Dr Todd Fernando is a central figure in advancing social justice and policy in Australia. A descendant of the Kalarie Peoples of the Wiradjuri Nation who identifies as queer. Todd is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne’s School of Population and Global Health. Holding a PhD in Medical Anthropology, his research examines the experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals within Australian healthcare settings, with a special focus on the unique contributions of queer Indigenous perspectives to healing practices and research methodologies.
During his tenure as the Victorian Commissioner for LGBTQIA+ Communities from 2021 to 2023, he played a crucial role in developing and implementing the Whole of Victorian Government LGBTIQ+ Strategy. This initiative set a benchmark for inclusive government policy and was complemented by the Rainbow Ready Roadmap, focusing on regional development to ensure equitable advances in social policy across both urban and rural Victoria. Dr Fernando’s strategic leadership has been pivotal in driving cultural safety, health equity, and intersectional policy reform throughout the public and private sectors in Australia.
Talking Points
First Nation's Histories (Cultural, Social, Political)
First Nation's Histories (Cultural, Social, Political)
First Nation's Futures (Economic, Social, Political)
First Nation's Futures (Economic, Social, Political)
First Nation's LGBTIQ+ Histories and Futures
First Nation's LGBTIQ+ Histories and Futures
Embedding Cultural Safety within Corporate and/or NGOs
Embedding Cultural Safety within Corporate and/or NGOs
The Future of Australia where are we going and how can Corporate or NGOs get on board
The Future of Australia where are we going and how can Corporate or NGOs get on board
Cultural and Political Power
Cultural and Political Power
Building Influence: Advocacy versus Activism
Building Influence: Advocacy versus Activism
Shifting the Policy, Changing the Narrative
Shifting the Policy, Changing the Narrative
Todd was absolutely fantastic and well-received by everyone at the conference. we would book Todd to speak again in a heartbeat. His topic was spot on for what we wanted. ... keep reading Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA)
