Dr Nigar Khawaja
President's Award for Distinguished Contribution to Psychology in Australia

Award type: Showcase

Adjunct Professor Nigar G. Khawaja FAPS is a Clinical Psychologist with a strong commitment to improving the mental health and wellbeing of at-risk culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) populations, through culturally responsive services. Nigar’s internationally renowned cross-cultural and transcultural research has examined the challenges faced by migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and international students. She pioneered culturally safe and sensitive assessment measures and interventions for CALD. Her research has informed national and international policies. Nigar has published 140 papers, presented at 70 conferences, and delivered twenty keynotes. She has secured competitive grants and provides expert advice and consultation to government and non-government organisations. In her leadership roles at the Australian Psychological Society (past [2009-2013] and present Chair of the Psychology and Cultures Interest Group) she developed guidelines for psychologists and led the design and implementation of training programs promoting the culturally reflexive practice of psychologists. As a Professor at the Queensland University of Technology (1998-2024), she trained more than 400 postgraduate students as Clinical Psychologists and received Vice Chancelor awards (2003,2009 and 2016) for her leadership in education. Through her advocacy roles, public lectures, and public debates, she continues to educate the community and stakeholders about the issues of CALD communities in Australia.