Our Executive team
Get to know the individuals leading the way in managing strategic, quality and safety, corporate, and operational matters at Justice Health NSW.
Wendy Hoey – Chief Executive
Wendy Hoey was appointed the Chief Executive of Justice Health NSW in September 2022. Prior to this, she was the Executive Director of Clinical Operations having taken up the role in 2019.
Wendy is the Co-Chair of the International Corrections and Prisons Association Healthcare Network, as well as a board member of Health Through Walls Inc.
Wendy's previous appointments include Executive Director for Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service and Nursing Director for the Central Queensland Mental Health Service.
Wendy is a registered Nurse with a Clinical Background in Mental Health Nursing and over 20 years’ experience as a senior leader in mental health, hospital executive and health in secure settings.
Wendy is passionate about providing equivalent care in secure settings and ensuring that all care including mental health care is provided in the least restrictive environment and way.
Grantley Creighton – Director Aboriginal Health
Grantley is a Gomeroi Man from Moree, NSW, with 20 years of experience in Aboriginal Health across government and National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations.
He holds a Bachelor of Health Science (Mental Health) from the Djirrawang Program and previously worked as an Aboriginal Mental Health Clinician in the Northern NSW Local Health District.
In 2019, Grantley joined the Justice Health NSW, and in recognition of his expertise and dedication, he was appointed as the inaugural Director of Aboriginal Health in April 2023.
Dr Gary Nicholls – Acting Executive Medical Director
As the Acting Executive Medical Director, Dr Gary Nicholls is passionate about improving the care of people in prison worldwide and supporting those who work with disadvantaged patients to share ideas.
He joined the Justice Health NSW Primary Care team as a Staff Specialist in Medicine in 2011 and his substantive position is Clinical Director of Primary Care.
Dr Nicholls is a dual trained Hospital Physician and Specialist General Practitioner with 30 years’ experience in the UK and Australia. His specialist training is in Acute and Internal/ General Medicine, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology.
He has worked collaboratively with UK special interest groups including the Royal College of General Practitioners, Royal College of Physicians, Royal Society of Medicine, and the World Health Organisation.
Dr Nicholls is also a Senior Lecturer in Medicine at UNSW and St Vincent’s Clinical School of Medicine.
MBBS(Lon) | FRACGP | MRCP(LonUK) | MRCGP(UK) | DCG(RCPI) | BA(Cantab) | MA(Cantab)
Anthony Dombkins – Director Nursing, Midwifery and Clinical Governance
Until his appointment as the ACT Health Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer in January 2020, Anthony Dombkins served as the Director of Nursing and Midwifery for the Northern Sydney Local Health District. Throughout his career, he has held various senior health management positions within both the public and private health sectors across NSW.
Anthony began his journey as a Registered Nurse in 1987 and has since acquired extensive knowledge through postgraduate clinical certificates in Renal and Transplantation Nursing and Intensive Care Nursing. Furthermore, he pursued a Masters in Health Management from the University of New England (UNE).
His dedication and expertise in the nursing field led to his appointments as an Adjunct Professor in Nursing at the University of Sydney, Australian Catholic University, and the University of Canberra. Anthony's contributions extend beyond clinical practice, as evidenced by his involvement as a member of the Clinical Excellence Commission Advisory Board and his role as a Board Director for Stewart House. His diverse experiences and leadership have significantly impacted the healthcare community.
Neville Board – Chief Digital Health and Information Officer
Neville Board was appointed Chief Digital Health and Information Officer in September 2023.
Before this appointment, Neville held the position of Chief Digital Health Officer in the Victorian Department of Health for five years. He led the Digital Health Branch and the Victorian sector in lifting hospital digitisation and connecting care, uniquely identifying patients and establishing clinical information sharing for Victorian health services.
Prior to this, Neville led digital health and safety programs at the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care and worked extensively in the NSW health system.
He is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Digital Health and the Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University.
Ing Yu – Chief Financial Officer
Ing became part of the Justice Health NSW in 2012, assuming the role of Chief Financial Officer.
Prior to joining Justice Health NSW, Ing had already been a part of NSW Health since 2005. Throughout his career, he gained valuable experience working at HealthShare, eHealth, and South East Sydney Local Health District, taking on diverse roles with increasing responsibilities.
Ing's qualifications include being a practicing CPA (Certified Practising Accountant) with over 20 years of experience in the accounting and finance field. His expertise spans across both the public and private sectors, making him a valuable asset to the organisation's financial management and planning.
Dr Vindya Nanayakkara – General Manager Forensic Mental Health
Vindi brings with her more than 18 years of extensive experience in the field of forensic mental health, encompassing work in various settings such as community, court, prison, and secure inpatient facilities, while dealing with both adult and young populations.
Her transition to the new role comes from her previous position as Co-Director of Forensic Mental Health (operations). In her new capacity, Vindi is eager to further enhance and set benchmarks for forensic mental health care throughout the state. Her wealth of knowledge and commitment to the field make her a valuable asset in advancing the quality and standards of forensic mental health services.
Rose Lougheed – General Manager Primary Care
Rose has been a dedicated member of Justice Health NSW for 17 years, contributing her expertise in various clinical and leadership positions. Her roles have included Service Director Primary Care, Director of Clinical and Corporate Governance, and most recently, Executive Director of Performance and Planning.
Beyond her work at Justice Health NSW, Rose is an active University Associate and PHD candidate at the Tasmanian School of Medicine, affiliated with the University of Tasmania. She holds registration as a nurse and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Her pursuit of knowledge is evident through her postgraduate qualifications in health service management, project management, and a Master of Healthcare Redesign.
Rose's diverse skill set and dedication to her profession make her an invaluable asset to the organisation, enabling her to excel in her leadership roles and drive positive change within the healthcare system.
Colette McGrath – General Manager Population and Preventative Health
Colette has been a part of NSW Health since 1996, contributing her expertise and experience to the organisation for many years. In 2016, she joined Justice Health NSW, marking her involvement in this specialised sector.
Throughout her tenure at Justice Health NSW, Colette has held significant roles, including Service Director Population Health. Her contributions and leadership led to her more recent position as the Acting Co-Director Services and Programs (Operations).
In recognition of her capabilities, Colette was appointed as the interim General Manager for Populations and Preventative Health in June 2023. Her dedication to public health and her wealth of experience make her a valuable leader in advancing population health initiatives and preventive measures within the organisation.
Donna Blomgren – Director Office of the Chief Executive
Donna Blomgren has been with NSW Health since 2002.
Since joining the Justice Health NSW in 2005, Donna has held various roles, including Chief Pharmacist, Service Director Primary Care, Co-Director Services and Programs (Operations), and A/Director Performance and Strategy. In these positions, she has been instrumental in leading the implementation of our 10-Year Strategic Plan – Together for Healthier Tomorrows.
In recognition of her contributions and leadership, Donna was appointed as the inaugural Director of the Office of the Chief Executive in April 2023.
Our Board
The Justice Health NSW Board performs its functions, responsibilities, and duties in line with the Health Services Act 1997 (NSW) and determinations of the NSW Minister for Health.
The Board Charter outlines its primary governing responsibilities, including:
- Setting the strategic direction for the organisation and its services.
- Monitoring financial and service delivery performance.
- Ensuring clinical governance responsibilities are clearly allocated and understood.
- Maintaining high standards of professional and ethical conduct.
- Involving stakeholders in decisions that affect them.
- Establishing sound audit and risk management practices.
Board Charter
Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network (Justice Health NSW) is a statutory health corporation (under the Health Services Act, NSW, 1997) that provides healthcare across secure inpatient, custodial, court, and community settings.
Members are appointed for fixed terms by the Minister for Health. The Board of Justice Health NSW provides governance oversight for the Network. The Board is responsible for the strategic direction of Justice Health NSW through overseeing the development of a long-term vision and a ten-year strategic plan in collaboration with the Chief Executive. Additionally, the Board conducts annual updates and reviews of the plan.
The Board is also responsible for horizon scanning for issues relevant to Justice Health NSW. However, it is not involved in day-to-day operational management; rather, its primary role is overseeing Justice Health NSW's performance. Board members are appointed based on their skills and experience, ensuring they possess an appropriate mix of expertise to provide guidance to Justice Health NSW.
Responsibilities
The Chair
- Provide leadership to the Board and ensure its cohesiveness and effective operation.
- Provide a link between the Board and Justice Health NSW management and the Board and the Minister.
- Sign the Justice Health NSW annual Service Agreement with the Ministry of Health on behalf of the Board.
- Evaluate Board member performance.
- Ensure overall Board performance is evaluated regularly.
- Undertake an annual review of the performance of the Chief Executive and negotiate a Performance Agreement each year.
- Represent the Board on external entities.
- Act as an official spokesperson.
Board members
- Carry out their roles and responsibilities in the best interests of Justice Health NSW and the community and maintain a duty of care and diligence in the public interest and the interests of Justice Health NSW’s staff and those in its care.
- Maintain knowledge and awareness of the paramount role and responsibilities of Justice Health NSW.
- Prepare adequately for and attend Board meetings as required.
- Attend educational programs provided by the Justice Health NSW and maintain continuing knowledge.
- Participate effectively in meetings of the Board.
- Comply with all relevant laws and policy directives.
- Participate, if invited, in committees and support the Board’s operations.
- When acting in good faith and in accordance with their statutory duties, Board members are provided with indemnity for their actions. This indemnity does not extend to the discharge of responsibilities under the New South Wales Work Health and Safety Act 2011 Board Meeting.
Board meetings
- The Board will meet regularly, with at least six ordinary meetings annually, including an annual public meeting.
- Board members are encouraged to nominate items for inclusion on the Board agenda. Agenda items should be accompanied by papers to provide the information necessary to support informed decision making by the Board.
- The Board will invite Justice Health NSW and other personnel to Board meetings to provide information and assist in decision making.
- Board papers are to be made available in advance of each meeting (at least seven calendar days) and Board minutes are required to be published for public information.
- The Board is responsible for the approval and monitoring of Justice Health NSW’s Strategic Plan.
Membership
The Board consists of an Independent Chair and 9 members. Board members are appointed as a result of their skills and experience and have the appropriate mix of skills to provide guidance to Justice Health NSW.
Subcommittees
The Board’s operations are supported by the following committees and councils:
- Finance and Workforce Performance Committee
- Patient Safety and Clinical Quality Committee
- Research Advisory Committee
- Research Strategy and Operations Committee
- Audit and Risk Committee
- Medical and Dental Appointments Advisory Committee
- Clinical Council
- Medical Staff Council
- Mental Health and Medical Staff Council
- Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing working group
- Aged Care and Reintegration.
Meet our Board
Professor Denis King, OAM
- Clinical Professor Graduate School of Medicine, University of Wollongong.
- Associate Adjunct Professor, University of NSW.
- Colorectal surgeon – 40 years experience.
- Member of the Boards of St George and Sutherland Medical Research Foundation and the Illawarra Health and Medical Research Foundation.
- University of Wollongong Fellow.
- Former Chair of the NSW Health Ministerial Advisory Committee.
- Former Chair of the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District Board.
- Former Executive Clinical Director, South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service and the Director of the Division of Surgery at St George Hospital.
- Former member of the Council of the University of Wollongong.
- Former member of the Advisory Board of the John Curtin School of Medical Research.
The Hon. Jillian Skinner
Member of the NSW Parliament for 23 years, serving as Shadow Minister for Health for 14 years, Shadow Minister for Education for 2 years, Minister for Health for 6 years, and also Minister for Medical Research for 4 years. During her time as a Minister, she:
- Reformed the NSW public health system, increasing treatment, transparency and accountability through a devolved structure which involved establishing Local Health District and Specialty Network Boards.
- Redeveloped hundreds of hospitals, boosting investment in IT, integrated community-based care, medical research and social policy programs including organ donation, pain management, improved palliative care and elimination of the transmission of HIV.
Since retiring in 2017, she has continued her involvement in healthcare through Jillian Skinner Consultants, taking on various roles such as:
- Chair of the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association.
- Director of the Board of the Children’s Cancer Institute Australia.
- Member of the Cancer Australia Advisory Council.
- Member of the CSIRO Health and Biosecurity Advisory Group.
- Member of the Australian British Health Catalyst Advisory Board.
Professor Penny Abbott
- Professor, Department of General Practice, Western Sydney University.
- Visiting General Practitioner (GP) Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network.
- Chair of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Custodial Health Specific Interests Group.
- Member of Western Sydney Primary Health Network Clinical Council and GP Leaders group.
- Member of the General Practice Advisory Group, Agency for Clinical Innovation, NSW Ministry of Health.
- General Practitioner in Aboriginal community controlled health sector from 1991 - 2017.
Mr Roger Downs
- Deputy Chair – Warrigal Care (not for profit aged care provider).
- Board Member and former Chair– Illawarra Credit Union Ltd.
- 10 years on the Board of Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ended 2021).
- Retired lawyer – former law firm partner specialising in commercial and business law, former Chair and member of the NSW Law Society Business Law Committee.
Mr Paul Knight
- Director of several private businesses in industries such as Property Development and Management, Information Technology (AR, VR and XR). Tourism and Hospitality.
- Board appointments with NSW Heritage Council, NSW NPWS Council, Coordinare Limited (PHN).
- Independent Chair of the Audit and Risk committee for the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District.
- Former position on the ISLHD Board for 10 years taking on roles such as Chair of Finance and Workforce Performance and Aboriginal Health.
- Board position with the Illawarra Academy of Sport.
- As a Dharawal and Yuin custodian he is recognised for his strong understanding of Aboriginal culture and has held many community leadership roles including a current position on the NSW Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee for NSW.
Dr Robyn Shields AM
- Deputy Mental Health Commissioner for NSW.
- Member NSW Government’s seclusion, restraint and coercive practices review committee.
- Awarded a Centenary Medal - 2012.
- Awarded the member of the Order of Australia (AM) in recognition of her services to Aboriginal Mental Health - 2004.
- Former Member of NSW Mental Health Review Tribunal.
- Awarded in 2015 – Recognised by Westpac – 100 Women of Influence.
- Instrumental in setting up mainstream Aboriginal Mental Health Services; Development of specific Policies, both State and National in the past.
Dr Kath McFarlane
- Adjunct Associate Professor at the School of Population Health at the University of New South Wales.
- Former Chief of Staff across a range of portfolios in the NSW Government.
- Former Executive Officer of the NSW Sentencing Council and the NSW Children’s Court.
- PhD on ‘Care-criminalisation: the involvement of children in Out of Home Care (OOHC) in the criminal justice system’.
- Director of Kath McFarlane Consulting, she provides independent research, policy and program services to government and community organisations, particularly in the areas of OOHC, criminal justice, social justice and welfare outcomes.
Mr David McGrath
- Social policy consultant.
- Chief Executive of Ramsay Psychology.
- National Director, Mental Health Strategy for Ramsay Health care.
- Board Member Odyssey House NSW.
- Board Director Black Dog Institute.
- Long-term advisor to the World Health Organisation.
- Former Chief Operating Officer for the Department of Premier and Cabinet’s Special Commission of Inquiry into Crystal Methamphetamine and Other Amphetamine Type Stimulants.
- Former Director of Mental Health for NSW Health.
Dr Annette Bemand
- Sydney Child Health Program Education Undergraduate Medicine and GP fellowship, Diploma of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
- Senior GP with Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation with supervising registrars and medical students.
- Annette has also worked for Justice Health NSW as a GP for almost a decade and won GP Supervisor of the Year (GP Synergy 2022).
Ms Marisa Mastroianni
- Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of UOW Global Enterprises.
- Subsidiary of the University of Wollongong.
- Board Member NRMA Ltd.
- Chair of NRMA’s Audit and Risk Management Committee.
- Member of the Venues NSW Illawarra Regional Advisory Committee.
- Former Director of the Illawarra Shoalhaven Health District Board and Chair of its Audit and Risk Committee.
Board meeting minutes
View the minutes of the Justice Health NSW board meetings from the past three years. For earlier years, contact us.
2024
2023
2022
2021
By-laws and Corporate Governance
Clinical Governance
Our people
At Justice Health NSW, we deliver quality healthcare to those who need it most. If you want to make a real difference, we've got just the place for you.
We are committed to creating a culture of learning and professional development for all staff.