Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Joanne commenced with HCNSW on 13 July 2026. Joanne has a lengthy history of success in policy and advocacy, including in peak organisations in the not-for-profit, membership associations and civil society. She has worked for two cabinet ministers and other members of parliament in the NSW and Commonwealth parliaments.

Headshot of Bella Spongberg-Ross

Bella is HCNSW’s Research Officer. They are a passionate advocate for health system improvement and consumer engagement, stemming from their lived experience as a young person with chronic illness and disability. Bella was the driving force behind the Walking the Talk project in 2022, and the Collaborate & Connect project in 2024-25.

Tara Lee

Consumer Engagement Manager, Health Services

Tara became a health advocate after her own experience in the health system with a desire to partner with staff to bring about positive change.

Jenn Kidd

Administration and Memberships Coordinator

Jenn is our Administration and Memberships Coordinator and came to HCNSW in March 2013. She has 20 years experience in office administration from a variety of roles in large multi-national and FMCG companies. Jenn is passionate about equity, respect and health education. She is proud to work for HCNSW as an organisation which is committed to improving health and wellbeing outcomes for health consumers in all communities across NSW. If you have any questions in regards to HCNSW and our services ask Jenn – she will be the one to know the answer. Jenn works four days a week, Mondays and Wednesdays to Fridays.

Communication Officer

Julia is a communications and media professional with over 10 years experience spanning the TV, corporate and public sectors and a Master of International Communication. Julia has worked for the NSW Department of Family and Community Services as well as universities and communication agencies. She is passionate about helping consumers, patients and carers to have a voice. Julia is responsible for all communication and media projects and brings you The Wrap and Update!, our e-newsletters. Please contact her for any communication or media inquiries. Julia works three days a week: Wednesday to Friday.

Headshot of Dr Anthony Brown smiling into the camera.

Consumer Engagement Manager, Research

Anthony has worked for Health Consumers NSW since April 2014. He leads our research projects and helps consumers, researchers and consumer organisations build their capacity to work together. Anthony is both a strong advocate for consumer involvement in research and an experienced researcher.