Flinders University Professor Jaquelyne Hughes, an internationally acclaimed researcher and clinician in the field of kidney health, has delivered the Arthur E Mills Oration at the 2025 Convocation of The Royal Australasian College of Physicians.
Subsequently, Professor Jaquelyne Hughes received the Arthur E Mills Oration Medal for showcasing leadership and inspiration to the health sector. Professor Hughes has been lauded for her groundbreaking and life-saving contributions to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector.
The proud Goemulgal ipeka (woman) of the Wagadagam people from Mabuyag Island has been living on Larrakia country for many years now and has had a lasting impact on the Territory community.
As a Matthew Flinders Professor and the first-ever Clinical Research Professor for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Advancement at Flinders University in Darwin, Professor Hughes brings expertise as a specialist nephrologist. Her extensive background encompasses chronic kidney disease, dialysis and pioneering research and advancements in health systems.
For over 15 years, she has been at the forefront of a progressive movement in medicine that values cultural wisdom and comprehensive understanding alongside the clinical expertise of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healthcare providers.
Professor Hughes from the College of Medicine and Public Health, Rural and Remote Health in the Northern Territory (NT) says she is honoured to receive this accolade.
“My work is made possible by the invaluable support and guidance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Together, we are reshaping the healthcare system to provide comprehensive care that respects the entirety of individuals’ well-being. We understand that integrating cultural perspectives enhances clinical effectiveness,” she says.
Professor Robyn Aitken, Flinders University’s Dean of Rural and Remote Health says Professor Hughes contributes significantly to the University’s well-established and expanding health and medical research capacities in the NT and beyond.
“She demonstrates what can be achieved by actively engaging with communities, listening to and responding to their needs and applying clinical and research expertise through a cultural perspective to advance healthcare,” Professor Aitken says.
“Thanks to her ongoing efforts, many lives have been improved in the NT and beyond. She truly exemplifies inspirational leadership, and we are immensely proud to see her exceptional talent recognised through this award.”
Arthur E Mills Oration was endowed in 1950 by his widow and established within the Royal Australasian College of Physicians for the promotion and encouragement of medical education and general culture.
Professor Hughes was also awarded the prestigious National Cranlana Research Leadership Award by the Lowitja Institute in 2023 and is a former Top End NAIDOC Person of the Year.