I’m Dr. Amran Dhillon. My journey into healthcare has been anything but conventional, but it’s shaped me into the person and professional I am today.

With almost two decades of experience spanning nursing, medicine, advocacy, and creative communication, I’ve dedicated my life to improving health outcomes and empowering others through compassion, education, and innovation.

I started my healthcare journey as a first aider with St. John Ambulance Australia. That experience ignited my passion for helping others and led me to pursue nursing at the Australian Catholic University. Working as a registered nurse for two years taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of empathy—qualities that continue to guide my practice today.

While I loved nursing, I felt drawn to expand my impact. I completed my medical degree at Deakin University, graduating in 2012, and began my career as a rural GP trainee.

Transitioning from nursing to medicine was challenging, but it gave me a unique perspective on patient care and the value of a multidisciplinary approach.
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I love rural medicine. After completing my fellowship with the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine in 2018, I became a Rural GP Anaesthetist.

Currently, I’m working toward a second fellowship in specialist anaesthetics.Practicing in rural Victoria has been both rewarding and demanding. In smaller towns, you wear many hats—doctor, paramedic, and problem-solver—often with limited resources. It’s here that my nursing background has been invaluable, enabling me to think on my feet and provide comprehensive care.

I believe working in rural settings teaches you to be innovative and adaptable, and I encourage other healthcare professionals to experience it for themselves.
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Advocacy has always been a cornerstone of my career. I began as a national youth representative for Headspace Australia, where I was privileged to address national audiences, including sharing the stage with the Hon. Nicola Roxon (Former Health Minister of Australia) at the inaugural International Youth Mental Health Conference in 2010.

Those early experiences in mental health advocacy inspired me to pursue leadership roles throughout my medical career.I’ve served on multiple national and regional committees, advocating for junior doctors, rural healthcare, and improved workforce conditions.
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Through my roles with organisations like the Australian Medical Association and the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine, I’ve worked tirelessly to ensure that training programs meet the needs of doctors and that systemic improvements are made to support our profession.

Medicine is my calling, but I firmly believe that pursuing passions outside of work is essential for balance and personal growth. I’ve been dancing since I was a child, even competing in state-level hip-hop competitions. I’m also an avid tennis player, runner, and fitness enthusiast.

When I’m not studying or working, I enjoy traveling to explore new cultures and connect with people from all walks of life.

I am also passionate about public speaking, and as a national youth representative for Headspace Australia, I had the opportunity to feature on national news in 2008 during a major funding announcement.

These hobbies aren’t just for fun—they’ve shaped my approach to healthcare. Dance, for instance, has taught me the power of nonverbal communication, while fitness has reinforced my belief in lifestyle health as a cornerstone of well-being.
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My journey hasn’t always been easy. I’ve faced challenges and setbacks, but I’ve learned that adversity creates opportunities.

These experiences have fueled my passion for leadership, advocacy, and creative problem-solving. I want to inspire others in healthcare to embrace their unique talents and find innovative ways to make a difference.

Through community health, my clinical work, and my advocacy efforts, I aim to improve health literacy and ensure that everyone—regardless of background—has access to trusted, compassionate healthcare.

I’m excited to continue this journey, combining my passions to create a healthier, more connected world.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about me. I look forward to sharing this journey with you.

Here are some featured articles from universities and health organisations that highlight my journey, achievements, and contributions to healthcare and advocacy.