Dr Danielle McMullen, the current Vice President of the Australian Medical Association (AMA), has been elected as the new President after running unopposed. This marks the first time an unopposed leader has been declared since Dr Steve Hambleton. Dr McMullen, a highly regarded figure in the medical community, has built strong relationships, including a notable connection with the federal Minister for Health, Mark Butler.
Outgoing President Professor Steve Robson expressed his confidence in Dr McMullen’s abilities, praising her tenure as Vice President and her previous role as President of AMA NSW. He emphasised her advocacy skills and commitment to improving the health system, describing her as a strong and inclusive leader who brings both poise and vibrancy to the role.
Dr McMullen stated her eagerness to represent all doctors across the health system, recognising the challenges faced in various sectors such as general practice, public hospitals, mental health, and private health. She highlighted the AMA’s unique position as the representative body for all doctors in Australia and expressed readiness to tackle the challenges alongside her colleagues.
Her vision for the AMA presidency includes strengthening the best aspects of the healthcare system, supporting doctors and health workers, investing in prevention and early intervention, and enhancing general practice to ensure Australians have access to their doctors when needed. She acknowledged the threats to the health system but also saw significant opportunities for improvement.
Among her priorities are reducing waiting lists and improving the value proposition of private health insurance. Dr McMullen emphasised the importance of boosting investment in general practice, which she described as the cornerstone of the healthcare system, caring for Australians from birth to death and through all life’s ups and downs. She underscored the necessity of collaboration across the healthcare system to manage the increasing demands of an ageing population and chronic diseases, ensuring timely and well-coordinated care for patients.
In just over a week, delegates at the AMA’s National Conference will elect a Vice President, with A/Prof Julian Rait and Dr Xavier Yu as the candidates. They will also vote on a motion to introduce a two-month hand-over period for new presidents, with the new leadership team set to take over from 1 October.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
