Congratulations Wurru Wurru Health Unit

The Wurru Wurru Health Unit (WWHU) has been awarded the 2025 Excellence Award for Innovation in Indigenous Higher Education, recognising their significant work in enhancing the Doctor of Medicine (MD) programme.

Named after the Sacred Kingfisher, a symbol of transformation and renewal in Wurundjeri culture, the WWHU has made substantial improvements to medical education at the university. In 2025, the unit completed a comprehensive, community led renewal of the MD curriculum, effectively integrating First Nations health perspectives across all four years of study.

Dr Ngaree Blow, Director of First Nations Health, explains, "Our curriculum renewal was guided by ongoing engagement with Elders, knowledge holders, and First Nations community members, ensuring our teaching reflects both local and national priorities in Indigenous health."

The renewed curriculum introduces several important elements, including First Nations tutors, co-teaching approaches that demonstrate respectful collaboration, regular cultural immersion opportunities, and relevant assessment tasks. These changes have been well-received by students and acknowledged by the Australian Medical Council.

The WWHU's success is a team effort, with members including Dr Ngaree Blow, Ms Madelyne Hudson-Buhagiar, Ms Avanah Brettschneider, Dr Nicolle Maganga, and Carly Anderson. Their work is having a positive influence on medical and health professions education beyond the University of Melbourne.

Tamara Clements, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Medical Education, notes the programme's impact: "Staff and students are supported to become culturally informed, aware, and humble learners."

This award-winning curriculum aims to ensure that future medical professionals are better prepared to provide culturally appropriate and effective healthcare for First Nations as well as all Australians. As the WWHU continues to improve medical education, its approach is being noticed across disciplines, contributing to the ongoing development of Indigenous education in higher education institutions.

The 2025 Excellence Award recognises the WWHU's commitment to thoughtfully integrating First Nations knowledge, voices, and priorities in medical education, setting a positive example for Indigenous health curricula in the region.

If you would like to know more about The Wurru Wurru Health Unit and their work, follow the link to their website.