Professor Lindy McAllister, a visionary in the field of speech pathology, has been recognised with the
prestigious Member (AM) of the Order of Australia in the 2023 King’s Birthday Honours List.
Professor McAllister is a previous National President of Speech Pathology Australia and Life Member of the
Association.
This distinguished honour was bestowed in acknowledgment of her tireless efforts to advance the speech
pathology profession, champion social justice and equity for individuals with communication and swallowing
needs, and as mentor who has empowered generations of professionals.
One of the key highlights of Professor McAllister's remarkable career has been her commitment to
supporting access to speech therapy services for those in developing countries, particularly in Vietnam
where, as a founding Director of Trinh Foundation Australia, she has worked to create sustainable speech
therapy degrees and services in Vietnam. Her profound impact within rural and remote areas of Australia has
also been widely recognised and her work with the Association helped to communicate a positive vision for
the future of the Association to create the dynamic, professional and forward-thinking organisation it is
today.
Commenting on the honour, Professor McAllister expressed her gratitude, saying, "Receiving the Order of
Australia medal is an immense privilege and a humbling recognition of the importance of the work we do as
speech pathologists. I am grateful for the opportunity to have contributed to the advancement of the
profession and to have made a positive impact on the lives of individuals with communication and swallowing
difficulties, in Australia and in Vietnam."
In congratulating Professor McAllister Speech Pathology Australia National President Kathryn McKinley said,
“Throughout her illustrious career, Professor McAllister has exhibited unwavering dedication and
commitment to the betterment of speech pathology in Australia and around the globe.
“Her dedication to mentoring countless speech pathology students, professionals, academics, and leaders
has been invaluable. Her leadership and guidance have shaped the careers of many, instilling a passion for
excellence, innovation, and inclusivity within the next generation of professionals. We are delighted that she
has received this important recognition and on behalf of our members I’d like to wholeheartedly congratulate
Lindy.”
The Order of Australia is the pre-eminent means by which Australians are recognised as outstanding
citizens. Professor McAllister's exceptional service and commitment to the speech pathology profession
make her an exemplar of the honour's ideals.
For media inquiries, please contact Speech Pathology Australia Communications and Marketing Manager,
Rebecca Faltyn, [email protected]
Date - 9 June 2023
Media contact: Communications and Marketing Manager, Rebecca Faltyn, [email protected]
Speech Pathology Australia is the national peak body representing more than 14,000 speech pathologists. The Association supports and regulates the ethical, clinical and professional standards of its members, as well as lobbying and advocating for access to services that benefit people with communication and swallowing difficulties.