Ms Smith has played a pivotal role in guiding ESSA through a significant period of organisational evolution, strengthening its foundations and positioning it for long-term success.

ESSA’s Board has appointed Director and Accredited Exercise Physiologist Katie Lyndon as Interim CEO, effective immediately. Ms Lyndon and Ms Smith will work closely together during the transition period.

Ms Lyndon brings extensive leadership experience across the health system, having led major transformation and strategic programs in executive roles with the Queensland Department of Health, Deloitte Health Advisory Consulting, Hospital and Health Services, and private practice. She has a strong understanding of the opportunities across the health, sport and physical activity sectors and is looking forward to working closely with ESSA’s members and stakeholders.

ESSA Board President Emma Beckman said the Board is grateful for Ms Smith’s leadership, vision and dedication, and confident in the organisation’s future.

“The Board remains firmly committed to bold advocacy and driving meaningful change that strengthens our members’ presence across all aspects of the health, sport and physical activity sectors. We are well positioned for continued growth and to progress our strategic objectives in 2026,” Ms Beckman said.