Deanne Minniecon, Group Executive, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement, has been appointed as an Adjunct Associate Professor in the School of Public Health at the University of Queensland (UQ).

This appointment is a wonderful recognition of Deanne’s more than 30-year career in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and the significant contributions she has made across community, policy, leadership, research, teaching, and learning. It also acknowledges the valuable work Deanne has already undertaken with UQ and provides an opportunity for her to continue contributing to research, mentoring, teaching, and workforce development. 

For Diabetes Australia, this appointment creates opportunities to strengthen partnerships across the university sector and contribute to shaping future research, education, and workforce development. It helps ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, knowledge, and lived experiences continue to inform health research, education, and practice, while supporting the development of the next generation of health professionals and researchers.

This is a particularly meaningful appointment for Deanne, as it is her second Adjunct Associate Professor role alongside her existing position at Queensland University of Technology (QUT). It will enable her to further connect her work across community, policy and practice with the academic sector, helping to translate knowledge into improved outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Congratulations to Deanne on your well-deserved appointment.