Lauren Hendriks
Acting Assistant Secretary Aged Care Workforce Branch
Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
As acting Assistant Secretary, Aged Care Workforce Branch, within the Commonwealth Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, Lauren oversees a variety of policy and program areas that aim to build and strengthen the aged care workforce. Lauren joined the Aged Care Workforce Branch in March 2025, having previously held positions within the Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Division and Primary Care Division within the Department. Lauren started her career as a community pharmacist in Queensland before joining the Australian Public Service, and has qualifications in pharmacy and health economics.
SESSIONS
Day 1
1:50
Government Keynote: Shaping the future workforce
How is the government addressing aged care workforce shortages through funding initiatives, new wage commitments, and long-term reform strategies?
Gain insight into the workforce implications of the 2025 Federal Budget, including a $2.6 billion investment in wage growth and funding to support sector-wide reform, workforce retention, and improved care quality
Lauren Hendriks, Acting Assistant Secretary Aged Care Workforce Branch, Department of Health, Disability and Ageing