Our birthday Standards Heroes have been nominated by their peers to represent all our contributors - individuals we consider to be the real heroes of standards, in Australia and internationally. We thank those who contribute their knowledge and expertise, service, and time to Standards Australia for the benefit of the Australian community.  

John Tucker was CEO of Standards Australia from 2004-2009.
How did you become involved in standards development?  

I was CEO of Standards Australia from 2004-2009. This was a challenging and rewarding time to lead the organisation immediately following the sale and float of Standards Australia’s publishing and certification services in 2003. Standards Australia took the opportunity to identify what was important to members, nominating organisations, key stakeholders and other participants in order to develop and deliver timely, efficient and internationally aligned Australian Standards.  

What role have standards played in your career?   

With a diverse background in workplace health and safety and then in health facility operations, ensuring compliance with risk management and clinical standards have been essential across multiple industries in which I have been engaged.  

What is a project you’ve been particularly proud to have helped deliver? 

I was especially proud to promote Standards Australia’s engagement with APEC assisting South-East Asian neighbours and economies to assess and address gaps in critical infrastructure standards that are essential for ensuring national safety and security.  

I was also pleased to do my part to expedite publication of relevant structural fire standards to assist Victoria’s recovery in a timely manner following the devastating Black Saturday bushfires of 2009.        

Outside of standards development, what have been some highlights of your career? 

I have spent this final decade of my career managing private health facilities, ensuring the highest level of patient safety and satisfaction on a sustainable basis in commercial and not for profit hospitals. This has been extremely satisfying, managing service delivery and relationships with patients, visitors, families, doctors, nurses, allied health, all staff and contractors.

What do you think the future of standardisation looks like? 

Standards are essential and underpin each and every aspect of the economy, industries, households and daily life. Whether recognised or not, the future of standards could not be stronger as the role they play is essential.    

Is there anything you’d like to say or mention about Standards Australia’s centenary year?

I congratulate Standards Australia for engaging positively and generously to help align Australian and international standards to achieve maximum national benefit, year in and year out.    

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