With passions ranging from policy to poetry, Professor Dennis McDermott, Director of Poche Centres for Indigenous Health and Wellbeing, has accepted a role as Pro Vice-Chancellor Indigenous at La Trobe University.

Highly regarded for his commitment to Indigenous welfare, wellbeing and health justice, Professor McDermott has distinguished himself in his teaching and research, in particular his focus on early childhood, racism, and equity.

Professor McDermott’s legacy is exemplified by his determination to make a difference.

In his nine years at Flinders, including as the inaugural Director of the University’s Poche Centres from 2011, he has made a meaningful contribution to the community’s understanding of social determinants of Indigenous health.

This included applying his knowledge to inform policy change with the ultimate aim of delivering comparable health services to Indigenous people as received by others.

His scholarship and leadership have been an asset to Flinders and its Poche Centres and the University extends every good wish as Professor McDermott embarks on this next step in his career in February next year.