Community

Dr Rebecca Bennett (she/her) serves as Murdoch University's Pro Vice Chancellor Equity Diversity and Inclusion, and Associate Dean Research within the School of Indigenous Knowledges. As PVC EDI, she guides Murdoch’s EDI strategic pillar outlined in the University's 2023-2030 strategic plan. Dr Bennett advises the Vice Chancellor and other Senior Leaders on EDI matters and oversees the development and implementation of the University's EDI sub-strategy and action plans.

Dr. Anna Pryor (she/her) is a Strategic Projects Coordinator for Gender Equity and responsible for the Athena Swan gender equity, diversity and inclusion accreditation program at Murdoch. Her strong scientific background sees her apply an analytical lens to her work, uncovering barriers to participation and inclusion and to better understand progress and impact of EDI initiatives. She has a personal and professional commitment to gender equity, shaped by her experiences as a woman in STEM and her outreach work with young women pursuing careers in science and technology.

Beck Pinker (she/her) is one of the Strategic Project Coordinators responsible for the Gender Equity portfolio. She works to embed inclusive systems, practices, and services that support equitable access for staff and students. With a background in community health, Beck has held a range of roles across the University, always focused on wellbeing and equity. She’s passionate about creating meaningful, long-term change through strategic work that makes a real difference in people’s everyday experiences.

Mx Em Readman (They/Them) is the Strategic Projects Coordinator responsible for the LGBTIQA+ portfolio on the EDI team. They are also the LGBTIQA+ Advisory Group Chair, and teach the LGBTIQA+ Allyship training to staff and students on campus. Em is currently pursuing a Masters by Research at Murdoch University, exploring LGBTIQA+ experiences of lived-experience storytelling.

Ms Kiri Manuera (she/her) is the Strategic Projects Coordinator responsible for coordinating the development of the University’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and implementing projects and events that support reconciliation on campus. Kiri is from Aotearoa, is of Pākeha and Māori descent, and has worked in the Higher Education sector for nearly 30 years. She enjoys learning about the about the rich culture, knowledge and history of Noongar peoples, and their connection to nature and boodjar.

Oakley (the/them) coordinates the strategic alignment portfolio, working towards the University-wide adoption and alignment of the EDI sub-strategy. Within the EDI team, they provide support for initiatives across each community group, along with working with individual schools and areas to develop their own plans and initiatives. They also co-facilitate the Ally training program for staff and students, and closely support our team of EDI Student Partners.

Aaron Green (he/him) (BA Hons) is the Strategic Projects Coordinator for the Disability, Neurodiversity, and Chronic Illness (CaNDiD) portfolio. After surviving a haemorrhagic stroke nine years ago, he relearned to walk and run, and completed an honours thesis on stroke communication for survivors aged 18–54 in WA. Aaron begins his PhD this year, exploring why barriers to access and inclusion continue to exist in social, business, government, and education spaces despite decades of research and investment in inclusive practices.

Najma (she/her) is a Strategic Projects Coordinator for the Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (CALD) portfolio. Deeply community-oriented, she fosters inclusive spaces where people feel safe, valued, and empowered. Grounded in her spiritual and cultural beliefs, Najma centres compassion, respect, and dignity in her work. Shaped by empathy and lived experience, she believes change begins with listening and connection. Always up for a coffee and a chat, Najma welcomes opportunities to share stories, learn from others, and help build a more inclusive university environment for all.