OPERATIONAL HUBSMaali
The Maali Hub is dedicated to supporting First Nations Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students and early to mid-career researchers in Australia. Its primary objective is to elevate the representation of First Nations health researchers by providing support and guidance through scholarships and stipends and other capability building activities. The Maali Hub empowers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholars to complete their studies, contributing to the advancement of First Nations health research. Operating within a collaborative network, it underscores the importance of collective efforts in achieving common objectives.
Building capability in Indigenous Researchers
Our team
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Sandra Eades
Maali Lead
Professor Sandra Eades AO is a Noongar woman from Mount Barker, WA. She completed her medical degree in 1990 and after working as a GP. In 2003 she became Australia's first Aboriginal medical doctor to be awarded a PhD.. Professor Eades was named NSW Woman of the Year 2006 in recognition of her research contributions to Aboriginal communities and has received a 'Deadly Award' (National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Awards) for Outstanding Achievement in Health. As well as Associate Dean (Indigenous), she is a Professor at the Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health.
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Daniel McAullay
Maali Co-Lead
Professor Dan McAullay is a Noongar man and the Dean of Kurongkurl Katitjin and ECU's Director, Aboriginal Research. Dan is a Registered Nurse (BSc) and has postgraduate qualifications in Epidemiology and Primary Health Care at Master and Doctorate levels. He has considerable experience in Aboriginal health research, policy and practice and has provided advice to several government departments and non-government organisations, including prominent research institutes and has sat on several groups providing advice to State and Commonwealth governments in the area of health and research. He has a strong research track record, with his primary research areas of interest including maternal, infant and child health, primary health care and other health services research.
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Shawn Kelly
Maali Hub Coordinator
Shawn is an experienced higher education professional with a background in student and community engagement across both Australia and the UK. With over five years in the sector, he has worked extensively to support inclusive programs that connect students, alumni, and broader university communities.
He is currently a Project Officer (Indigenous Epidemiology and Health), where he contributes to initiatives that aim to improve health outcomes for Indigenous communities through research, data, and culturally informed approaches.
Passionate about equity and access, Shawn is especially committed to supporting Indigenous peoples through culturally respectful and community-led initiatives. His work has focused on creating platforms that amplify Indigenous voices, increase participation in education and research, and ensure funding opportunities reach those who need them most.
Shawn brings a collaborative, thoughtful approach to engagement, with a strong emphasis on cultural awareness, empowerment, and long-term impact.
