Kathy Dempsey – Election Statement

I am seeking election as President-Elect of ACIPC to contribute to the College’s strategic leadership and ensure it continues to thrive as the peak body for IPC professionals in Australasia. My career has been dedicated to improving infection prevention and control across healthcare systems, and I believe ACIPC plays a vital role in supporting professionals, shaping policy, and promoting best practice. I also bring a high level experience working within government and a greater insight to further support the college and its members. Above all, I want to continue the strong foundations ACIPC has laid in further establishing IPC at the highest of strategic levels in our health systems, to ensure the voice of IPC remains strong, relevant, committed and heard. 

As NSW Chief ICP & HAI Advisor, I have led statewide programs that have delivered measurable improvements in patient safety. I have worked closely with clinicians, executives, and policymakers, and I understand the importance of advocacy, collaboration, and evidence-based leadership. I am a strong advocate for our workforce. I bring experience in governance, strategic planning, and risk management, having chaired numerous peak and high level committees and contributed to national IPC frameworks. I am credentialled as a CICP-E and hold postgraduate qualifications in Infection Prevention and Control, Leadership, public health and epidemiology. I have recently submitted my final thesis for a Doctorate in Public Health. The time is right for me professionally and personally to commit further to the college, the specialty and the members. I believe I offer the college and the members a strong and experienced advocate and driving force for IPC. 

I am a registered nurse with almost 40 years in healthcare. I am a passionate, committed and self-motivated clinician with over 28years experience in Infection Prevention and Control. I have extensive, clinical, operational, strategic and governmental experience in IPC and the health system more broadly. I have extensive experience in applied and translational IPC to environments outside of healthcare and a well-rounded appreciation of the diversity that is evolving in IPC. 

I am a consulting Infection Control expert on various State, National and International Committees; The Australian Commission on quality and safety in Healthcare National HAI Steering committee, Infection Control Expert Advisory Group (ICEG) for Australian Health Protection Principle Committee/ CDNA, the national IPC evidence task force, Aus HFG steering committee, WHO Global Infection Prevention and Control Network and the IPC Public Health Emergency Working Group  and a number of  other expert advisory committees/taskforces to Health Departments, government and supporting agencies.  I have published a number of articles in the field. I have long been an act8ive and involved contributing member of ACIPC. 

Previously a Board Director I stepped down to concentrate and dedicate my time to my studies. Now that I am finishing, the time is right for me to do what I love – advocate for Infection Prevention and Control and provide a voice to be heard for the professionals that work so tirelessly to keep our communities safe.  

I am motivated, enthusiastic and dedicated to providing leadership, management and expertise for Infection Prevention and Control. My goal is to continually be challenged and to challenge those around me to always strive to achieve our best. Providing true leadership in delivery of healthcare and to the profession of Infection Prevention and Control. Striving for safer and better healthcare and better outcomes, improving the health journey for all.  

My vision for ACIPC aligns with ACIPC’s mission – “Advancing infection prevention and control across Australasia”  and further includes: 

• Strengthening our advocacy role with government and stakeholders 
• Expanding education and credentialling pathways 
• Enhancing member engagement and support 
• Promoting research and innovation in IPC 
• Ensuring transparency, sustainability, and good governance 

I am committed to the College’s vision, mission, strategy and values I believe in the power of collective and adaptive leadership and the importance of listening to diverse voices within our profession. 

As President-Elect, I would bring a strategic mindset, a collaborative spirit, experience, expertise and a strong professional profile to the Board. I am ready to contribute to the College’s long-term sustainability, represent our members with integrity and professionalism, continue the strong foundations set by those before and help continue to shape the future of IPC in Australasia. 

I would be honoured to serve as President-Elect and contribute to ACIPC’s continued success.