The University of Western Australia is saddened by the loss of Dr Penny Flett AO, a pioneering medical specialist, visionary healthcare leader and former UWA Pro-Chancellor, who has died aged 77.
Dr Flett's life was defined by breaking barriers and improving lives. After graduating in medicine from the University of Adelaide in 1971, she made history as the first woman doctor to serve in the Royal Australian Air Force during the Vietnam War era while stationed at Butterworth in Malaysia as a Flight Lieutenant (medical).
Her transformative work in aged care began in the late 1970s when she dedicated herself to ensuring dignified and appropriate services for Australia's ageing population.
After moving to Perth in 1984, Dr Flett joined what was then called the ‘Homes of Peace’, later transformed under her leadership into the Brightwater Care Group. During her 20-year tenure as CEO, she revolutionised the organisation's approach, shifting from traditional hospital models to home-like environments across Perth.
One of her most significant achievements was establishing a successful rehabilitation service for young adults with brain injuries, giving them pathways to independence they would otherwise never have had.
UWA Vice-Chancellor Professor Amit Chakma said Dr Flett's contributions to the University during her 11 years of service on the Senate were invaluable.
“Dr Flett brought extraordinary vision and compassion to everything she did and her deep understanding of healthcare systems, combined with her business acumen and commitment to education, made her an exceptional Pro-Chancellor,” Professor Chakma said.
“She helped strengthen UWA's connections to healthcare and community sectors while championing inclusive education opportunities. Her legacy will continue to inspire our University community.”
Image: Dr Penny Flett was awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Medicine at UWA in 2021.
Dr Flett's achievements have been recognised with numerous accolades, including being named Telstra National Australian Business Woman of the Year (1998), receiving the Centenary Medal (2001), becoming WA Australian of the Year (2009), and being appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (2014) for her work in the aged care and education sectors.
Her pioneering spirit extended to corporate leadership as well. In 2006, she became the first woman elected as President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA, where she worked to bring commercial expertise to the not-for-profit sector.
Dr Flett served on many influential boards and committees, including as inaugural Chair of the Federal Government's Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency, on the Aged Care Workforce Strategy Taskforce and as Chair of the Australian Bravery decorations
The University community extends its deepest sympathies to Dr Flett's family and friends. Her extraordinary contributions to medicine, aged care, disability services, education and community leadership have left an indelible mark on Western Australia.