INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIAN HEALTH AND EAR DISEASE
Professor Kelvin Kong AM, Royal Australasian College of Surgeons Fellow Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon Worimi Nation, Australia &
School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Australia &
Honorary Professor, Macquarie University &
Adjunct Professor, University of NSW, Australia
RESEARCHER PROFILE
Filmed in Newcastle, NSW, Australia | October 2025
Professor Kelvin Kong feels incredibly fortunate to lead a fulfilling life surrounded by his loved ones. With a demonstrated history of service in the health industry, he brings a wealth of expertise across various sectors including clinical research, medical education, surgery, paediatrics, health policy, and Indigenous education. Kelvin started his university, residing at New College in 1992, which brings him fond memories. Graduating from medicine from the University of NSW, Kelvin continued his studies and became a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) and Australian Society of Otolaryngology, head & neck Society (ASOHNS).
Based in Newcastle on Awabakal and Worimi Country, Kelvin specialises in Paediatric & Adult Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery. His practice encompasses a diverse range of adult and paediatric patients, with a particular interest in Paediatric Airway and Cochlear Implantation.
Beyond his clinical work, Kelvin is deeply committed to community service. His dedication to improving health outcomes extends to his role as a Professor at the University of Newcastle’s School of Medicine and Public Health, as well as his Honorary Professorships at Macquarie University and Associate Professorships UNSW. He established the Muku (Ear) Indigenous Ear Research program and strongly involved in many facets of research, particularly in relation to engaging community in research and creating career pathways. He is the senior examiner of the ORL Mini-court for RACS and member of the National Ear and Hearing Health Partnership Committee to highlight a few.
Hailing from the Worimi people of Port Stephens, NSW, Kelvin’s heritage informs his passion for health and education improvement initiatives. He remains grounded by the support of his family, who continue to inspire him in his efforts to give back to the community. Through his advocacy, research, and clinical practice, Kelvin strives to make a positive impact on the lives of others, guided by his commitment to equity and the well-being of all.
Source: Supplied
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8384-0149
-
Access to dental care for priority populations
Professor Dileep Sharma is a distinguished dental educator and researcher who currently serves as Professor and Discipline Head of Oral Health at the University of Newcastle, Australia. With over two decades of experience spanning clinical practice, research leadership, and academic mentorship, Professor Sharma has established himself as a leading authority in oral health education and interdisciplinary research.
-
CASE STUDY Large scale genetic study finds link between Irritable Bowel Syndrome & cardiovascular system
Research published April 2024 in the journal Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology sheds light on disease mechanisms common to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
-
Big data to improve the use of antidepressant medicines in aged care
Georgina Hughes is a pharmacist & PhD Candidate with the University of South Australia Clinical and Health Sciences and the Registry of Senior Australians (ROSA), undertaking research at South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI).
Georgina’s PhD study and first published paper was on how to improve the safe and effective use of antidepressant medicines and optimise quality use of medicines in older people accessing residential aged care.
