Professor (Dr) Brad Murphy OAM

2026 Chancellor’s Distinguished Award

Practice Principal |  Ashfield Country Practice
Inaugural Mayne Professor | University of Queensland 
Inaugural Professor First Nations Medicine | Central Queensland University
(Bachelor of Medicine / Bachelor of Surgery, 2005)

Professor Brad Murphy OAM is a nationally respected leader in medicine whose career spans clinical practice, academia and health policy. A proud Kamilaroi man and one of the earliest Aboriginal medical graduates of JCU, his work has been defined by a lifelong commitment to improving healthcare outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, rural communities and Australian veterans.

Following graduation, Brad chose to practise in rural and remote Queensland, taking on early leadership as a Medical Superintendent in Eidsvold, where he managed both the local hospital and primary care services. This commitment to community-based care has remained central throughout his career, alongside his leadership of a nationally award-winning general practice providing care to hundreds of veterans with complex health needs.

Brad’s influence extends nationally through his leadership within the medical profession. As the inaugural Chair of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners’ National Standing Committee for Aboriginal Health, he played a pivotal role in establishing what is now the RACGP National Faculty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health, representing more than 15,000 general practitioners across Australia . He has also contributed to national health policy through advisory roles with organisations including the Prime Minister’s National Advisory Council on Veteran Mental Health.

Across multiple professorial appointments, Brad has shaped medical education and strengthened pathways for rural and First Nations students. His leadership, grounded in lived experience and service, continues to influence healthcare systems, professional practice and future generations of clinicians.

Prof Murphy’s career stands as a powerful example of service, leadership and advocacy, strengthening healthcare systems and communities across Australia.

Connect with Brad on LinkedIn.