The Australian Medical Association has awarded Perth GP Dr Rajeshwary (Raji) Krishnan its prestigious President’s Award for her outstanding dedication to improving the health outcomes of multiple generations of First Nations families.
Dr Krishnan, who leads a multidisciplinary team at Pramana Medical Centre in Gosnells, was recognised at the federal AMA’s annual gala dinner for her pioneering approach to team-based care and her commitment to marginalised communities. The clinic serves more than 6,500 patients, 65 per cent of whom identify as First Nations.
AMA President Prof. Steve Robson said Dr Krishnan’s work epitomised the values of compassion, collaboration, and community. AMA Vice President Dr Danielle McMullen, who visited the clinic, described it as “a beacon of hope” for general practice across the country.
“By the time we walked out of that clinic, we were so enlivened by the hope it brings and the passion they have for their community,” Dr McMullen said.
Speaking at the awards night, Dr Krishnan said she felt “extremely privileged” to work in mainstream general practice with a strong focus on First Nations health.
“As a family physician, I believe my role is to understand a person’s story—where they came from, where they are today, and where they are going,” she said.
“The art of passing on knowledge was originally created by First Nations people, and I feel grateful to have been guided by them.”
Dr Krishnan drew parallels between the disadvantage experienced by Indigenous Australians and what she encountered earlier in her career while working in impoverished regions of India.
“Issues such as limited access to healthcare, ineffective policy implementation, and lack of basic housing resonated deeply with me,” she said.
“It gave me the drive to help address the challenges faced by this vulnerable population, who have so generously shared their land and welcomed me with open arms.”
Dr Krishnan credited her clinic’s success to a shared vision of holistic, patient-centred care delivered under one roof. She also acknowledged the crucial support of her team — including her daughter, who works alongside her at the practice.
The AMA’s President’s Award recognises individuals who make an extraordinary contribution to health and wellbeing in Australia.
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