The Leukaemia Foundation has announced the appointment of Professor James Ward to its Board, effective immediately. This decision reflects the Foundation’s commitment to enhancing support for all Australians impacted by blood cancer, particularly those from Indigenous communities. Professor Ward’s extensive experience and dedication to equity in health care will play a crucial role in these efforts.
Professor Ward, a proud Pitjantjatjara and Narungga man, currently serves as the Director of the University of Queensland Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, a position he has held since 2020. Over his nearly 30-year career, he has led community-driven public health and infectious disease research. His work has established policy and research partnerships across more than 100 Indigenous communities, significantly influencing clinical practice and shaping national guidelines.
Prior to his current role, Professor Ward was the Head of Infection and Immunity – Aboriginal Health at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) from 2014 to 2019. He is recognized as a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences and is an Australian Research Council Laureate Fellow. His academic credentials include a PhD, along with extensive expertise in systems change, equity, and collaboration with the Aboriginal community-controlled health sector.
Strengthening Commitment to Indigenous Health Equity
The appointment has been welcomed by Lucio Di Giallonardo, Chair of the Leukaemia Foundation Board. He expressed enthusiasm about Professor Ward joining the team, stating, “We are honoured to welcome Professor Ward to our Board. His leadership and experience will strengthen our capacity to address the unacceptable disparities in blood cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship faced by First Nations Australians.”
Di Giallonardo emphasized the importance of ensuring that the Foundation’s policies, support services, and advocacy reflect the diverse needs of all Australians confronting blood cancer. “With Professor Ward’s guidance and support, the Leukaemia Foundation is more committed than ever to addressing these critical issues. We believe that blood cancer does not, and should not, discriminate and neither should care, support, or hope.”
The Foundation’s mission is clear: to tackle the inequalities that have persisted within the healthcare system for far too long. Di Giallonardo remarked, “With Professor Ward joining our Board, we take a bold step forward in ensuring that the inequalities that have persisted for too long are addressed head-on.”
Advancing Health Initiatives for All Australians
Professor Ward’s appointment signals a significant step towards enhancing the Foundation’s outreach and support for those affected by blood cancer. His leadership is anticipated to drive further initiatives that will promote equity in health services across Australia.
As the Leukaemia Foundation continues its mission, it aims to ensure that every Australian affected by blood cancer receives the care and support they need, regardless of their background or location. With the addition of Professor Ward to its Board, the organization is poised to make substantial strides in its efforts to combat blood cancer and improve health outcomes for Indigenous Australians and the wider community alike.
