the importance of challenging stereotypes and fostering a culture of respect and inclusion across generations. Drawing on her experience, she highlights how embracing intergenerational opportunities can lead to enriched workplaces and improved outcomes for all Australians.Breaking Down Barriers: Combating Ageism and Fostering Intergenerational Opportunities
Key Takeaways:
• Practical approaches to identifying and combating ageism in the workplace.
• The benefits of fostering intergenerational collaboration and understanding.
Leading Through Crisis
In times of crisis, strong leadership is essential to ensure organisational resilience and stakeholder confidence. In this presentation, Maree shares her framework of navigating uncertainty with a structured, strategic approach. From effective risk assessment and communication to supporting at-risk groups and adapting to evolving situations, Maree provides a practical strategies for guiding organisations through challenging times with clarity and purpose.Leading Through Crisis
Key Takeaways:
- Proven strategies for assessing risks and coordinating timely responses during a crisis.
- The importance of clear, consistent communication to maintain stakeholder trust and organisational transparency.
- Techniques for supporting at-risk groups, including employees, clients, and vulnerable stakeholders.
- Practical advice on assigning roles, engaging key stakeholders, and adapting to rapidly changing conditions.
- Insights into fostering resilience and continuity within organisations under pressure.
Video
Addresses by Maree McCabe AM and Michael Lye – National Aged Care Provider Conference 2024
These addresses were part of the day 2 morning plenary at the National Aged Care Provider Conference 2024. This session features: - Address by Chair, Aged Care Quality and Safety Advisory Council, Maree McCabe AM - Address by Deputy Secretary, Department of Health and Aged Care, Michael LyeMaree McCabe CEO Dementia Australia | The Michael Kuzilny Show | Motivation & Inspiration
Michael Kuzilny had the pleasure of speaking to Maree McCabe - CEO Dementia Australia. Together we can reshape the impact of dementia.Maree McCabe – Alzheimer’s Advocate
Maree McCabe AM, former CEO of Dementia Australia, has been a formidable leader in the mental health and aged care sectors since 2010, focusing especially on dementia. With her at the helm, Dementia Australia has flourished as the national organization, offering expert support, advocacy, and information for people affected by dementia as well as their families and communities. Recognized for her significant contributions, Maree was honored with a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) and included in the COVID-19 Honour Roll for her impactful work during the pandemic. Maree’s dedication to improving the lives of those impacted by dementia is celebrated by the broader community, marking her an inspirational figure in her field. Our interview with Maree explores the way that dementia touches all of our lives and open up new possibilities for how we can effectively contribute to those affected.