Federal AMA CEO to conclude tenure — new CEO appointed

Secretary General and Chief Executive Officer of the federal AMA, Ms Natalia Centellas, will conclude her tenure with the AMA in mid-August 2026 after accepting an external chief executive appointment.

AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said Ms Centellas leaves the federal AMA having overseen one of the most significant periods of reform and transformation in the AMA’s history. 

“During Ms Centellas’ tenure, the AMA remained a strong national advocate for doctors and patients amid immense pressure on Australia’s health system,” Dr McMullen said. 

“At the same time, she led major organisational reforms to ensure the AMA remains effective, sustainable and influential into the future.

“Change in long-established organisations is never easy, but Natalia brought determination, resilience and a clear focus on strengthening the AMA’s ability to serve members and advocate for the profession. She has led the organisation with energy and enthusiasm, and with members always front of mind. It has been a privilege to work with her.”

The Federal AMA’s Board Chair, Associate Professor Andrew C Miller, said much of Natalia’s most important work occurred behind the scenes and would not always be visible to members. 

“Natalia led a broad modernisation program covering governance, operations, financial sustainability, organisational capability and national coordination,” A/Prof Miller said.

“She also initiated a new phase in the AMA’s history through federation integration and branch merger initiatives, including the successful merger of AMA Tasmania, AMA NT and AMA ACT into AMA Ltd and the development of long-term agreements with other state AMAs.”

A/Prof Miller said the AMA Board was pleased to announce they have appointed Mr Warwick Hough as Secretary General and CEO after a detailed and considered process. 

“Mr Hough has more than 21 years of experience in the federal AMA and brings to the role deep policy and advocacy experience and prior CEO experience,” A/Prof Miller said. 

“Mr Hough’s intricate knowledge of the AMA and relationships across the AMA federation and with senior health stakeholders mean he is well placed to tackle future goals and help realise our strategic vision. 

“His experience and knowledge of the AMA will be invaluable, as we integrate and grow the three state branches that have joined federal AMA, as well as provide the stable partnership and leadership needed with our state AMAs in the larger states — many of whom have recently appointed new CEOs.” 

A/Prof Miller said it was a sign of the strength of the AMA’s senior leadership team that the Board was able to appoint a new CEO internally, whilst still maintaining its strong advocacy and policy priorities, and continuing its reform program.

Ms Centellas will remain in the role until mid-August 2026 to support an orderly transition.