Congratulations to Emeritus Professor Ken Kirkby

The Tasmania Branch is pleased to award Emeritus Professor Ken Kirkby the 2026 Tasmania Branch Meritorious Service Award.

Professor Kirkby has made an outstanding contribution to psychiatry in Tasmania and Australia over more than three decades. A former President of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists from 2007 to 2009, he has provided distinguished leadership and service at Branch, national and bi-national levels, helping to shape the profession and advance psychiatric practice. 

In Tasmania, Professor Kirkby played a pivotal role in psychiatric education and workforce development through his roles as Head of the Discipline of Psychiatry at the University of Tasmania, Director of Psychiatry Training, Training Chair and long-serving Branch leader. He has been a highly regarded educator and mentor, influencing the professional development of generations of psychiatrists and strengthening Tasmania's psychiatric workforce. 

His distinguished career has also encompassed significant contributions to clinical care, research and academic psychiatry. He maintained a strong academic presence for psychiatry in Tasmania, supervised trainees and early-career academics, secured competitive research funding, and authored more than 200 peer-reviewed publications. His pioneering work in computer-based therapy further contributed to innovation in mental health care. 

The Tasmania Branch is delighted to recognise Professor Kirkby's exceptional service, leadership and enduring contribution to the profession.