Australian Federation of Medical Women

MWS NSW - Motherhood & Medicine | 6 Nov 2025
2025-11-06 18:30 - 2025-11-08 22:30 (Australia/Sydney) | L’Aqua Gold Room, Darling Harbour NSW, Australia
The Medical Women’s Society of NSW warmly invites members and non-members to an evening of insight and connection at “Motherhood and Medicine.”
Join MWS NSW for an engaging panel featuring:

Dr Monique Atkinson (Fertility Specialist & Gynaecologist) will present “Motherhood & Medicine – Finding Balance and Reclaiming Choice“

Alice Child (Somatic Sexologist, Sex Therapy & Sex Counsellor) will present “The Bedrock of Connection: Nurturing Love, Intimacy, and Sex in Demanding Careers“

Fiona Davies (CEO, Director of Workplace Relations and AMA (NSW) President) will present on “Motherhood and Medicine: Know Your Rights, Shape Your Future“

Enjoy a delicious three-course meal with stunning views of Darling Harbour, along with gift bags, a photo booth, and the opportunity to connect with fellow professionals.
Proudly sponsored by Genea Fertility.

Event Details
Date: Thu, 6 Nov, 6:30pm – 10:30pm AEDT
Location: L’Aqua Gold Room, Darling Harbour NSW, Australia
Register: Register here
Who Can Attend: Members & Non-Members of the Medical Women’s Society of NSW are welcome.

More Information
Visit the Motherhood & Medicine event page

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

2025 MWIA Triennial Congress | 12-14 October
2025-10-12 - 2025-10-14 | Hilton Grand Nile Hotel, Cairo, Egypt
MWIA President’s Welcome Message
Dear Distinguished Delegates, Colleagues and Friends,
It is with great excitement that I invite you to join us at the the 33rd MWIA International Congress of the Medical Women’s International Association scheduled to take place in October, 2025, in Cairo, Egypt. Founded in 1919, the Medical Women’s International Association has, for over a hundred and five years, directed its efforts and resources to proactively empower women in medicine and to continuously strive to improve the health and wellbeing of women and girls and their communities around the world.
I salute and value the Local Organizing Committee led by the Egyptian Medical Women’s Association (EMWA) who are working hard to ensure a memorable Congress. The Congress theme aligns with the MWIA President’s Triennial Theme: “One Humanity: Health Solutions through our Partnerships” The passion and dedication of our members and allies towards advancing women’s health globally has gained traction through the fostering of purposeful and strategic partnerships.
The Congress will bring together the voices of diverse practitioners and we look forward to rewarding scientific sessions and networking opportunities that will demonstrate the unique and transformative value we bring as medical women to global health. In addition, Congress participants will be able to explore the architectural and cultural treasures of Egypt and the Nile where there is a confluence ancient and modern civilisations.
After six years of steering the ship of MWIA as President, I will be preparing to hand over the affairs of our noble Association to the capable, committed and charismatic MWIA President Elect, Dr Amany Asfour who will be installed as the 35th President of MWIA. I wish her and the incoming executive committee members the best of blessings. You cannot afford to miss this historic moment.
So see you in Egypt 😍

Eleanor Ann Nwadinobi, MBBS, EMA, FAAC
President, MWIA

About MWIA 2025 Congress
The 33rd Medical Women International Association (MWIA) Congress promises to be a transformative gathering, uniting medical professionals from across the globe to advance women’s health and equity. Discover the vision, leadership, and hosts behind this remarkable event.

Congress Details
Date: 12-14 October 2025
Location: Hilton Grand Nile Hotel, Cairo, Egypt
Register: Register here

More Information
Visit the MWIA 2025 Congress website

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Spotlight Series - A Chat with Dr Jennifer Green - 13 March 2025
2025-03-13 20:00 - 21:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | On-line / Zoom
AFMW is interviewing Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr Jennifer Green to discuss International Orthopaedic Diversity Alliance. The online session will be held 8pm AEDT Wednesday 13 March 2025. AFMW members and non-members are invited to attend this Zoom session.

About Dr Jennifer Green

Dr Jennifer Green is an Orthopaedic Hand & Wrist Surgeon based in Canberra with Fellowship Training from the Indiana Hand Centre, Indianapolis, USA and Institut de la Main, Paris, France. Leadership is responsible for the most effective gender diversity initiatives and Dr Green advocates for the transparent inclusion of women at every level of organisational leadership and for all opportunities.
Dr Green is the founder of the International Orthopaedic Diversity Alliance, a collaboration to improve equity in access to high quality orthopaedic care through increasing the inclusion of women and under-represented minorities in orthopaedics. She is also the Secretary of the Australian Hand Surgery Society and the Australian Representative on the Asia Pacific Federation of Societies for Surgery of the Hand (APFSSH).
Dr Green has held many leadership roles including as an AOA Board Member & AOA Orthopaedic Women’s Link Committee Chair. She has been the AOA Representative to the Diversity Council of Australia and on many committees where she has championed equity in health care including RACS Women in Surgery Section, RACS ACT, AOA Champions of Change, AOA Cultural Inclusion Working Group and as the AHSS representative to the Australian Ethical Health Care Alliance.
[Visit Canberra Hand Centre]

Meeting Details
Date: Thurs 13 March 2025
Time: 8pm AEDT
Location / Register: Via Zoom, register here

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Spotlight Series - A Chat with Dr James Allen - 5 Feb 2025
2025-02-05 20:00 - 21:00 (Australia/Sydney) | On-line / Zoom
Watch the Chat Recap Video >>

AFMW is interviewing Dr James Allen, founder of an Australian LGBTIQ youth harm prevention charity The Orbona Foundation, on Wed 5 Feb 2025 at 8pm AEDT. AFMW members and non-members are invited to attend this Zoom session.

About Dr James Allen
James Allen completed bachelors degrees in medicine, surgery and law at Monash in 2004. He is a Fellow of the Australasian College of Legal Medicine, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and an Associate Fellow of the College of Health Services Managers.
Following the suicides of two of his young LGBTIQASB+ patients in 2021, he founded The Orbona Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation to advance the welfare of LGBTIQASB+ children and youth. The foundation takes its name from Roman mythology in which Orbona was the goddess of abandoned children.
James is passionate about improving the education of medical practitioners and working with new and expecting parents to prevent unintentional harm to LGBTIQASB+ children that can occur before a parent is aware of their child’s diverse identity. In 2023 his work demonstrated that 24% of the GP workforce in Australia obtained their primary medical qualification in a country that criminalises homosexuality and raises awareness of the need to support all medical practitioners to identify and address knowledge gaps and unconscious bias through the provision of evidence based medical information. He advocates for universal competence across all health practitioner craft groups.
James is a member of Council for AMA Queensland and the views expressed are not necessarily the views of AMA Queensland.
[Source: Australian Association of Psychologists]

Meeting Details
Date: Wednesday 5 Feb 2025
Time: 8pm AEDT / 7pm AEST
Location : Via Zoom, meeting link is here
Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

AFMW 2024 Annual General Meeting [UPDATED]
2025-01-18 10:30 - 11:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Ochre Health Conference room, 6/62 Jardine St, Kingston, ACT, 6/62 Jardine St, Kingston, ACT, Australia
UPDATE – In-person venue changed to Ochre Health Conference room, 6/62 Jardine St, Kingston, ACT.
Dear AFMW Members,
You are warmly invited to the AFMW Annual General Meeting being held Saturday 18th January 2025.
This will be a hybrid meeting – in person at Ochre Health Conference room, 6/62 Jardine St, Kingston, ACT or via Zoom.
Please register here for Zoom, and if intending to attend in person please email secretary@afmw.org.au for catering purposes (light lunch will be provided).
The Agenda is available here, and the Annual Report is now also available.
This is an opportunity to help shape the future of our organisation, hope to see you there!
Dr Brenda Masters
President AFMW

Details

Date: Saturday 18th January, 2025
Time: 10:30am (Melbourne/Canberra/Sydney); 9:30am (Brisbane)
In Person: Ochre Health Conference room, 6/62 Jardine St, Kingston, ACT Suite 1/39 Brisbane Ave, Barton, ACT
Via Zoom: Register Here.

RSVP
Please RSVP if you can attend by emailing secretary@afmw.org.au.
Agenda
Download Agenda | Download the AGM Pack

Annual Report
Download Annual Report

Please note the AGM is open to all AFMW members.

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Spotlight Series - A Chat with Assoc Prof Louise Stone - 4 Dec 2024
2024-12-04 20:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | On-line / Zoom
AFMW is chatting with Associate Professor Louise Stone. The online session will be held 8pm AEDT Wednesday 4 December 2024. AFMW members and non-members are invited to attend this Zoom session.

About Associate Professor Louise Stone
Louise is a general practitioner with clinical, research, education and policy expertise in mental health. She is an Associate Professor in the Social Foundations of Medicine group at the ANU Medical School.
Her current research projects include a longitudinal, collaborative youth mental health project, exploring the journeys of young people around the ACT mental health system, and a translational international collaboration exploring the experience and policy responses to sexual harms between doctors.
Her latest book – Sexual harassment of doctors by doctors: International perspectives, experiences, and responses – is due to be published soon.

Meeting Details
Date: Wed 4 December 2024
Time: 8pm AEDT
Location / Register: Via Zoom, register here (After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.)

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Spotlight on Young AFMW - A Chat with Dr Marissa Daniels - 9 October
2024-10-09 19:00 - 20:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | On-line / Zoom
AFMW is interviewing Dr Marissa Daniels (MBBS, BMedSc) on the 9th October at 7pm. AFMW members and non-members are invited to attend this Zoom session.

About Dr Marissa Daniels (MBBS, BMedSc)

UQ Research Student studying emerging technologies for molecular profiling of lung cancer
Immediate past Co-Chair Young Australian Federation of Medical Women
Past Treasurer Australian Federation of Medical Women
Past Joint Medical Women’s International Association (MWIA) Webmistress

Marissa is currently based in Queensland, Australia. She has extensive experience working in a variety of regional and metropolitan hospitals as a paediatric intensive care medicine trainee. This has fostered in her an interest in achieving health equity by fostering inclusive working environments.
Therefore, in parallel with her clinical training, she has been involved in medical women’s society activities at a local, national and international level. This further cemented her passion for health equity and provided invaluable management and leadership experience.

Meeting Details
Date: Wed 9 October 2024
Time: 7pm
Location / Register: Via Zoom, register here
Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Woman In Leadership Panel Discussion | VMWS
2024-09-14 16:00 - 18:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | Queen Victoria Women’s Centre, 210 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
Join the Victorian Medical Women’s Society (VMWS) Saturday 14 Sept for an insightful and empowering Women in Leadership Panel Discussion at the Queen Victoria Women’s Centre. This event, designed specifically for women in medicine will delve into the pressing question: Why are there so few women in medical leadership?
This educational and informative session will feature a panel of distinguished medical women leaders who will share their experiences, achievements, and insights.

Event Highlights

Panel Discussion: Hear from a panel of esteemed women leaders in medicine as they share their remarkable achievements and perspectives on the current state of medical leadership. Learn about the barriers that exist for women in medicine and discover strategies to cultivate leadership skills.
Interactive Q&A: Engage directly with our speakers during a dynamic Q&A session. This is your opportunity to ask questions and delve deeper into the topics discussed.
Networking: Enjoy drinks and canapés while networking with fellow attendees and speakers. This event provides a unique chance to connect with like-minded individuals in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Intimate Setting: As always, we aim to create a safe space where members and invited speakers feel free to hold an intimate, no-holds-barred discussion. Please note that this event will not be recorded, so be sure to attend and experience the conversation firsthand.

Panel Speakers

👩‍🔬 Dr. Jill Tomlinson: Plastic and reconstructive surgeon, President of AMA Victoria, and leader in VMWS, AFMW, and RACS.
🌟 A/Prof Magdalena Simonis AM: Leading General Practitioner in Australia with roles in RACGP and AFMW; recipient of the Order of Australia (AM).
🏥 Dr. Janice Yeung: Clinical Unit Head of Intensive Care Services at Bendigo Health.
🌾 Dr. Bridget Clancy: Rural Otolaryngologist Head and Neck Surgeon, Chair of the Rural Surgery Section, and Vice Chair of the Rural Health Equity Steering Committee at RACS.
🌱 Dr. Olivia Ong: Rehabilitation Pain Medicine Specialist, medical leadership coach, and mentor.

Event Details

Date: Saturday 14th September 2024
Location: Queen Victoria Women’s Centre (210 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000)
Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Ticketing
Prices

Medical Students (Non-Members): $25
Medical Students (VMWS Members): $15 -> NOW FREE
Doctors (Non-Members): $50
Doctors (VMWS Members): $35 -> NOW FREE
Not a member? Join now: Become a VMWS member now.

Purchase Tickets

FREE tickets for VMWS members are available here
Purchase a ticket HERE to secure your spot!

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Spotlight Series - A Chat with Leah Kaminsky - 11 September
2024-09-11 19:00 - 20:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | On-line / Zoom
Dr Marjorie Cross OAM chats with doctor and award winning author, Leah Kaminsky on the 11th September at 7pm. AFMW members and non-members are invited to attend this Zoom session.

About Leah Kaminsky
Leah Kaminsky’s debut novel The Waiting Room won the Voss Literary Prize and was shortlisted for the Helen Asher Award (Vintage Australia 2015, Harper Perennial US 2016). Her second novel, The Hollow Bones (Vintage) won the 2019 International Book Awards in both Literary Fiction & Historical Fiction categories and the 2019 Best Book Awards for Literary Fiction. Her third novel is Doll’s Eye (Penguin-Random House Australia, 2023). We’re all Going to Die has been described as ‘a joyful book about death’ (Harper Collins, 2016). Animals Make Us Human was a fundraiser for conservation organisations, co-editor Meg Keneally. She edited Writer MD (Knopf US, starred on Booklist 2011) and co-authored Cracking the Code (Vintage 2015). Stitching Things Together was a finalist in the Anne Elder Poetry Award.

She has written for the BBC, the Guardian, Huffington Post, Monocle, Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, Griffith Review, SBS, LitHub, The Rumpus, National Theatre UK, Griffith Review, Forward, Creative Nonfiction, Hunger Mountain, Antipodes, Metazen, The Australian, The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, Chicago Quarterly Review, r,kv.r.y, Hippocrates Poetry Prize anthology, The Ampersand Review, [PANK], Voices, Australian Poetry, Quadrant, The Binnacle, Evening Paper, Victorian Writer, The Examined Life, Mattoid, Cordite Poetry Review, Transnational Literature, amongst others.
She is former Poetry & Fiction Editor of the Medical Journal of Australia. She has been awarded a Cove Park Fellowship (Bridge Awards/EIBF/Varuna) the McCraith Fellowship (RMIT University), the Eleanor Dark Flagship Fellowship for Fiction (Varuna), a Bundanon Fellowship, the Varuna-Griffith Review Fellowship, the Billila Bayside Council Fellowship, Glenfern Fellowship (Writers Victoria) and a Varuna Publisher’s Fellowship.
She holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts (USA) and a BA in Literature from Deakin University.
Find out more

Meeting Details
Date: Wed 11 September 2024
Time: 7pm
Location / Register: Via Zoom, register here
Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

President's Chat with Dr Antonio Di Dio - 21 August
2024-08-21 19:00 - 20:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | On-line / Zoom
AFMW President, Dr Coll is interviewing Dr Antonio Di Dio on the 21st August at 7pm. AFMW members and non-members are invited to attend this Zoom session.

About Dr Antonio Di Dio

Practicing clinician with over 30 years experience, combined with ongoing service through several significant Federal and State medical policy roles providing outcomes to improve the well being of Australians.
Looking to further serve the community in health policy leadership roles, bringing extensive clinical, stewardship and governance experience to continue a lifelong drive to improve Health outcomes for all.
Focus has always been to train and mentor others, actively teaching junior and senior doctors in clinical and professional contexts. Over two decades ongoing 24/7 supply of counselling services for health practitioners in psychological need.
Diverse experience, an ethics driven approach and strong leadership skills. Partner in a busy, successful medical practice, combining clinical work with numerous voluntary roles to provide better outcomes in areas of public policy and to the most vulnerable members of our community. Recently established a free clinic for Indigenous children to address immediate need while on a lengthy public waiting list.
Passionate sense of community, reflected in work with state and federal governments on policy development and advocacy to help mental health, refugee health, and considering those with disability. Community and social work extends to an emphasis on providing public education and focus on preventative health.
Key Achievements:
1) Chairperson, International Health Assessment Panel under Medevac Legislation 2019 assessing claims of refugees from Manus Island and Nauru.
Dr Antonio Di Dio LinkedIn

Meeting Details
Date: Wed 21 August 2024
Time: 7pm
Location / Register: Via Zoom, register here

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

AMA24 Conference | August
2024-08-02 - 2024-08-04 | Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre
The Australian Medical Association ‘AMA24 Conference’ will be hosted at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre from August 2nd to 4th, 2024.

About The Event
AMA24 is a premier medical professional conference designed to gather all doctors across all career stages and specialty groups, to inspire, learn, network, discuss, share, create and ignite motivation.
Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere where you can reconnect with familiar faces, forge new connections, and explore exciting opportunities with our industry partners in the exhibition hall. AMA24 will be an in-person only event.

Details
Event Date: Fri, 02/08/2024 – 09:00 to Sun, 04/08/2024 – 13:30
Time: Friday 2 August – 9.00am to Sunday 4 August – 1.30pm
Location: Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre

Register
Register now
For more information on the conference, please visit the AMA24 website.

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

President's Chat with Dr Linny Kimly Phuong - 31 July
2024-07-31 19:00 - 20:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | On-line / Zoom
AFMW President, Dr Coll is interviewing Dr Linny Kimly Phuong on the 31st July at 7pm. AFMW members and non-members are invited to attend this Zoom session.

About Dr Linny Kimly Phuong

I am a Paediatric Infectious Diseases Physician who currently works at Cabrini, the Royal Children’s Hospital and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. I have experience in managing infections in children of all ages from birth through to adolescence.
I am available for inpatient consults as well as outpatient reviews at Cabrini Malvern at the Mother Baby Centre.
I am an active researcher contributing to the paediatric infectious diseases and vaccination literature. My current research interests include Group A and pneumococcal streptococcal infections, Kawasaki disease and immunisation.
I am currently completing a PhD with the University of Melbourne- Department of Paediatrics on the topic of risk factors in invasive pneumococcal disease.
Read more about Dr Linny Kimly Phuong.

Meeting Details
Date: Wed 31 July 2024
Time: 7pm
Location: Zoom
Register / Join: Register now to attend

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Deep Dive into Dyspareunia: A multidisciplinary 1 day workshop on sexual pain - 20 July 2024
2024-07-20 08:30 - 17:15 (Australia/Melbourne) | On-line / Zoom
The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Monash University is once again running a 1 day live, online course on assessing and managing sexual pain.
In this course we have the opportunity to dive deeper into the breadth and complexities of helping people who are experiencing painful sex.

About
Sexual pain is one of the most commonly experienced sexual difficulties. This interactive 1-day online workshop will gather a multidisciplinary team of experts to discuss, in detail, the assessment and management of dyspareunia. It will include presentations as well as interactive case-based discussions inclusive of diversity of gender, sexual orientation, culture and clinical features.
Format: The morning will include 30 minute presentations from our multidisciplinary faculty of speakers, with Q & A. In the afternoon, we will discuss cases across the lifespan, inclusive of diversity of clinical features, gender, sexual orientation, relationship status & structure, and culture. We will take a biopsychosociocultural approach to each case.
This course is approved for CPD hours for RACGP and RANZCOG, and is endorsed by the Society Australian Sexologists. See website for updates. See Monash University event page for updates.

Details
Date / Time: Saturday 20 July 2024 | 8.30am to 5.15pm (AEST)
Mode: Online, live sessions (presentations and case study discussions)

Register / More Information
Visit the Monash University event for more details

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

MWIA - Western Pacific Regional Conference 2024
2024-07-11 - 2024-07-13 | Waterfront Cebu City Hotel, Cebu City, Philippines
The Medical Women’s International Association (MWIA) and Philippine Medical Women’s Association (PMWA) are hosting the Western Pacific Regional Conference in July this year. The topic of the event is “Empowering Women in Medical Education & Leadership”.

About the Conference
A National Association of women physicians dedicated in developing the members through the examples of its leadership, spearheading ways and means toward the upliftment of service to the profession, members and the community.
Welcome Message from PMWA President
Mabuhay!
Greetings from PMWA, Inc
It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Western Pacific Regional Conference of MWIA in Cebu City, The Queen City of the South.
Along with the MWIA President Eleanor Nwadinobi, The Secretary-General Mariam Jashi and the Vice-President of Western Pacific Region Bong Ok Kim.
The Chair of the scientific committee Dr. Rosa Nancho, and its members have prepared a well-balanced topics and poster presentation award will be given to the Best Paper Presentation.
I look forward to seeing you in Cebu City on July 11-13, 2024 and the meeting will take place in Waterfront Cebu City Hotel.
This is the best time to rekindle old friends and meet new ones. Cebu has many things to offer our visitors. Explore the city during your visit.
To keep up to date on the meeting, please bookmark the conference website

Vivina C. Chiu, MD
President, PMWA
Overall Chair
MWIA – Western Pacific Region Conference

Details
Date: July 11 -13, 2024
Location: Waterfront Cebu City Hotel. Cebu City Philippines

Register / Further Information
Conference Information
Conference Registration

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Inaugural Women in Rural Health Leadership Conference 2024
2024-06-20
The inaugural Women in Rural Health Leadership Conference will be held in Sydney on Thursday 20 June 2024.

About The Event
Designed for women in rural health who have started in, or are looking to progress to, leadership roles, it will feature a series of inspiring and practical presentations from women in leadership
positions in the sector – as well as practical workshops.
Attendees will come away with leadership insights and inspiration. They will enjoy an opportunity to mix with the who’s who of women in rural health and build connections that will help advance
their careers.
Please take a moment to register your interest.

About Rural Health Pro
The Rural Health Pro mission is to connect health professionals and organisations who care about rural communities, to inspire and support them in their work.
Rural Health Pro delivers you curated information to suit your location, profession and interests, wherever you are and whenever you need it.
We work with our partners to add value to your working lives and help you enjoy a rewarding career.
Whether you are a doctor, nurse, midwife, practice manager, Aboriginal Health Worker, allied health professional, paramedic, pharmacist, carer, dentist, student, locum, Outreach worker or health administrator, Rural Health Pro is for you.

Date & Time
Thursday 20 June 2024 (time TBC)

Stay Up To Date / More Information
Register your interest to stay up to date >>

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Circle of Kindness - 19 June 2024
2024-06-19 20:00 - 21:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | On-line / Zoom
AFMW President, Dr Sarah Coll (She/Her) Yirrganydji Country, invites you to attend the next session in our regular series “Circle of Kindness: AFMW Fireside Chats”.
Our next chat will be held Wed 19 June 2024, 8pm-9pm AEST, hosted by Dr Katrina Harris. Please join us if you are a medical woman – non-members welcome!

About The Host

Dr Katrina Harris
Dr Katrina Harris is an Unaccredited Obstetric and Gynaecology registrar based in Melbourne.
She is dedicated to delivering individualised and culturally sensitive patient care. Known for a friendly demeanour and approachability, Dr Katrina is passionate about advocating for colleagues to ensure a supportive and collaborative work environment.
Outside of work, Katrina loves to spend time with her corgi – Peaches!

About Circle of Kindness: AFMW Fireside Chats
We all have moments in life when we need a listening ear and sometimes, it’s easier to share with someone you don’t know that well.
I’ve been asked several times by members and non-members if we provided peer group sessions to support this, and recently invited members to meet and set our parameters. We all agreed that there is a need for a safe space filled with kindness and trust where you can meet other medical women and talk about the challenges you’re facing, so we formed the Circle of Kindness: Fireside Chats.
As President of AFMW it gives me great pleasure to launch these monthly sessions. Times will change so that no one misses out so watch out for our eBulletin and website. Come, bring a friend who is not a member but would benefit from having access to our Circle of Kindness.
This event is open to all AFMW members and non-member guests.
Please share event with friends and colleagues.

What It Is

Peer support for women doctors
Kindness centred
Informal advice – sharing lived experiences
Reflection – making time for this
A safe space
Sessions never recorded
No guest speakers
Confidential
Sessions run for up to 60 minutes – as required
Kindness centred
Trust
Respect – intersectionality
Fun & Relaxed
Camaraderie / friendly
Eat your dinner with us, enjoy a drink, it’s casual!

What It Isn’t

Counselling
Mental health support
AFMW related – we do not discuss AFMW activities nor decide on AFMW issues outside of Council meetings
There is no formal meeting agenda

When & who runs them

Monthly
Interested members take turns hosting a session

Attend
Registration to this Fireside Chat is free. Please join us on the evening via this Zoom link.

More Information
Please forward any queries to

afmw@afmw.org.au

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Victorian Pelvic Pain Symposium | health.vic.gov.au
2024-06-13 08:30 - 17:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), ureka Room, 1 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf VIC 3006
Am pleased to be a panel speaker at the Pelvic Pain Symposium on June 13, sharing GP clinical perspectives. Come join us. It’s free too! – Magdalena Simonis, Women’s health specialist, Endometriosis Action Plan Expert Advisory Group.

About The Symposium
A gathering of the State’s most influential minds to discuss better health outcomes for women regarding pelvic pain, its identification, treatment and ultimate prevention.
Join us at the Victorian Pelvic Pain Symposium – presented in collaboration with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
This groundbreaking event will focus on understanding, treating, and supporting women with pelvic pain.
Explore innovative approaches, exchange insights, and network with experts and advocates in the field. From keynote presentations to interactive talks and panel discussions, this symposium offers a valuable platform to enhance knowledge, foster collaboration, and empower individuals in pelvic pain management.

Symposium Details
When: Thursday 13 June 2024
Time: 8:30 am – 5 pm
Where: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) – Eureka Room, 1 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf VIC 3006

Register
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a dynamic conversation driving positive changes in women’s healthcare.
Book your place via Humantix. Registrations close 5pm Friday 31 May.
Please advise member number when booking.
This is an RACGP approved CPD activity under the RACGP CPD Program (4 hours educational activities, 1.5 hours reviewing performance).

Further Information
Visit Victorian Pelvic Pain Symposium or email vpps@health.vic.gov.au for further enquiries.

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

President's Chat with Prof Caroline DeCosta - 12 June
2024-06-12 19:00 - 20:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | On-line / Zoom
AFMW President, Dr Coll is interviewing Prof Caroline de Costa on the 12th of June at 7pm. AFMW members and non-members are invited to attend this Zoom session.

About Prof Caroline de Costa
Caroline de Costa is Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the College of Medicine at James Cook University, Cairns Campus in North Queensland, Australia. Caroline has 42 years’ experience in the practice of obstetrics and 40 years in the area of obstetrics research, in particular obstetric epidemiology. She practised as a specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist for 35 years.
Caroline was born and educated in Sydney and later studied medicine at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, in Dublin, graduating MB BS (London University) and LRCP&SI in 1973.
After completing residency in Port Moresby General Hospital, Papua-New Guinea, she returned to Ireland and undertook specialist training there and in the United Kingdom. In 1980 Caroline returned to Port Moresby for a further 18 months as Senior Registrar before moving back to Sydney where she spent 17 years in private practice.
In 1999 she moved to Cairns and took up her present appointment in 2004.
Read more about Prof Caroline de Costa on the JCA website.

Meeting Details
Date: Wed 12 June 2024
Time: 7pm
Location / Join: Zoom (Join the Zoom meeting on the evening)

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Sharing and Strengthening Our Practice | Northern Territory Government Department of Territory Families, Housing and Communities
2024-06-05 - 2024-06-06 | Alice Springs Conference Centre
The Northern Territory Government Department of Territory Families, Housing and Communities invites you to the domestic, family and sexual violence conference, “Sharing and strengthening our practice,” in Mparntwe (Alice Springs) from 5 to 6 June, 2024.
The 2-day event will provide a culturally safe and collaborative environment to encourage discussion and strengthen connections between domestic, family and sexual violence prevention and response sector workers, supervisors, managers, and executives from across the Northern Territory.
The program offers networking opportunities for the sharing of information, ideas and concerns, as well as learning from experienced sector representatives about the latest issues, trends and responses in the domestic, family and sexual violence services sector.

Details
Event Date: 5 – 6 June 2024
Location: Alice Springs Conference Centre, NT

Registration Notification
SAVE THE DATE and sign up to be notified when registrations open mid April.

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

President's Chat with Cristina Santangelo - 22 May [POSTPONED]
2024-05-22 19:00 - 20:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | On-line / Zoom
POSTPONED – Unfortunately the President’s Chat with Cristina Santangelo scheduled for 22 May has been cancelled.

AFMW President, Dr Coll is interviewing Christina Santangelo on the 22 May at 7pm. AFMW members and non-members are invited to attend this Zoom session.

About Cristina Santangelo
Ciao! I am Cristina born and grown up in Rome but living in Sydney since 2003. I am here to help you to find your own authentic sense of style and create a simple and effective wardrobe, because once you feel good in the clothes and colours you are wearing anything can happen.
This is your passport for self-confidence and happiness. What if I told you that your size doesn’t matter, fashion trends do not matter, beauty stereotypes do not matter?
We should all stop being obsessed with the beauty stereotypes that the media dictate. Beauty is not just about fashion and extreme diets. What is important is our desire to look and feel great for ourselves and to portray an image that reflects who we really are.
What is important in a dress is the women who is wearing it – Yves Saint Laurent.
I am very honoured to be Italian and proud of the Italian style, beauty and culture. In my adopted home Australia is where I can freely go to the mall with no make-up on and wearing tongs without feeling an alien!
I have obtained my certification in advanced colour analysis in Italy with Alessandra Boaro and my certification as an Image Consultant through Image Innovators.
Regardless of you gender, size or shape, please accept yourself, love yourself and always be the best version of yourself.
Read more about Cristina Santangelo.

Meeting Details
Date: Wed 22 May 2024
Time: 7pm
Location: Zoom
Register: Register now to attend

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

President's Chat with Prof Manjula O'Connor - 24 April
2024-04-24 20:00 - 21:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | On-line / Zoom
AFMW President, Dr Coll is interviewing Prof Manjula O’Connor on the 24th of April at 8pm. AFMW members and non-members are invited to attend this Zoom session.

About Prof Manjula O’Connor

Professor Manjula Datta O’Connor is an Indian-born award winning psychiatrist, author, researcher, reviewer, teacher and campaigner, community leader, changemaker, advocate with special interest in migrant women’s mental health, complex trauma and family violence.

She is Hon Clinical Associate Professor at the Department of Psychiatry University of Melbourne. Adjunct Professor at University of New South Wales. She is an ambassador for Full Stop Australia.

​Her new book, Daughters of Durga, draws on her research and clinical experience. It introduces readers to the complexities of family violence as experienced by South Asian migrant women in Australia, with a primary focus on Indian women.

Meeting Details
Date: Wed 24 April 2024
Time: 8pm
Location: Zoom
Register: Register to attend the Zoom meeting

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Circle of Kindness - 17 April 2024
2024-04-17 19:00 - 21:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | On-line / Zoom
AFMW President, Dr Sarah Coll (She/Her) Yirrganydji Country, invites you to attend the next session in our regular series “Circle of Kindness: AFMW Fireside Chats”.
Our next chat will be held Wed 17 April 2024, 7pm-8pm AEST, hosted by Dr Sarah Coll. Please join us if you are a medical woman – non-members welcome!

About The Host

Dr Sarah Coll
Sarah is an orthopaedic surgeon based in Far North Queensland, Cairns. She has been in private practice for over 18 years and manages all types of upper limb surgery. She also performs ankle and knee arthroscopies and reconstructions.
She advocates for doctors on the AMAQ, AMA and RACS and particularly for women in medicine. She has two magnificent children who keep her occupied and a patient, supportive husband.
LinkedIn

About Circle of Kindness: AFMW Fireside Chats
We all have moments in life when we need a listening ear and sometimes, it’s easier to share with someone you don’t know that well.
I’ve been asked several times by members and non-members if we provided peer group sessions to support this, and recently invited members to meet and set our parameters. We all agreed that there is a need for a safe space filled with kindness and trust where you can meet other medical women and talk about the challenges you’re facing, so we formed the Circle of Kindness: Fireside Chats.
As President of AFMW it gives me great pleasure to launch these monthly sessions. Times will change so that no one misses out so watch out for our eBulletin and website. Come, bring a friend who is not a member but would benefit from having access to our Circle of Kindness.
This event is open to all AFMW members and non-member guests.
Please share event with friends and colleagues.

What It Is

Peer support for women doctors
Kindness centred
Informal advice – sharing lived experiences
Reflection – making time for this
A safe space
Sessions never recorded
No guest speakers
Confidential
Sessions run for up to 60 minutes – as required
Kindness centred
Trust
Respect – intersectionality
Fun & Relaxed
Camaraderie / friendly
Eat your dinner with us, enjoy a drink, it’s casual!

What It Isn’t

Counselling
Mental health support
AFMW related – we do not discuss AFMW activities nor decide on AFMW issues outside of Council meetings
There is no formal meeting agenda

When & who runs them

Monthly
Interested members take turns hosting a session

Attend
Registration to this Fireside Chat is free. Please join us on the evening via this Zoom link.

More Information
Please forward any queries to

afmw@afmw.org.au

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Sexual Safety in Medicine Series: Global perspectives
2024-03-23 09:00 - 17:00 (Australia/Sydney)
Hosted by Dr Louise Stone, the lead editor of an international text book on sexual harassment in medicine, you are invited to attend the next Sexual Harassment in Medicine seminar to be held Saturday 23 March 2024. Register today.

About The Event
Following the highly successful International Summit on Sexual Harassment in Medicine in October 2023, the organisers are running a series of online events in 2024. These events will be hosted by Louise Stone, who is the lead editor of an international text book on sexual harassment in medicine. Speakers will include:

International experts on sexual safety in medicine from Asia, Europe, Africa and the Americas,
Experts from law, legislation, trauma-informed care, therapy, medical education and policy and experts in equity and governance.
Experts on policy and policy writing assist small groups to refine the sexual safety standards drafted at the Summit
Experts on trauma-informed care, rehabilitation and return to work strategies

The purpose of the series is:

To share the legislation that underpins our responses to sexual harassment in the medical workplace
To share strategies developed in other international jurisdictions
To update participants on the latest international research on the prevention, management and rehabilitation of doctors who have been harmed by sexual trauma in the workplace
To explore inequalities and vulnerabilities in the workplace
To further develop the draft sexual safety standards crafted in the Summit

Date & Time
Sat 23rd Mar 2024, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm AEDT

Register / More Information
For more information and to register, visit the event web page. >>

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

National Close the Gap Day 21st March 2024
2024-03-21
On the third Thursday in March every year, Australians can show their support and send our governments a clear message that we value health equality as a fundamental right for all. The aim is to bring people together to share information, and most importantly, to take meaningful action to support health equality for First Nations people. The themes of this year’s report are Progressing Voice, Treaty, Truth, Leadership and Governance and Building our Economies.
There is a distinction between Close the Gap and the Closing the Gap.

About Close The Gap
Closing the Gap is about the Commonwealth Governments Targets in improving health and social outcomes for First Nations people
Currently the data does show some progress.
On March 6th , The Productivity Commission released new data on 8 of the Closing the Gap targets and nine supporting indicators.
Overall, 5 out of 19 targets are now on track, an improvement from 4 out of 19.
Encouragingly, the proportion of First Nations babies born at a healthy weight has improved and is on track to meet the target of 91 per cent by 2031.
The target of a 15 percent increase in land and sea country covered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples legal rights is also on track.
But there has been no improvement in closing the gap on life expectancy, with Indigenous Australian males and females expected to live 8.8 and 8.1 years respectively, less than other Australians.
The target to reduce the number of children in out of home care is not on track, while the target to reduce adult imprisonment is not on track and worsening.
The Government is committed to strengthening efforts to work in partnership with First Nations people to make progress on Closing the Gap and improve life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.
The Productivity Commission is scheduled to release a further update to the Closing the Gap dashboard and the fourth Annual Data Compilation Report in July 2024.

Productivity Commission March 2024 dashboard update
Targets on track

Target 2 – By 2031 increase the proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander babies with a healthy birthweight.
Target 15 A – By 2030, a 15 per cent increase in land mass subject to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s legal rights or interests.
Target 15B – By 2030, a 15 per cent increase in sea covered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s legal rights or interests.

Targets not on track

Target 1 – By 2031, close the Gap in life expectancy within a generation
Target 10 – By 2031, reduce the rate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults held in incarceration by at least 15 per cent
Target 12 – By 2031, reduce the rate of overrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out-of-home care by 45 per cent
Target 14 – Significant and sustained reduction in suicide of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people towards zero.

Targets with no change

Target 11 – By 2031, reduce the rate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people (10‑17 years) in detention by at least 30 per cent, shows no change from the baseline (2017).

How to get involved in National Close the Gap Day

Register your activity. You can download some online resources to support your event
Invite your friends, workmates and family to join you
Take action by signing the Close the Gap pledge and asking your friends and colleagues to do the same
Call, tweet or write to your local Member of Parliament and tell them that you want them to Close the Gap
Listen to and share the stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people on Facebook – visit our Close the Gap Facebook page.(link is external)
Share your photos and stories on social media. Use the hashtag #ClosetheGap
Donate to help our work on Close the Gap

FURTHER INFORMATION
Visit Close The Gap event website

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Launch of the Wiyi Yani U Thangani Institute and Change Agenda for First Nations Gender Justice - Livestream
2024-03-19 18:15 - 20:30 (Australia/Sydney)
Hosted by the Australian Human Rights Commission, you are invited to celebrate the official launch of the Wiyi Yani U Thangani Institute, and the Wiyi Yani U Thangani Change Agenda for First Nations Gender Justice! The Livestream event (via Zoom) will be held Tue 19th Mar 2024, 5:15 pm – 7:30 pm AEST.

About The Event
This historic event will be accessible via livestream from 6:15pm (AEDT) on Tuesday 19 March 2024. This is a FREE online event with up to 1000 participants expected to attend.
Auslan interpretation and live captioning will be available. If you have any additional accessibility requirements, please contact the organisers.

About the Institute
The Wiyi Yani U Thangani Institute will find its home at the Australian National University on Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country (Canberra), with a commitment to national and global reach and impact. The Institute will work alongside First Nations women, girls, gender-diverse mob, researchers, practitioners, and non-Indigenous collaborators to reform systems and structures, and achieve sustained meaningful change for communities, everywhere. As articulated by First Nations delegates at the 2023 Summit:
“The Institute will be our place, where we will create the research agenda, design the models to support thriving societies for our women and families on the ground, and put forward our stories and lived experiences as evidence-based and innovative policy.”

More about Punkaliyarra
Punkaliyarra is a long term intergenerational cultural transmission project which has been developed in partnership with senior and young women from Ieramugadu (Roebourne), including emerging Yindjibarndi Elder Michelle Adams. In the project, young women join senior women Elders, artists and mentors to delve into the deep knowledge and strength of Pilbara women, documenting stories in stunning visuals, sound, movement and spoken word. Punkaliyara is a meditation on women’s experiences, celebrating ancient and contemporary stories of their power, where nurture, care and guidance are formed in the collective.

DETAILS
Date: Tue 19th Mar 2024
Time: 5:15 pm – 7:30 pm AEST
Location: Zoom
Tickets: $FREE, please register here.

REGISTER
Free registration to attend.

FURTHER INFORMATION
Please email mwsact@gmail.com
Dr Marjorie Cross OAM

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

"Let's Talk About Sex: Sexuality and Sexual Difficulties" - An introductory course in Sexual Medicine and Therapy - Monash University
2024-03-15 08:30 - 17:30 (Australia/Melbourne) | On-line / Zoom
Monash University is again running a 2 day introductory course in Sexual Medicine and Therapy.
About the 2 Day Course
This 2-day online multidisciplinary course on Sexuality and Sexual Difficulties, is relevant for all health practitioners, trainees and students. It will discuss the need to talk about sex, address the obstacles, and will empower the registrants to raise and discuss topics of sexuality and sexual difficulties with their patients. It will cover the assessment and management of common sexual difficulties, from a bio-psycho-socio-cultural perspective, provide educational resources and an overview of therapeutic options.

This course was originally held face to face and sold out in 2019 and 2020. In 2021, 2022 and 2023, it was very successfully held online and provided an opportunity for participants across Australia and Internationally to join the course.
In 2024, the course will once again be held fully online, and recordings of all presentations will be available to registrants for 3 months, including registrants who are unable to attend one or both days, live.

Early bird registration will end on 26/2/24.

Date & Time (AEDT)
Friday 15 March 2024 – 8.30am – 5.00pm and Saturday 23 March 2024 – 8.30am – 5.30pm

Program Outline
This online course will cover the assessment and management of common sexual difficulties, from a biopsychosociocultural perspective, provide educational resources and an overview of therapeutic options.

Talking about sex – overcoming the obstacles
Taking a Sexual History in an inclusive and respectful way, with a biopsychosociocultural approach
Communication skills, including talking with a couple
Models of Sexuality
Relationships and sexuality
Gender identity and gender dysphoria
Sexual identity, orientation and behaviour (including LGBTIQA+ sexuality)
Cultural & Religious impacts on sexuality (including the impact of Pornography)
Trauma and Sexuality
Sexual pain
Erectile Dysfunction
Ejaculatory problems (Premature Ejaculation & Delayed Ejaculation)
Libido
Arousal and Orgasm
The impact of significant life stages/changes on sexuality
Pregnancy & Postpartum sexuality
Menopause, Aging, Illness & Cancer

More Information
Please visit “Let’s Talk About Sex: Sexuality and Sexual Difficulties” for the registration link.
Download Flyer (pdf)

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Empowering Diversity, Enabling Excellence: A Celebration of Women's Impact in Medicine | AMA Vic
2024-03-12 18:00 - 22:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | Studley Grounds
An International Women’s Day 2024 event – Join AMA Victoria for an unforgettable evening!
AMA Victoria and the Women in Medicine Committee invite all members to a special event for International Women’s Day 2024. Our event spotlights the incredible contributions of women in medicine, emphasising the need to embrace diversity and invest in the advancement of all women, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by international medical graduates (IMGs) in the Australian healthcare system, all whilst enjoying a 3-course dinner at Studley Grounds, Kew.

Evening highlights include:

Insights from experts

Dr Nisha Khot – Clinical Director of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Peninsula Health and Vice President of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists: Delve into the challenges faced by IMGs as Dr Nisha Khot shares her invaluable expertise in not just navigating but being a leader in the Australian medical system.
Dr Mrin Nayagam – Clinician/GP and a former Practice Principal/Owner of an award winning practice in Victoria, Former Board Member RACGP/Victoria Faculty, currently practicing as a GP/Subcontractor (part time), Triple award winner for excellence in teaching – Monash Department of General Practice 2014, 2015, 2017, Inaugural Chair of Women in General Practice in Victoria, mentor for junior GP auspiced through the AMA and Author of “Silver Linings – True Stories of Resilience from a General Practice”: Gain fresh perspectives on women’s impact in medicine from the accomplished Dr Mrin Nayagam, uncovering pathways to success.

Q&A session

Engage in a dynamic Q&A session featuring AMAV President Dr Jill Tomlinson and our distinguished speakers moderated by our Women in Medicine Committee. Your questions, their insights – let’s create an interactive dialogue that accelerates progress in medicine.

Networking and collaboration

Connect with peers, professionals, and industry experts. This event is your opportunity to forge meaningful connections within the medical community and collaborate on the future of medicine.

DETAILS
Save the date: Tuesday 12 March, 2024
Venue: Studley Grounds, 121 Studley Park Rd, Kew (off Walmer Street)
Time: Arrive anytime from 6:00 PM for a 7:00 PM start
Dress code: Smart Casual
Registrations close: Tuesday 5 March, 2024

FURTHER INFORMATION
Visit the AMA Vic event page.

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

MWS ACT & Region Annual Cocktail Party in the National Capital - 7 Mar 2024
2024-03-07 18:00 - 22:00 (Australia/Sydney) | 66 Munro St, Curtin, 66 Munro St, Curtin, ACT
To celebrate Medical Women on International Women’s Day, all Medical Women are welcome to join us at the MWS ACT & Region annual Cocktail Party, 7 March 2024. It’s a great opportunity to network and celebrate who we are.

DETAILS
Date: Thursday 7th March 2024
Time: 6.00pm
Location: 66 Munro St, Curtin, ACT
Tickets: $15 for doctors, $5 for students

RSVP
Please RSVP to mwsact@gmail.com and pay on the night ($15)
We would be delighted to have some interstate visitors join us should any of you be in Canberra!

FURTHER INFORMATION
Please email mwsact@gmail.com

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Circle of Kindness - What will you be doing for International Women's Day? [UPDATED]
2024-03-06 20:00 - 21:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | On-line / Zoom
AFMW President, Dr Sarah Coll (She/Her) Yirrganydji Country, invites you to attend the next session in our regular series “Circle of Kindness: AFMW Fireside Chats”.
Our next chat “What will you be doing for International Womens Day?” will be held Wed 6 March 2024, 8pm-9pm AEDT (Melb/Syd/ACT) / 7pm-8pm AEDT (Qld), hosted by Dr Ruby Curtis. Please join us if you are a medical woman – non-members welcome!

About The Host

Dr Ruby Curtis
GP for 28 years.

About Circle of Kindness: AFMW Fireside Chats
We all have moments in life when we need a listening ear and sometimes, it’s easier to share with someone you don’t know that well.
I’ve been asked several times by members and non-members if we provided peer group sessions to support this, and recently invited members to meet and set our parameters. We all agreed that there is a need for a safe space filled with kindness and trust where you can meet other medical women and talk about the challenges you’re facing, so we formed the Circle of Kindness: Fireside Chats.
As President of AFMW it gives me great pleasure to launch these monthly sessions. Times will change so that no one misses out so watch out for our eBulletin and website. Come, bring a friend who is not a member but would benefit from having access to our Circle of Kindness.
This event is open to all AFMW members and non-member guests.
Please share event with friends and colleagues.

What It Is

Peer support for women doctors
Kindness centred
Informal advice – sharing lived experiences
Reflection – making time for this
A safe space
Sessions never recorded
No guest speakers
Confidential
Sessions run for up to 60 minutes – as required
Kindness centred
Trust
Respect – intersectionality
Fun & Relaxed
Camaraderie / friendly
Eat your dinner with us, enjoy a drink, it’s casual!

What It Isn’t

Counselling
Mental health support
AFMW related – we do not discuss AFMW activities nor decide on AFMW issues outside of Council meetings
There is no formal meeting agenda

When & who runs them

Monthly
Interested members take turns hosting a session

Attend
Registration to this Fireside Chat is free. Please join us on the evening via this Zoom link.

More Information
Please forward any queries to

afmw@afmw.org.au

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.

Making it happen: Work flexibility in healthcare | RANZCP
2024-03-06 17:30 - 19:30 (Australia/Melbourne)
In collaboration with Royal Australasian College of Physicians and the Australasian College of Dermatologists, the RANZCP is holding an online event “Making it happen: Work flexibility in healthcare” 6 March 2024.

About The Event
Accessing flexible work models in healthcare settings is still a challenge and isn’t the norm.
This webinar will convene a panel of doctors from different specialisations (psychiatry, physicians, and dermatology) who will share their stories and innovative case studies about how to effectively implement flexible workplace practices in a variety of healthcare settings and teams, and how to sustainably continue a career in medicine after career breaks or life changes.
Our panel will be joined by special guest Professor Helena Teede from Advancing Women in Healthcare Leadership to provide her expert insights into flexible work practices in healthcare settings, where change is happening or needs to happen, and what the research tells us about workplaces that embrace flexible working models for staff teams and clinicians.
This special webinar event will take place in the lead up to International Women’s Day 2024 (8 March) – and its theme of Count Her In – that examines pathways to greater economic inclusion for women and girls everywhere.
We are proud to deliver this webinar in collaboration with the Royal Australasian College of Physicians and the Australasian College of Dermatologists.

Details
Date: 6 March 2024 17:30 AEDT | 16:30 AEST | 17:00 ACDT | 16:00 ACST |14:30 AWST | 19:30 NZDT
Location: Online

Register / Further Information
For further information visit the RANZCP event page
Register here.

Dr Madhura Naidu, AFMW Vice PresidentDr Madhura Naidu is an Intensive Care Registrar and trainee with the College of Intensive Care Medicine with over a decade of multidisciplinary clinical experience spanning ICU, anaesthesia, surgery and palliative care. She brings a comprehensive clinical skillset and a systems-based perspective to critical care, grounded in evidence-based, compassionate and patient-centred practice.
She is particularly passionate about the strategic integration of AI and digital health in medicine as tools to streamline workflows, empower clinicians, and improve patient outcomes in real-world settings.
Beyond the bedside, Madhura is an intersectional feminist and long-time advocate for gender equity and clinician wellbeing. She currently serves as Vice-President of the Australian Federation of Medical Women (AFMW) — the only national organisation exclusively representing the women and non-binary medical workforce — following a three-year tenure as President of the Victorian Medical Women’s Society.
A lifelong learner, Madhura is driven by adaptability, innovation, and building efficient, future-focused solutions across clinical, organisational and digital health settings.
