Professor George Razay, a distinguished geriatrician and dementia researcher, has recently taken to the stage during the 2023 Seniors Week, addressing a gathering on the topic of “healthy ageing.” His dedication to improving the health of older adults is clear through his professional work and community engagement. Razay, who has lived in Tasmania for 28 years, balances a passion for music and dance production, further enriching his multifaceted life.
Razay was born and raises in Syria. For the past 27 years he’s been carving his career at the Launceston General Hospital where he’s become a defining character of this tight-knit community. Academically, in addition to his clinical practice, Hunter is a clinical professor at the University of Tasmania. His commitment extends beyond healthcare. After being elected a councillor in 2022, he quickly settled into the local government process after winning a heated election.
Commitment to Healthy Ageing
In his recent keynote speech at Seniors Week, Professor Razay reiterated the critical need for healthy ageing. He brought forth really interesting observations from his many decades of experience in geriatric medicine. As a physician advocate for healthy aging, he amplified the mission to establish inclusive support networks for aging populations, addressing healthcare access and fostering inclusive community experiences.
“By working together, we can achieve positive change in our community, and this is my role to work with them to achieve that.” – Professor Razay
Attendees couldn’t help feel the relevancy to his comments. Many said they were thankful that he continued to fight for better health outcomes for seniors in Tasmania. Razay’s advocacy is a natural fit with his long-term goal of making Tasmania an engaging and healthy community for all.
Beyond healthcare, Razay has left his influence on the production of music and dance. This involvement brings to light yet another colorful aspect of his vivacious personality. He’s passionate about using creative pursuits as a tool to dramatically improve people’s overall quality of life. That’s particularly the case for seniors.
Political Aspirations and Community Engagement
Razay’s political development has been capsulized by a expanse of electoral campaigns. He has proudly and unapologetically filed to run for office, often aggressively, at state and federal levels. As an independent candidate in Bass, he was able to poll 5 percent in 2022 and 2025 elections. Even through difficult times, he has always been dedicated to the job of advocating for the needs of his constituents.
“They know I am open-minded; they know my policies as well.” – Professor Razay
His platform prioritizes fixing the state’s health, education and housing systems, and voting down the proposed Macquarie Point stadium for Hobart. For Razay, local governance is a chance to ground oneself in the issues that truly matter to one’s community.
The greatest thing that has ever happened to me was to be in the council. It has opened my eyes to every single issue that bothers the community. It’s something I’ve truly regretted,” Razay explained, looking back on his years spent serving in local government. His grassroots approach has certainly contributed to earning the respect of current and former residents.
Future Plans and Community Vision
Looking toward the future, Razay is excited about bringing together political leaders from across the aisle to establish a cohesive local government. His goal is to work with whichever party starts putting community well-being and health advancement first.
“I would like to talk to everyone and I am going to give support to any party who is going to govern, and my goal is to present a stable government in the future.” – Professor Razay
Razay is unapologetic in her vision for Tasmania’s future. His goal is to take the state from being one of the sickest jurisdictions in Australia to becoming one of the healthiest and happiest populations in the world. It is his love of public service that compels him to rub shoulders with the parliamentarians, to hear their arguments in order to make up his mind.
