"The greatest legacy of the Kirby Institute is not a single discovery, trial or fiscal accomplishment. A very special institution has been built. Communities have given the Institute its goals. That is the responsibility that the Kirby carries forward. The past forty years have been remarkable. Yet, I have every confidence that the next forty years will be greater still." – The Hon. Michael Kirby AC
At the Kirby Institute, we are proud of our research, which for over four decades has helped improve human health in Australia and abroad.
To commemorate our 40th year, we chose forty significant moments this institution has been part of. These are not necessarily all the best or most significant pieces of our history. This is a collection of powerful moments that signal the journey we have been on with our community and collaborators since 1986, from our origins within the St Vincent’s Hospital precinct in Darlinghurst, to our research portfolio of today spanning the globe.
Kirby Institute Director Professor Anthony Kelleher reflects on our 40-year history in the publication’s Foreword, and on what it means for the Kirby Institute’s future.
“Some things will not change about the Kirby Institute. We will always prioritise the health of people who are most impacted by infectious diseases and their complications. Our work will always reflect the belief that all people deserve equal access to high-quality health care, no matter who they are, where they were born, or which communities they belong to,” said Professor Kelleher.
As we mark this anniversary, we acknowledge and thank the researchers, professional staff, students, community partners, study participants, clinicians, policymakers and supporters whose contributions have helped shape the Kirby Institute over the past four decades.
"An ambitious future is not possible without the people who make the Kirby Institute what it is. That includes those who have been part of the team for decades, as well as those on their first day. Our greatest asset over forty years has been our people. That will not change for the next forty." – Kirby Institute Director, Professor Anthony Kelleher
READ: Kirby Institute – 40 Years of Impact 1986–2026