Think of three people close to you. One of them is likely to be affected by lung disease in their lifetime. There are over 30 different types of lung disease currently impacting one in four men, women and children across Australia.It is our nation’s second leading cause of death, taking more lives than dementia and diabetes, yet it receives very little publicity, funding, research or support.There is currently no cure for the majority of lung diseases and the impact on the lives of those affected is devastating. This is only intensified by the unfair stigma associated with lung disease which contributes to significant delays in diagnosis and inadequate access to treatment and care. Lung disease is one of the highest health burdens in our country. More needs to be done. It’s time for tackling lung disease to be a national health priority.
About us
Lung Foundation Australia is the only charity and leading peak body of its kind in Australia that funds life-changing research and delivers support services that give hope to people living with lung disease or lung cancer. Since 1990, we have been working to ensure lung health is a priority for all, from promoting lung health and early diagnosis, advocating for policy change and research investment, raising awareness about the symptoms and prevalence of lung disease and championing equitable access to treatment and care.
Our team
Mark Brooke Chief Executive Officer
Mark Brooke has over 25 years of executive experience leading a diverse range of organisations in the not-for-profit and for purpose sectors, including inaugural CEO of HeartKids Limited, CEO of Asthma Australia, CEO of Playgroup Queensland and leadership roles at Police Citizens Youth Clubs in both Queensland and New South Wales. He is focused on leading client-centric and sustainable charities that are closely connected to the communities they serve. Mark believes that the best way for organisations to achieve impact for their clients is to apply sound commercial principles, to ensure a reliable revenue stream and good governance. His success is built on the collaborative development of a high level strategy for an organisation, which has enabled him to effectively address structural and historical inefficiencies. Mark has qualifications in business and strives to lead by empowering excellence in his staff and by harnessing the community’s energy and support behind a united vision.
Email: markb@lungfoundation.com.au Phone: 0417 076 090
Kirsten Phillips, General Manager Consumer Health Programs and Partnerships
Kirsten Phillips is a qualified occupational therapist and has worked across a variety of health services and organisations both in the UK and Australia. Kirsten brings a wealth of experience and unique perspective to her role as General Manager, Consumer Program and Partnerships, with a keen focus on quality consumer engagement across all aspects of LFA’s work. Kirsten holds a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy and also has a Masters in Health Science.
Email: kirstenp@lungfoundation.com.au
Christa Bayer General Manager Development
Christa Bayer is an experienced senior leader specialising in NFP strategy, management, fundraising and philanthropy. She has held senior roles with Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), Allergy and Immunology Foundation of Australasia and Perpetual Private’s Community and Social Investments as well as numerous roles across the commercial sector in both Australia and Canada. Christa is responsible for Lung Foundation Australia’s fundraising and philanthropy programs nationally. She is responsible for developing strategies to build relationships that foster all levels of giving in support of Lung Foundation Australia’s Strategic Plan. With support from her team, Christa manages activities across our donor base. Strategic engagement with key stakeholders across business and pharmaceutical partners is also an important part of her role. Christa holds a Master of Arts in Communication.
Email: christab@lungfoundation.com.au
Harry Patsamanis General Manager Clinical Programs, Research and Innovation
Harry Patsamanis has over 30 years experience working across the health system. Harry held the position of Executive Director Primary Health Integration System Design at East Melbourne PHN where he led strategic thinking across a number of health areas including mental health, chronic disease, immunisation and Aboriginal health. He has also worked within the Department of Health and Human Services and at the Heart Foundation as Strategic Clinical Advisor. Harry is an engaging leader and is passionate about working with small organisations to achieve big change.
Email: harryp@lungfoundation.com.au