On behalf of The AHMRC, it is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Anselm John Delaney, a proud Kamilaroi man and an inspiring leader and advocate for his people.
Born in 1934 on Burra Bee Dee Mission, John’s journey began in a family that carried the stories of land and resilience; deeply connected to Land Rights history, encouraged by legends like Jack Patten, William Cooper, William Ferguson, and Aunty Pearl Gibbs. His work, particularly with Aboriginal Health Services, was personal as well as professional. John was instrumental in building community capacity in many organisations and was involved with AHMRC for many years.
John’s legacy is one of dedication to Aboriginal rights and well-being. A former Councillor for the Western Metropolitan region of NSWALC and a member of the first elected NSWALC Council, John fought passionately for Aboriginal Health, Land Rights, Housing, Medical, Legal and Children’s Services, as well as Cultural Heritage and Business Development.
John’s contributions extended far beyond any single role. He served on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) for nine years, three of those as Chairperson of the Sydney Region, where he pushed for the Government to adopt the recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody. Through his leadership on ATSIC’s Sydney Region, his advocacy on the National Health & Medical Council, and his work with numerous Aboriginal Health and Housing Boards, John’s contributions were immense.
As Chair of the NSW Aboriginal Heritage Committee, board member of Redfern Aboriginal Medical Service, and founding board member of Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation and Daruk Aboriginal Medical Service, John’s commitment to improving health services and cultural preservation will be felt for generations to come.
Rest peacefully in the Dreamtime Anselm John Delany, thank you for making the world a better place for Aboriginal people.
