Professor Deborah Bateson is a distinguished clinician, researcher, and educator in sexual and reproductive health, with over 20 years of experience. She currently serves as a Professor of Practice at the Sydney Medical School at University of Sydney. Her career path includes a Biochemistry degree from Oxford University, a Master’s in Human Nutrition from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and medical studies at Hong Kong University. She has worked as a nutritionist in Tanzania and held significant roles at Family Planning NSW, including Medical Director, where she was involved in clinical services, education, research, and advocacy. In recognition of her services to medicine through research and education, and to reproductive health, Professor Bateson was appointed as a Member (AM) of the Order of Australia on the King’s Birthday in 2023.
As Treasurer of the PSRH, Professor Bateson has focused on supporting the Secretariat and ensuring financial transparency for the Board. This has facilitated key decisions, such as engaging a Fiji-based company to develop a new website. Collaborating with fellow Board Member Dr. Nancy Hamura, she co-leads the family planning and contraception sub-committee, with initiatives underway to establish a postpartum contraception network across member countries. She also supports the President in strategic decisions to enhance PSRH’s visibility and sustainable impact in the region.
Throughout her career, Professor Bateson has navigated challenges, including balancing professional responsibilities with family life during her medical internship. She successfully advocated for job-sharing arrangements, paving the way for future doctors seeking flexible work options.
Focusing on future goals, Professor Bateson envisions equitable access to evidence-based reproductive health information and services for women across the Pacific. She advocates for high-quality training for healthcare providers and values the region’s contributions to global health, such as Papua New Guinea’s leadership in cervical cancer prevention. She believes PSRH will continue to play a crucial role in supporting optimal reproductive health, ensuring no one is left behind.