Dean Duncan is a champion of diversity, social justice and equality. A proud Kamilaroi man from Moree; Dean has made a lifelong contribution and commitment to advocating for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, their families and communities. This was recognised in 2019 with Dean being awarded National NAIDOC Week Person of The Year.
He has spent more than 25 years as an educator and senior lecturer, with the aim of increasing the number of qualifications held by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
As the Associate Director of Indigenous Education at the Weemala Indigenous Higher Education Unit, he introduced the first Bachelor of Midwifery (Indigenous) and Away from Base program – a key component in the Closing the Gap strategy for maternal health outcomes.
Dean’s inclusive approach and fierce advocacy for diversity make him an inspirational role model for all Australians. He is the Manager, First Nations Health Promotions Team, VicHeal, supporting communities to lead healthy lifestyles whilst creating ongoing self determination by community leaders.
Dean has also served in the Australian Army, on active service deployment, worked with children in Out of Home Care nationally, Indigenous Player Development Manager with an AFL Club and most recently as General Manager of The Royal Australian College of GP's.
Dean has dedicated his life to making a difference and our future generations will benefit from his commitment