Dear friends and supporters of the Sleep Health Foundation,
As my tenure as Chair of the Sleep Health Foundation comes to an end, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been an incredibly rewarding four-year journey. It has been an absolute privilege to lead this organisation and work alongside an inspiring team of experts ,advocates, and supporters who share a common goal: improving the sleep health of all Australians.
Over the years, we’ve made remarkable strides in raising awareness, fostering research, and shaping policies that emphasise the critical importance of sleep for all virtually aspects of health and wellbeing. These achievements are a testament to the collective efforts of so many dedicated individuals, and I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to this mission.
Highlights from the past four years include:
- The commencement of our inaugural CEO, the wise and impressive A/Prof Moira Junge;
- Establishment of the Industry Research and Collaboration Committee (previously the Australian Sleep and Alertness Consortium - the legacy group of the Alertness CRC), to facilitate research collaborations and impact;
- Government response to the 2019 parliamentary inquiry into sleep health awareness, with support of 10 of 11 recommendations (and one noted);
- Collaboration with the Mitchell Institute to develop a population health and policy framework for sleep health;
- Introduction of the Foundation’s Lived Experience Advisory Partners (LEAP), who guide our advocacy efforts and all aspects of our strategy and resources including education materials (fact sheets, videos) informed by lived and living experiences;
- Launch of inaugural Australian Sleep Health Week in 2022;
- Launch of a new website and branding (now available with improved tools for accessibility and language purposes); and
- Many valuable relationships we have fostered with our Business Council members, Healthy Sleep partners, other not-for-profit organisations, and supporters.
While I am stepping down as Chair, I am pleased to continue supporting the Foundation as a Board member (past immediate past Chair) over the next 12 months. I look forward to staying connected and lending my expertise to further the Foundation’s important work.
Thank you for your continued support and for being part of this vital movement to prioritise sleep health. Together, we are creating a healthier, well-rested future for all.
With gratitude,
Prof Shantha Rajaratnam
Outgoing Chair, Sleep Health Foundation