Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue AC CBE DSG
1 August 1932 – 4 February 2024
The late Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue AC CBE DSG, Yankunytjatjara woman, died peacefully aged 91 on 4 February 2024.
Please read the Family Statement
Lowitja O’Donoghue Foundation
On 1 August 2022, Lowitja Institute proudly announced the formation of the Lowitja O’Donoghue Foundation, in honour of this significant day, the 90th birthday of the late Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue AC CBE DSG.
Yankunytjatjara woman Dr O’Donoghue was arguably Australia’s most recognised Aboriginal woman. A powerful and unrelenting advocate for her people and an inspiration to many.
Dr O’Donoghue’s lifetime contribution to the advancement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights, produced significant outcomes in health, education, political representation, land rights and reconciliation.
Lowitja Institute, Australia’s only national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community controlled health research institute, is named in honour of its Co-Patron, Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue AC CBE DSG.
The Lowitja O’Donoghue Foundation acknowledges, recognises, and preserves the extraordinary legacy of Dr O’Donoghue’s dedicated lifetime of work and creates opportunities for advancement and change.
Latest news
LOWITJA – A Life of Leadership and Legacy
Dr O’Donoghue’s remarkable life and lasting impact was remembered and honoured in an inaugural exhibition titled LOWITJA – A Life of Leadership and Legacy.
The exhibition portrayed her most iconic, triumphant, and heartbreaking moments from childhood, a career in health, Indigenous activism, high-profile leadership, and stellar career in Australian Aboriginal Affairs.
Held at the Kerry Packer Civic Gallery managed by The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre, University of South Australia in Adelaide, from 4 June to 25 July 2025, The exhibition was proudly presented by The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre, in partnership with the Lowitja O’Donoghue Foundation and Lowitja Institute, with the support of principal sponsor, the Government of South Australia and supporting partners, Adelaide Airport and The Healing Foundation.
A trailblazer, leader and advocate
This tribute was made in honour of the late Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue AC CBE DSG.
Learn more about Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue’s life
Biography and achievements timeline
As a national organisation, we acknowledge the traditional owners of the land across Australia and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. Our offices are located on the lands of the Wurundjeri people.
