Changing of the guard
Posted on July 10, 2025
In late August we will farewell our CEO, Phil Edmondson, who is stepping down after 10 years at the helm of Primary Health Tasmania and almost 30 years in primary care leadership roles.
Phil was CEO of Primary Health Tasmania when Australia’s Primary Health Networks started their work on 1 July 2015, and previously held leadership and other roles at the former statewide primary care organisation Tasmania Medicare Local as well as GP North – the Division of General Practice in northern Tasmania.
He says stepping into semi-retirement will give him more time with family and an opportunity to explore the interests he hasn’t had a chance to pursue while working in a full-time leadership role.
“It’s been a big decision and not one I’ve taken lightly, but the time is right to step aside and let someone else take the reins,” Phil says.
“I feel immensely privileged to have been able to lead multiple primary care organisations over the last 30 years.
“Over this time I’ve seen increasing recognition of the critical role primary care plays in the health of our population, as well as recognition of the importance of local decision-making in collaboration with our providers and communities.
“There’s a huge opportunity ahead for an even stronger primary care system in the context of state and national policy.
“There’s now a chance for someone else with new ideas and approaches to make their mark on the sector as CEO of Primary Health Tasmania.”
Recruitment for a new CEO has commenced – click here for more information.
The Chair of Primary Health Tasmania, Graeme Lynch AM, says Phil has made an enduring contribution to primary care in Tasmania and more broadly within the PHN network.
“His experience and deep knowledge of the primary healthcare sector led to him being a highly sought-after contributor to PHN and strategic sector initiatives,” Graeme says.
“Under his leadership, Primary Health Tasmania has become a respected and innovative PHN.
“His departure – coinciding with our 10th anniversary – will mark the end of an extraordinary chapter in our organisation’s history.
“We are extremely grateful for Phil’s vision, integrity, and dedication to our mission as a PHN.”