We are stepping into a new future for our College. Our membership has spoken and given clear support for an updated Constitution for governance reform.

We began this journey last year when it became evident the College’s structure was no longer fit-for-purpose. Council, while strong on surgical leadership, lacked the financial and risk management expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern governance environment.

We now have a mandate from our membership—an 82.6 per cent vote in favour—to plug that gap and will be appointing a skills-based, professional-led governance Board to underpin our future.

The Board will carry the fiduciary responsibilities of finance, audit, risk and high-level governance, leaving to Council the core business of guiding RACS and advocating for surgical standards, professionalism and education.

The passing of the constitutional updates is testament to the power of collaboration and what can be achieved when stakeholders from across our network come together for a common purpose. What is heartening to see is the unity of feeling that a strong College is a benefit to all.

Thank you to everyone who supported this initiative.

I feel a real sense of renewal and optimism as we close out the year and look towards 2025 and beyond. After a challenging 18 months for our College, green shoots of change are emerging.

Professor Owen Ung

Vice President
Chair Governance Committee
Chair International Engagement