Former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has been appointed as the new chair of Orygen, a prominent youth mental health research organization in Australia. The Board of Directors selected Mr. Andrews for a three-year term, recognizing his extensive experience in mental health advocacy.
Founded over 30 years ago, Orygen is one of Australia’s largest mental health research organizations, dedicated to improving youth mental health outcomes.
Mr. Andrews served as Premier of Victoria from 2014 to 2023 and previously held the position of state health minister from 2007 to 2010. He was also the party leader during Labor’s time in opposition from 2010 until reclaiming government in 2014.
Patrick McGorry, Orygen’s executive director, praised Mr. Andrews for his substantial contributions to mental health reform during his political career. He credited him with establishing the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System and securing funding for the development of Orygen’s Parkville site in Melbourne’s biomedical precinct.
“With 20 years of leadership in mental health reform, Dan Andrews will be an outstanding leader for Orygen and the field of youth mental health,” Professor McGorry stated. “Mr. Andrews has a proven record as an agent of change with a strategic mindset, which are invaluable attributes for Orygen as we continue to lead youth mental health reform while navigating funding challenges.”
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Mr. Andrews described Orygen as one of Australia’s most vital organizations and expressed his honor in working closely with Professor McGorry. “I’m incredibly proud to take on this leadership role to help Orygen and its world-leading experts at this pivotal time for youth mental health in Australia and globally,” he said.
Mr. Andrews succeeds Dr. Jane Watts, who has been serving as interim chair of Orygen’s board following the departure of Sir Edward Byrne earlier this year.
Related topics:
