The National Rural Health Alliance (NRHA) is proud to acknowledge Associate Professor David Anthony Rimmer, a valued member of the NRHA Council, along with Dr Peter Robert Rischbieth, Associate Professor Emma Margaret Kennedy, and Dr Margaret Mary Niemann who were honoured in the 2025 King's Birthday Honours for their outstanding contributions to rural health practice and training.
"We extend our heartfelt congratulations to these professionals and others whose contributions have been well and truly above the call of duty and who are vital to the health and wellbeing of our rural communities," said NRHA Chief Executive Susi Tegen. "These award recipients have each made significant and lasting impacts in their fields. Their recognition is a testament to the critical role rural health professionals play in improving the access and wellbeing of rural communities," she said.
Associate Professor David Rimmer, a longstanding rural health advocate from Queensland, was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division for his service to rural and remote medicine. Closely associated with the NRHA as a Council member since 2023, he continues to support the NRHA's policy and advocacy for equitable healthcare access. He has dedicated decades to improving health outcomes and mentoring future generations of rural doctors. His leadership within the NRHA and broader medical community continues to shape national rural health policy and practice. His humour and genuine demeanour are welcome additions to the NRHA.
Dr Peter Rischbieth, appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division, was recognised for his service to rural health as a medical practitioner. A respected general practitioner based in South Australia, Dr Rischbieth is a strong and strategic voice for rural general practice, the medical workforce as a whole and rural patient advocacy. He was the President of the Rural Doctors Association of Australia from 2006 – 2008 and a recipient of Rural Doctor of the Year Award in 2022.
Associate Professor Emma Kennedy AM, based in Darwin NT, was also appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division for her significant service to medical education, and to the community. Her commitment to training the next generation of rural health professionals has had a far-reaching impact, and her leadership and significant contributions in NT healthcare sector are nothing short of inspiring.
Dr Margaret Mary Niemann from Bairnsdale VIC was honoured with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division for her service to medicine as a general practitioner. A dedicated rural practitioner, Dr Niemann has shown a lifelong commitment to improving health outcomes in her community, with a particular passion for Indigenous health. She is the recipient of the Annette Walker Award in 2016, which recognises outstanding contributions by a Remote Area Health Corps health professional.
"The national recognition of these awardees shines a light on the importance of supporting and investing in rural health practice, leadership and education. Indeed, we must continue to raise the profile of rural clinicians and their contributions in an often underfunded and over-challenged environment. They also serve as a powerful reminder of the dedication and impact of those working to improve health outcomes outside of cities, looking out for the 30 per cent of the population (or 7.3 million people) living and working in rural and remote communities," said Ms Tegen.
About us:
The National Rural Health Alliance (the Alliance) comprises 54 national organisations committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the over 7 million people in rural and remote Australia. Our diverse membership includes representation from health professional organisations, health service providers, health educators, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector and students.
