Sharon Ponniah

Sharon Ponniah leads Quantium Health’s public health analytics practice, driving innovation in healthcare system reform through advanced analytics. With teams across Australia, she partners with healthcare organisations, government agencies, and service providers to improve system efficiency and patient outcomes using data-driven insights.

With over 20 years of experience across public and private sectors in health and social care policy, Sharon specialises in programme evaluation, system reform, and health economics. Prior to joining Quantium Health, she was Health Economics and Public Policy Partner, leading PwC’s national mental health practice, where she leveraged her expertise in program management, evaluation, analysis, policy, and strategy development to drive significant healthcare initiatives. Her career has been driven by a passion to reduce inequity, increase sustainability and impact social agendas. Sharon has led strategic initiatives across aged care, screening, cancer, primary care, and mental health, delivering evidence-based reform programs that enhance healthcare delivery.

Sharon holds a PhD in Public Health and Epidemiology, alongside degrees in science with specialisations in neuro-anatomy and psychology. As a leader, she’s recognised for creating strong diverse partnerships, influencing difficult agendas through trust and consistency, and building high-performing teams with collaborative and positive cultures. Her commitment to addressing healthcare inequity is evident through her deep expertise working with First Nations and vulnerable cohorts. Sharon also serves as a Non-Executive Director at Lifeline Australia and special adviser to the Champions of Change Coalition.