Matthew Craig

My name is Matthew Craig. Born and raised on Darkinjung/Guringai Country with ancestral roots to Bundjalung Country, I had lived experiences with personal hardships, academic pursuits, and professional accomplishments, all converged into a singular mission: transforming Indigenous mental health.

I am an active volunteer at various community-based organisations. My academic pursuits resonate with my commitment to uplifting the community and ensuring all our voices are heard, valued, and integrated into the broader dialogue on mental health.

Being the first in my family to enter university, I recognise the profound significance of mentorship, collaboration, and shared knowledge. My interactions with past recipients of the Dr Tracy Westerman Indigenous Psychology Scholarship highlighted the potential of the scholarship not just as financial support, but as a beacon for Indigenous voices in the mental health field.

My research pursuits delve deep into cultural resilience factors, focusing on their role in neurological functioning. My work aims to unravel the complex relationship between culture, resilience, and mental health, in striving to advocate for a more inclusive and effective care.

Looking to the future, my family and I plan to relocate to Far North Queensland. This decision aligns with my dedication to serving regions with significant Indigenous populations and is synergised with my role at the James Cook University Indigenous Education Research Centre.

I see my journey as a mission. A mission to uplift, empower, and make meaningful, lasting change in Indigenous mental health and beyond.