David Clarke
Chief Executive Officer
David Clarke has had an extensive career in the leadership of not-for-profit industry associations and peak bodies across the disability, mental health, parks and environment, and workplace health and safety fields - most recently as CEO of the Australian Institute of Health and Safety (AIHS) for 8 years, where he introduced widespread long-term reforms. He has also conducted a variety of Not-for-profit consulting, has worked in government, and been involved in small business. He has sat on numerous Boards and government task forces/working parties. Trained originally as a teacher, he has an MBA which he completed with honours. David sees himself as a problem solver and generalist who supports and enables specialists to excel. He has led delivery of services, advocacy for social and legislative change, systems improvement and reform, and as a consultant, supporting boards and organisations to overcome critical challenges and problems. David’s focus at the APA is to build on the great work which has been achieved, strengthening its advocacy focus, and long-term sustainability.
Stephen Mason
Director Patient Engagement
Stephen Mason was formerly CEO of Creative Brands Pty Ltd and Finance Director of ASX listed Lemarne Corporation Ltd for over 10 years and Company Secretary of Lemarne Corporation for 20 years.
He is a Director of Heritage Brands Limited and is Chairman of its Audit Committee and is also a Director/Secretary of two other private companies.
Stephen has a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce from Melbourne University as well as a Diploma in Corporate Management. He is a Fellow of both the CPA and CSA, where he lectures occasionally, as well as a Justice of the Peace.
Stephen has had previous experience managing start up organisations and is a life member of three clubs and/or associations. He has had strong community involvement in various clubs and not-for-profit organisations, including, Lord Somers Camp, Powerhouse, the VAFA and Save our Suburbs.
Bharati Eranki
General Manager
Bharati Eranki has more than a decade’s experience in Banking Operations, Lending and Zonal Office Administration at State Bank of India, India’s largest bank. She has a bachelor’s degree with Distinction in Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry from Osmania University, India. She moved to Melbourne, Australia, after marriage and took a break from her career to raise two wonderful kids.
Bharati has a broad set of skills. She is heavily involved in research and projects such as the Patient + app and the National Health Scorecard where her IT skills are beneficial.
She is also responsible for overseeing our patient surveys including the AHI Report.
She finds her association with the APA as a great way to engage with the community and contribute to the welfare of Australians.
Dr Nick Coatsworth
Ambassador for Health Reform
Nick Coatsworth is an infectious disease physician, a respiratory physician, a practitioner of disaster and humanitarian medicine, and a senior public administrator. Nick has led not-for-profit boards, Australian Medical Assistance Teams, government agencies and hospitals, whilst retaining his frontline role as a public hospital physician. Nick provides a clear, credible voice for the health of the Australian community as one of Australia’s most recognised medical spokespeople. Nick is a Clinical Associate Professor at the Australian National University Medical School, and a PhD scholar at the School of Regulation and Governance. His thesis examines Australia’s pandemic governance arrangements and their influence on crisis decision making in the early phase of the COVID 19 pandemic. In recognition of his service to medicine and the community Nick received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Western Australia, his alma mater, in 2022.
Murray Brown
Partnership Manager
Murray Brown has more than twenty years’ experience in the credit management industry.
Murray joined the team at the APA as its Partnership Manager in 2016. Murray sees his connection with the APA as one that is mutually beneficial. While building partnerships in the medical and allied health areas he develops his own networks, communications skills and understanding of the health system and the myriad of issues facing ordinary Australians.
Zahra Thompson
Chief Medical Manager
Zahra Thompson has a passion for helping to improve patients’ lives. To achieve her passion, Zahra trained and practiced as a medical doctor in Iran and obtained a PhD in Immunology from the Australian National University, Australia.
Zahra has spent several years studying and working at a range of universities including Kyoto University and Monash University. She is now conducting innovative research into how the immune system can be harnessed to cure blood cancers such as lymphomas.
In addition to her extensive research experience, Zahra has completed comprehensive training at medical clinics in Melbourne and developed her knowledge of the Australian Healthcare system. Her depth of knowledge and breadth of experience in the fields of Medicine and Medical Science have been acknowledged in her appointment as Chief Medical Officer, Australian Patient Association (APA).
Adelea Kee
Volunteer
Adelea Kee Adelea graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Medical Science from the University of Sydney looking to apply her skills and gain a deeper understanding of Australia’s healthcare system. She aims to pursue a career in medicine and undertake research. She is a passionate advocate for more accessible, equitable and quality healthcare for all Australians.
Adelea works as a medical receptionist in a busy GP practice and witnesses the first-hand experiences and challenges of healthcare delivery.