Professor Dan McAullay, Dean of Kurongkurl Katitjin.
Professor Dan McAullay, Dean of Kurongkurl Katitjin has been appointed to the Future Health Research and Innovation (FHRI) Fund Advisory Council in Western Australia.
The Hon. Stephen Dawson MLC, Minister for Medical Research in WA announced the appointment of Professor Dan McAullay and Marie Smyth for two-year terms.
Both highly experienced leaders, the move aims to strengthen the Advisory Council's capability as WA's flagship health and medical research fund.
Together they will enhance the collective expertise across research excellence, Aboriginal health, and innovation and translation—all critical to delivering the Western Australian FHRI Fund Strategy 2025-30.
Professor McAullay will strengthen culturally informed advice to government, and is a nationally recognised leader in Aboriginal health research. Ms Smyth brings more than 35 years of leadership experience, heading global partnerships spanning government, industry, innovation, and research.
"This role is a chance to bring what we learn with communities every day at ECU into a space where it can guide major investments in research, innovation and, ultimately, better health for Aboriginal people and all Western Australians," Professor McAullay said.
"At Kurongkurl Katitjin and ECU we're focused on research that is grounded in culture and community; I'm excited to carry that approach into the FHRI Fund Advisory Council so our work together leads to real, long-term change."
Medical Research Minister Stephen Dawson said the FHRI Fund is a key driver of health and medical research and innovation in WA.
"These appointments will help ensure we continue to deliver on our vision of improving health outcomes and building a strong, sustainable research sector for Western Australia," Minister Dawson said.
"Professor McAullay's leadership in Aboriginal health research and Ms Smyth's leadership experience in the technology sector will be invaluable to the Advisory Council.
"The Cook Government is focused on supporting our medical research ecosystem here in WA, and these additions to the FHRI Advisory Council will further support this mission."
The FHRI Fund Advisory Council provides independent advice to the Minister on the strategic direction and investment priorities of the fund, playing a critical role in ensuring long-term benefits for Western Australians.
Since its establishment in 2020, the FHRI Fund has awarded more than $282 million to over 810 recipients, with a further $292 million to be invested over the next four years.
