Princes Court has confirmed a refreshed Board leadership team following its November 2025 Annual General Meeting, with the changes supporting continuity, renewal and strong governance as the organisation moves into 2026.
The leadership update comes after a period of major sector change, with strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards taking effect on 1 November 2025. Princes Court undertook extensive preparation ahead of the reforms across residential aged care, in-home support and retirement living, and is now focused on implementation, rights-based care, accountability and continuous improvement.
Leadership transition with continuity and renewal
After eight years as Chair, Lyn Heaysman stepped down from the role following the AGM. Lyn will remain on the Board as immediate past Chair through to the 2026 AGM, supporting stability and a smooth transition.
Steve Fumberger was elected Chair unopposed. Peter Hartmann will continue as Deputy Chair.
Steve Fumberger, Chair and Peter Hartmann, Deputy Chair
At the AGM, Princes Court also farewelled Director Paula Gordon, recognising more than a decade of service and her contribution to governance and community.
Lyn Heaysman with Paula Gordon at the 2025 AGM
The Board welcomed two new Directors:
Ian Stewart brings experience across civil construction, public-sector infrastructure and organisational leadership, with a strong focus on workplace culture and capability development.
Lakshmi Reghunath brings more than 15 years of executive and clinical leadership experience in health and aged care. Lakshmi is also a former Princes Court employee, having served as Director of Nursing from 2016–2021, and offers deep operational insight alongside governance expertise.
Strengthened governance under strengthened standards
Since the strengthened Quality Standards commenced on 1 November 2025, Princes Court has continued to invest in the systems, capability and oversight required to deliver care and services that are safe, respectful and person-centred.
This work includes strengthening governance and accountability structures, embedding evidence-based clinical protocols, building staff capability and supporting a culture of quality improvement aligned to Princes Court’s RACQT Values: Respect, Accountability, Compassion, Quality and Teamwork.
Community connection grounded in lived experience
Community connection has long been central to Princes Court’s approach to care, and this continues alongside governance and reform readiness.
Mallee’s Living Histories is a flagship community storytelling project that captures and publishes the life stories of older people across the Mallee. Developed in partnership with volunteers, sponsors and families, the project preserves regional history while reinforcing dignity, identity and respect for those whose lives have shaped the community. The stories are shared through published books and online access, creating enduring connections between generations.
GreenConnect builds on this commitment as a dementia support group program for people living with early to mid-stage dementia and their carers. Delivered in inclusive, nature-based settings, the program supports shared experiences, connection and confidence, responding to growing need in regional communities.
Building for the future in Mildura
The refreshed Board will also oversee continued progress of the Together project – Princes Court’s major building and community fundraising initiative to deliver a new purpose-designed 50-bed residential aged care facility in Mildura.
The project will expand local capacity for older people with higher physical and cognitive needs and is supported by $11 million in Commonwealth funding, alongside a $6 million community fundraising goal.
Looking ahead
Chair Steve Fumberger said 2026 will be a year of momentum and responsibility.
“As we begin the new year, our focus is on strong governance, quality improvement and long-term investment. With a refreshed Board and a clear commitment to our values, we are working to ensure Princes Court remains trusted, responsive and ready for the needs of our community – now and into the future.”
Princes Court remains guided by its purpose: supporting older people to live well, every day.