At the 2025 UNSW Staff Service Awards held on 4 November, Kirby Institute Patron, Hon Michael Kirby AC CMG was among those recognised for their significant milestones and contributions to UNSW.
Michael Kirby received the Vice-Chancellor’s Community Contribution Award, which recognises and celebrates those who have made significant contributions to UNSW and played a leading role in the community for 20 year or more. Over 400 people were recognised at the event with Awards and anniversaries.
Nominated by Kirby Institute Director, Scientia Professor Anthony Kelleher, Michael Kirby was recognised for his longstanding relationship with the Kirby Institute and UNSW as an advocate, facilitator of opportunities, representative, and friend.
Michael Kirby shared a close professional and personal relationship with the Institute’s Inaugural Director, the late Scientia Professor David Cooper AC since the earliest days of its inception. Between them, they served on many influential international committees and fulfilled leadership roles advocating for the rights of people living with HIV, and for increased funding for HIV research.
The Institute was originally known as the National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research, but was renamed in Michael Kirby’s honour in 2011 for his human rights-based approach to health and health equity; an ethos that has underpinned the Kirby Institute since its beginning. He was appointed Patron of the Kirby Institute in 2013.
“Michael has been an unparalleled advocate for the Kirby Institute and UNSW’s Faculty of Medicine & Health, and our shared commitments to health as a human right,” said Prof Kelleher. “We have been incredibly fortunate to have been the beneficiary not only of his personal philanthropy, but as a globally renowned advocate, he has facilitated innumerable opportunities to expand our network of supporters. He has been a sage advisor, fierce advocate, and has personally invested his time and dedication to our institute’s pursuit of health for all. As a nationally and globally recognised champion of human rights, we are grateful for his ongoing support.”
UNSW Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Attila Brungs, presenting the Vice-Chancellor’s Community Contribution Awards. Credit: UNSW
Although Michael Kirby was not able to attend the UNSW Staff Service Awards due to international work commitments, his recognition was read by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Attila Brungs, who expressed that it is the people of UNSW who bring to life its mission to serve the public good through transformative education, innovative research and meaningful engagement with people, communities and partners in Australia and around the world.