We are proud to join with Sydney Health Ethics to invite clinicians, educators, students, researchers, policymakers and community partners to an afternoon dedicated to turning ethical insight into practical action for rural health.
The event centres on the Prof Stephen Lee Lecture in Ethics, created in 2026 to honour Clinical Professor Stephen Lee. Over five decades, Professor Lee championed the principle of Patients First. This annual lecture continues that legacy by encouraging future clinicians to put patient interests at the heart of decision making, particularly in rural contexts.
This year’s lecture will be delivered by Professor Jenny May AM, Australia’s National Rural Health Commissioner. Appointed in 2024, Professor May brings more than 35 years’ experience as a rural GP, educator and advocate. She is a Fellow of both RACGP and ACRRM, and was recognised as a Member of the Order of Australia in 2016 for her significant service to community health in rural and regional communities.
Her work as National Rural Health Commissioner focuses on strengthening rural health policy, improving workforce pathways and advocating for equitable access to safe, high quality care across Australia.
Following the lecture, a panel of rural health and ethics leaders will explore the theme Ethics in Place and what it means for health equity in rural and regional communities. The panel includes:
- Associate Professor Claire Hooker, Sydney Health Ethics
- Dr Rebecca McNaught, UCRH
- Associate Professor Emma Walke, UCRH
This discussion will unpack how place, culture and community shape ethical decision making and the pursuit of equity in rural care.
Follow this link for more information about attending the event in person.
Follow this link for more information about joining the event online.
