Professor Paul Torzillo has been awarded the prestigious Menzies Medallion for being a national leader in Aboriginal health care, research and policy.

Professor Torzillo was presented the award at the 2018 Menzies Oration in recognition of his work to improve the health of Aboriginal people across urban, rural and remote Australia.  

The Professor is also a Senior Respiratory and Intensive Care Physician at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, and Medical Director of the Nganampa Health Council in South Australia.

Menzies Director, Professor Alan Cass, says Professor Torzillo has been a tireless campaigner for Aboriginal health in the Northern Territory, and across Australia, and has been a key and active collaborator with Menzies. 

“Professor Torzillo has maintained his involvement with Menzies for many years particularly working in research collaboration on ear disease, vaccines and respiratory disease, said Professor Cass.

“His work in Aboriginal health care delivery, research and advocacy has demonstrated how best-practice, evidence-based care can be delivered in both community and hospital settings. He is someone who has generated evidence about what works, implemented it and effectively advocated for change in policy and practice.”

The Menzies Board has created a new award this year The Companion of Menzies to recognise exceptional contributions and support to the continued development and success of Menzies School of Health Research.

The Inaugural Recipients are Dr Valerie Asche, The Hon Austin Asche AC QC and Richard Ryan AO. 

Dr Valerie Asche who led Menzies’ microbiology unit from 1986 to 1994 and continues her support for Menzies with the annual Val Asche Prize for Academic Excellence. 

The Hon Austin Asche AC QC, former Northern Territory Administrator, Chief Justice and Inaugural Chair of the Northern Territory University who was recognised for his outstanding support to Menzies over the years.

Richard Ryan AO who was Chair of the Menzies Board for numerous years before becoming the Inaugural Vice Chancellor of the Charles Darwin University. Mr Ryan and his family also provide annual support for Menzies and Charles Darwin University with the Ryan Family Prize at Menzies and the Ryan Family Awards at CDU.