Get to know: Lucy O’Flaherty, CEO of Primary Health Tasmania

With a career spanning more than two decades in health, aged care, and community services, Lucy O’Flaherty brings a wealth of leadership experience to her new role as chief executive officer of Primary Health Tasmania.

Lucy says her professional journey has always centred on improving people’s lives through connection, innovation, and purpose. She previously led aged care provider Glenview Community Services in Hobart, where she was instrumental in developing the internationally recognised Korongee Dementia Village.

More recently she served as CEO of Columbia Aged Care in Sydney, driving reform, growth, and quality improvement across multiple residential services.

“I’ve always been motivated by work that makes a real and lasting difference,” Lucy says. “Joining Primary Health Tasmania is both a privilege and a homecoming—an opportunity to influence health outcomes across the system and to contribute to the wellbeing of Tasmanians.”

Lucy describes her leadership style as collaborative, transparent, and purpose-driven. “I believe in leading through people—creating clarity of purpose, aligning teams around shared goals, and building trust through consistent action,” she says. “I value diversity of thought, and I like to empower others to lead from wherever they are.”

What excites Lucy most about leading Primary Health Tasmania is the organisation’s pivotal role in connecting different parts of the health system. “We’re uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between policy, community, and service delivery,” she says. “Our partnerships with general practice, allied health, community organisations and the State Government are what make real, integrated care possible.”

Looking ahead, Lucy sees significant opportunity for Primary Health Tasmania to strengthen its impact through collaboration, data, and innovation. “Tasmania has some of the best examples of community-based care in the country. By listening to local voices, embracing digital tools, and taking a preventive approach, we can help shape a more connected, sustainable system that meets people where they are.”

She is particularly passionate about workforce innovation and wellbeing. “Our workforce is our greatest asset—across every sector. Supporting and developing that workforce is critical to delivering high-quality care and building resilience across the health system.”

Outside of work, Lucy finds balance through nature, creativity, and connection. “I love being outdoors—kayaking, exploring the coastline, or just walking through the bush with my partner and our dog,” she says. “Travel also plays a big part in my life; it gives me perspective and reminds me of the importance of curiosity and cultural connection.”

Lucy is a keen reader and lifelong learner, often turning to books and podcasts that explore leadership and purpose. “I recently revisited Simon Sinek’s The Infinite Game, which speaks about leading with a mindset focused on legacy and long-term impact,” she says. “It’s a perspective that feels particularly relevant in health—where change is constant, but purpose endures.”

When asked for a quote that captures her leadership philosophy, Lucy shares a favourite from Maya Angelou: “People may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” Lucy says it is “a beautiful reminder that leadership is about humanity as much as strategy.” “Empathy and authenticity are what truly connect people to the work we do.”

As she begins her time with Primary Health Tasmania, Lucy is focused on listening, learning, and connecting. “The first months are about understanding the story—the people, the partnerships, the impact,” she says. “Primary Health Tasmania has an incredible legacy, and I’m excited to build on that foundation with the team.”

Her long-term vision is one of collaboration and shared purpose. “Ultimately, I want Primary Health Tasmania to be known not just for what we fund or deliver, but for how we bring people together—across communities and across sectors—to create a healthier, more connected Tasmania.”

This story features in Issue 21 of our Primary Health Matters magazine. Click here to read the rest of the issue.