Welcome
Indigenous Development supports Indigenous students, staff, researchers and communities across the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences.
We work to create a strong and supportive environment for Indigenous students from their first connection with the University, through their studies and into their careers. We support Indigenous students to thrive, connect with community, develop their skills and leadership, and pursue pathways into health and research.
We work alongside Indigenous and non-Indigenous staff to strengthen Indigenous leadership, knowledge and perspectives across education, research, engagement and the health workforce.
Through partnerships across the Faculty, University and community, Indigenous Development is helping build a stronger Indigenous presence in health and create opportunities that support Indigenous success, now and into the future.
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Professor Sandra Eades AO
Deputy Dean, Indigenous, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences
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Professor Shawana Andrews
Associate Dean, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences
Contact us / Our team
Truth Telling in Health and The Renaming Project
The University of Melbourne and the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences (MDHS) are deeply committed to truth-telling and reconciliation. As outlined in Dhoombak Goobgoowana: Vol. 1, the de-naming and renaming of spaces are critical steps in confronting harmful colonial legacies, including connections to systemic racism and the eugenics movement. Through this project, we seek to develop an inclusive and integrated approach that invites our entire community to truthfully acknowledge the past and walk together toward a future built on equity, healing, and shared responsibility. These actions not only honour the histories and voices that have long been marginalised but also promote meaningful reflection and dialogue—supporting our ongoing journey toward a more just and inclusive University.
Reports and Publications
The Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences' support for Indigenous health, education, and leadership is guided by several strategic plans, including:The work of the Indigenous Development team is informed by several strategic plans, including
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Advancing Health 2030
The new strategic plan for the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences.
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Murmuk Djerring
The University of Melbourne Indigenous Strategy 2023 - 2027.
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Sharing Knowledge and Future Leaders—Indigenous Development
Outlines our Faculty's efforts to contribute sustainably to better health, education, and living standards for Indigenous Australians.
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A Uniquely Australian Faculty
Outlines some of the many ways we have worked and continue to work towards reconciliation across the Faculty: from our employment practices to our teaching programs
Header artwork note: The header artwork combines an image of white blood cells destroying cancerous target cells and an illustration representing generations of people sustained by the Myrnong (yam daisy) - a historical staple food of Indigenous people, bringing together Indigenous culture, community and the health sciences. The artwork is the product of a collaboration between Shawana Andrews, Misty Jenkins, Nichole Allder and Kristi Roberts.