Ms Eden Siemsen is a Gubbi Gubbi woman and qualified Paramedic, who grew up in Toowoomba (Giabal and Jarowair country) who is now studying for a Doctor of Medicine at University of Queensland.
Her interest in medicine is rooted in community. She has always been passionate about improving health outcomes for mob, especially in rural and remote areas.
Eden has experience in the health sector, that is well beyond her level of medical education.
She has worked at the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH), where she was involved in Palliative and End-of-Life Care projects and developed resources for clinicians. She has also contributed to NAIDOC community education events and helped develop training on culturally responsive care.
She has served/and still serves as a student ambassador, supporting peers and promoting pathways into healthcare for indigenous youth.
She would like to become a GP working with Aboriginal Medical Services, where she can support patients with culturally safe care and advocate for systemic change.
Eden applied for the Bursary to enable her to attend the 2025 AIDA Conference in Sydney in November 2025, to deepen her learning and leadership in Indigenous health. She is a keen volunteer and administrator. With Dr Loyola Wills, and Ms Ellen MacDonald , Eden had a key role in arranging a gathering of the Alumnae of the Purple Bush Medicine Leaves Bursary Recipients at the AIDA Conference in Sydney.
2025 Purple Bush Medicine Leaves Recipients at the AIDA Conference in Sydney, November 2025
Eden remains actively involved in community outreach, mentoring, and health promotion. As a Paramedic, she is a member of Indigenous Allied Health Association of Australia (IAHA), and as a medical student she is a member of the Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA), and the Queensland Medical Women’s Society (and AFMW); she is grateful for the strength and inspiration she finds in these communities.
She has received scholarships to attend the AMSA Rural Health Summit in Perth (2025) and the IAHA Conference in Darwin (2019) —”two amazing opportunities that helped shape my voice and confidence as a future Indigenous Doctor.”
She notes that the bursary “would make a big difference—it would ease financial stress and help me take up opportunities to learn, connect and grow alongside other First Nations medical leaders.”
“.. I want to grow as a future leader in Indigenous health. Being able to attend a major conference would help me build connections, gain insights, and continue walking this path with strength and support from those who’ve gone before me.
As someone who didn’t grow up knowing many doctors, especially those that advocate for indigenous patients, these spaces are really important.
I’m passionate about Indigenous health, Palliative Care, rural medicine, and creating space for our voices in medical education.”
Congratulations Eden!
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