Vale Professor Tony Walker ASM

Professor Tony Walker ASM was one of Australia’s most respected leaders in Paramedicine and Emergency Services and was a cherished member of the VU community.

Across a distinguished career spanning frontline, clinical and executive leadership roles, Professor Walker dedicated more than 40 years to advancing ambulance services, clinical practice, workforce wellbeing and community care.  He played a pivotal role in shaping Paramedicine as a profession and has made a lasting contribution to emergency healthcare across Australia.

A registered Paramedic and Fellow and Life Member of the Australasian College of Paramedicine, Professor Walker made a substantial contribution to research and scholarship, publishing extensively on paramedic practice and pre-hospital systems of care.

Professor Walker’s contribution has been recognised through some of the profession’s highest honours, including the Ambulance Service Medal, National Heart Foundation President’s Award and Australian Resuscitation Council Medal. In 2019, he was also named a finalist for the Australian Mental Health Prize in recognition of his leadership in improving the mental health and wellbeing of Paramedics and Emergency Service workers. 

VU Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker shared a tribute to Professor Walker and extended deep condolences:

“Tony was one of the most exceptional people it has ever been my privilege to know. 

“As Chief Executive Officer of Ambulance Victoria (2014-22), he led significant organisational transformation, strengthening service delivery while championing the health and wellbeing of paramedics and emergency service personnel. 

“Tony generously shared his expertise through leadership and governance roles across the health, consulting and not-for-profit sectors. At VU, Tony's legacy will endure through the establishment of the National Centre of Excellence in Paramedicine, a vision he so enthusiastically helped bring to life and one that will continue to benefit students, practitioners, researchers and communities for generations to come.

“While we celebrate Tony's remarkable achievements, we also mourn the loss of a deeply respected colleague, mentor and friend who touched the lives of countless people through his generosity, genuineness, integrity and commitment to serving others,” Professor Shoemaker said.