Linda Mellors signs off from aged care

After helping steer aged care through reform, COVID and consolidation, Dr Linda Mellors will finish at Regis Aged Care on Friday (19 June).

Linda leaves the sector after more than six years leading Australia’s only ASX-listed aged care provider through one of the most challenging periods in its history.

Appointed Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director in 2019, she oversaw Regis through the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, the pandemic and the introduction of the new Aged Care Act, while also leading a period of significant growth.

Leading through change

Under Linda’s leadership, Regis became one of the sector’s most active acquirers, completing the purchases of OC Health’s two aged care homes, Rockpool’s four facilities and the Knowles Group-owned BodeWell Community Care.

The transactions expanded Regis’ residential aged care and home care footprint as the company pursued its ambition of reaching 10,000 beds by 2028.

Regis also delivered strong financial growth during her tenure. In FY25, revenue increased 14.5% to $1.2 billion while EBITDA rose 17% to $125.8 million.

When announcing her departure in December, Regis Chairman Graham Hodges said Linda would leave the business in a strong financial and operating position after a period of sustained investment in people, systems and care delivery.

Beyond Regis

Beyond her role at Regis, Linda has also been a prominent contributor to sector policy and reform.

She has served on the board of Ageing Australia since it was formed in 2022 and has been a regular advocate for providers navigating significant regulatory change.

This week, the peak body acknowledged her contribution to both the organisation and the wider aged care sector.

“Linda has brought deep executive and governance experience to the organisation since Ageing Australia’s formation in 2022, along with a strong commitment to person-centred care and sector reform,” it said on LinkedIn.

Responding to the tribute, Linda said it had been a privilege to serve on the board.

“I will continue to watch the sector and advocate for all the wonderful people who care for older Australians,” she said.

Linda will commence as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of funeral, cemetery and memorial park operator InvoCare on 1 July.

Bupa Villages and Aged Care Managing Director Andrew Kinkade has been appointed her successor at Regis and will start in the role on 20 July.