Leila Thurling
Indigenous Health Scholarship
Monash University, Vic.
Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine
Scholarship Awarded 2025
Sponsored by:
Rotary Club of Geelong Central
Student Profile
My name is Leila and I am a proud Palawa woman and a third-year medical student at Monash University. I was born in Nowra, New South Wales, and spent much of my early life moving across Australia, living in places such as Wagga Wagga, Adelaide and Ballarat. I completed high school at Damascus College Ballarat before beginning my medical degree at Monash University in 2023.
I come from a strong lineage of healthcare workers – both my mother and grandmother were nurses, which inspired my passion for medicine and deepened my understanding of healthcare in Australia. This background, combined with my lived experiences and culture, has shaped my commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health.
Throughout my studies, I have endeavoured to embrace leadership and advocacy roles, including my involvement in Indigenous Student Symposiums and serving as the Pre-Clinical Indigenous Student Representative. I am also an active member of the Weenthunga Health Network, further strengthening my connection to community and culture.
I am deeply passionate about improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. With a strong focus on rural and community healthcare, I aspire to become a General Practitioner dedicated to serving and empowering Indigenous communities.
How will I contribute to improving Indigenous health as a qualified medical practitioner or health worker?
As a First Nations woman, I understand the barriers Indigenous peoples face within the healthcare system and aspire to be a doctor who honours and respects the identities of my patients. Recognising the critical importance of accessible healthcare in rural areas, I am determined to make a meaningful impact by working as a General Practitioner in these communities.
I am committed to using my education and hands-on clinical experiences to drive positive change in healthcare accessibility and improve patient outcomes.
By dedicating myself to improving health outcomes and fostering a supportive environment for Indigenous patients, I hope to contribute to closing the health gap and ensuring all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples receive the care they deserve.