Former Head of Department, Richard Dowell, receives Order of Australia

Congratulations to Emeritus Professor Richard Dowell, former Head of our Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, who has been appointed as an Officer of the Order of Australia.

Richard Dowell started at the University of Melbourne in 1980 and subsequently enjoyed an illustrious career as an educator, researcher and administrator. He was appointed the inaugural Professor of Audiology and Speech Sciences in 2001 and held the Graeme Clark Chair in Audiology and Speech Science. Furthermore, he served as Head, Department of Otolaryngology (2004-11) and Head, Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology (2012-18). In 2021 he was awarded Emeritus Professor of the University of Melbourne.

Richard's contributions to audiology and cochlear implant development have fundamentally shaped clinical practice and professional standards across Australia and internationally. As founder of the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital's Cochlear Implant Clinic in 1985, he played a crucial role in translating emerging research into accessible clinical care. His involvement in securing FDA approval for cochlear implants in both adults (1985) and children (1990) represents a watershed moment in audiology, opening pathways for thousands of individuals with severe-to-profound hearing loss. Richard's signal processing research directly improved device performance, demonstrating the connection between rigorous scientific inquiry and patient outcomes.

Equally significant is Richard's impact on audiology education in Australia. His initiation of the transition from a one-year Graduate Diploma to a two-year Masters degree in audiology (1998) elevated professional training standards across the nation. His subsequent development of professional training in speech pathology at the University of Melbourne (2011) further demonstrates his commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration. Through decades of mentorship, research leadership and active engagement with professional bodies including Audiology Australia, Richard has cultivated a culture of excellence within the audiology community. His engaging lectures and compelling storytelling ability inspired generations of students and colleagues, whilst his work continues to influence training, practice standards, and advocacy for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Congratulations Richard.