NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant has been named NSW Premier’s Woman of the Year for her service to health and for keeping the state informed during COVID-19.

She also took out the Woman of Excellence Award, which is given to a role model who has excelled in her chosen field and affected lasting change.

It’s another accolade for Dr Chant who was last year named NSW Public Servant of the Year for 2020.

Announcing the award at a ceremony on Wednesday, Premier Gladys Berejiklian said Dr Chant had given years of service to the health sector, including as the face of the government’s COVID-19 response over the last 12 months.

 “Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr Chant has been a familiar face, offering vital health information for our State in addition to years of service to the health sector,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Dr Chant is a role model, especially for women, and has absolutely excelled in her chosen field to affect lasting change.”

Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said Dr Chant had done an incredible job protecting the state through the pandemic and her work has been applauded around the world.

 “Dr Kerry Chant is an inspiration for all women, her leadership and dedication to her job ensured NSW was kept safe,” Ms Taylor said.

Dr Chant, an expert in the prevention and control of communicable diseases, is the longest serving NSW Chief Health Officer and has held senior positions in NSW Health since 1991.