Rotary Melbourne welcomed and inducted Tristan Kennedy on 5 March 2025 with the classification Indigenous Education.
Tristan was born in Adelaide on Kaurna Country. He studied at both Flinders University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) and Doctor of Philosophy, and The University of Adelaide where he gained a Graduate Diploma in Education.
After a brief time practicing as a middle and senior secondary teacher of English and Social Studies, Tristan commenced his career in Higher Education at Yunggorendi First Nations Centre at Flinders University where he conducted sociological research into digital technology and musicology and led initiatives to support Indigenous peoples’ successful participation at University.
Tristan has previously worked at Macquarie University in Sydney teaching Indigenous Studies and researching Indigenous peoples’ experiences of new technologies and social media. In 2022, Tristan took on the role of Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous) at Monash University. In 2024, this role was elevated, and Tristan became the inaugural Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous) and Senior Vice-President.
Tristan and his family are passionate about sustainability and off-grid living. In 2022 they completed construction of one of Australia’s first council approved Earthship homes.
Tristan is a member of the Kew - North Balwyn group.
