The Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia is proud to celebrate Des Martin’s 15-year milestone as the organisation’s Chief Executive Officer. Throughout his tenure, he has shown outstanding leadership and dedication to improving Aboriginal health outcomes across Western Australia, profoundly influencing the health sector.
Des’ extensive experience in Indigenous health extends more than 30 years. Prior to his move to Australia, he spent more than a decade in Maori Health where he held various leadership and Executive Management roles within District Health Boards, where he was responsible for the implementation of Maori Health Policy and Strategy, aligned to Crown and Government responsibilities in upholding their obligations to fulfilling the Articles and Principles of the Treaty Of Waitangi. Once in WA, he was fortunate in securing employment with the Department of Health working as a Portfolio Officer and Senior Policy Officer for the Aboriginal Health Policy Directorate under Neil Fong, then Ken Wyatt, as the Directors.
Joining AHCWA on 11 January 2010, Des took on the role of Operations Director and within six months was appointed CEO on June 30, 2010. Although he initially intended to fill the position only temporarily, his affinity with the role’s requirements and needs saw Des officially take on the reins on a permanent basis, and he has held the position ever since.
Executive Manager of the Office of the CEO Amanda Collins-Clinch said she first met Des at a NACCHO CEO meeting with the other affiliates when he had just started in the role. “I know the credibility and respect he has as the CEO of AHCWA and has built across the nation, and it was a huge decision in why I wanted to work at AHCWA,” she said.
“I remember the day when I heard our predecessor WACCHO was defunded, which was a massive shock and disbelief, and it was Des’ leadership, determination and passion, alongside that of the Directors, that has been instrumental in ensuring a peak body for Aboriginal health exists in WA today.”
Des has provided exceptional leadership to AHCWA and the WA ACCHS Sector, advocating for AHCWA’s Member Services at a state and national level. At the commencement of his role, Des oversaw approximately 15 staff, and he has watched the organisation grow to over 50 since. This increase in capacity, as well as in revenue — 2024 ended with a total income of over 19 million dollars, up from six million in 2010 — is a testament to Des’ leadership and commitment.
His successes in the role, approachable nature, and work ethic have shaped his relationship with the Board into one of mutual respect, with each side offering stability, guidance, and support as needed. Despite the busy nature of his position, Des’ door is always open to staff, treating all fairly and greeting everyone with a smile.
Executive Officer Kerry Mann has worked alongside Des for most of a decade. “I’ve had the privilege of working in the Sector for a long time, and I can honestly say that Des is the best boss I’ve ever had,’ she said.
“Over the past seven and a half years I’ve spent at AHCWA, I have watched him lead with fairness and reason, understanding the complexities of the work we do and the importance of the ACCHS Sector. I wouldn’t still be here if I didn’t believe in his leadership and vision.”
Congratulations, and thank you, Des, for your continuous contributions, devotion, and governance of the organisation. AHCWA extends its deepest appreciation and recognises the positive and lasting impact your commitment to Aboriginal people’s health outcomes has had on an individual level, entire communities, and within the state.