Dr Hunter's fearless advocacy and outstanding leadership in the area of Indigenous health earned him the respect of a wide range of people. While he fought uncompromisingly for the cause, Dr Hunter was regarded respectfully, even affectionately, by his counterparts in politics and government. The judges acknowledged Dr Hunter's unwavering commitment over many years to improving Aboriginal health in the face of hostility, disruption to his family, financial hardship and his own health.
As the inaugural Chairman of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation since 1991 until his death, Dr Hunter had worked far beyond the level of his professional responsibility. He was a member of several key Aboriginal health, policy and advisory groups. He negotiated framework agreements on Aboriginal health to improve the coordination of health service delivery by all spheres of government. He also negotiated Medicare agreements with the Federal Health Minister to give the Aboriginal Community Health Services the legal ability to bulk bill Medicare and arrangements under the PBS to supply medicines through Aboriginal health services in remote areas.
Human rights medal
Winner