AFTER announcing her retirement from ACT politics last week, former Canberra Liberals member for Murrumbidgee Giulia Jones has been appointed as CEO of Painaustralia.

In a statement, Mrs Jones said she was “honoured” to take up the position with the peak body for helping people living in chronic pain after last week stepping down from her position in the Legislative Assembly.

Painaustralia Chairman Duncan Lewis said Mrs Jones’ time in politics has proven her a determined advocate.

“Mrs Jones’ not only has a deep understanding of the health system, but a genuine empathy for people suffering from health-related issues,” said Mr Lewis.

“The board is certain she will provide robust advocacy into the future for those consumers who live with chronic pain.”

In her new role, Mrs Jones says she will connect with parliaments, practitioners and medical experts to help provide the best relief possible to those living with chronic pain.

“We need the community and government to look at pain in a new light—not just as a condition that is associated with other medical conditions – but a condition in and of itself,” said Mrs Jones.

“Understanding the pervasive effect pain is having on so many people in our community is difficult to grasp because so many people suffer in silence.

“It is obvious that people suffer physical pain on a wide variety of fronts, but we are only beginning to understand the impact mental pain can have on people, and how we need to address it.”