Australian of the Year

Ishaan Chaudhuri graduated high school soon after turning 16 and is now two years into his journey to becoming a doctor. Outside of his study, he gives back to the South Australian community in every way he can. 

Concerned about equitable healthcare access, Ishaan independently designed and conducted a large-scale survey of more than 250 First Nations participants and key stakeholders. His work spotlighted the systemic challenges remote communities face in accessing healthcare and provided a platform for voices that are often overlooked. 

Ishaan also established a tutoring initiative that has delivered more than $5,000 worth of free lessons in mathematics, science and English to students experiencing financial hardship.  

He serves on the executive for the Australian Medical Students' Association, ClimateShield, and the Central Youth Advocacy Network. Ishaan also chairs Doctors for the Environment Australia in South Australia and holds leadership positions in the Indian Bengali Cultural Association of Adelaide. 

In stepping up to lead and serve, Ishaan isn’t waiting until tomorrow to address the problems our community faces today.