Philip Armstrong Appointed as Chief Executive Officer of VMHPAA
- Shane Warren
- May 11
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 9
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
11 May 2025
Philip Armstrong Appointed as Chief Executive Officer of VMHPAA
The Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) is proud to announce the appointment of Philip Armstrong as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.
Philip brings over three decades of leadership and innovation in the mental health, counselling, and community support sectors. His appointment marks a pivotal moment for VMHPAA as it continues its mission to represent and advance the interests of vocationally trained mental health practitioners across Australia.
“Philip is a nationally respected voice in mental health policy, supervision, and advocacy,” said Shane Warren VMHPAA Chair. “His career reflects a lifelong commitment to equity, access, and professionalism in the sector - values that align perfectly with VMHPAA’s vision.”
A former CEO of a peak professional body and a long-standing advocate for vocational education, Philip has been instrumental in shaping national frameworks in supervision, professional development, and workforce standards. His lived experience, dedication to inclusive practices, and strategic insight will strengthen VMHPAA’s role as a leading voice for diploma - and certificate -qualified practitioners who deliver essential frontline mental health care.
“I’m honoured to lead an organisation that champions the often-overlooked practitioners who are the backbone of community mental health,” said Philip. “We will be unapologetic in advocating for fair, evidence-based policy, robust professional pathways, and recognition of the vital contribution our members make every day across the country.”
As CEO, Philip will lead VMHPAA’s national engagement, policy submissions, and capacity-building initiatives, including upcoming campaign for changes to the Draft National Standards and to improve recognition of the vocational mental health workforce.
For media enquiries or to request an interview, please contact:
Media and Communications
VMHPAA