Kerry Stokes awarded honorary doctorate by Curtin University for child health contribution

Curtin University have awarded Kerry Stokes an honorary science doctorate for his “significant and sustained contribution to child health research in Western Australia.”

The doctorate recognises the media and business magnate’s life-long committent to philanthropy, Curtin University Vice-Chancellor John Cordery said.

“Along with his significant contribution to the media industry, Mr Stokes has also helped to change the culture of giving in WA through Telethon," Professor Cordery remarked.

"Mr Stokes has committed his life to making an extraordinary contribution to WA’s health community and has had a positive impact on the lives of children in need.”

“His long-term commitment to child health research shows him to be a most worthy recipient of the award of Honorary Doctorate of Science."

Mr Stokes was the chairman of the children’s charity Telethon until 2018. The charity funds research into brain cancer and leukaemia in children, and since 1968 has raised almost $350 million for sick children and their families.

As the Chair of Seven West Media, the publisher of The West Australia, Mr Stokes also uses his TV medium to broadcast the Telethon. Last year, Mr Stokes personally donated $2.5 million on behalf of his family and Australian Capital Equity.

This is not the first time that the eighty year-old has been recognised for his philanthropy. In 2008 he was appointed as a Companion in the General Division of the Order of Australia, and in 2012 he was honoured as WA Australian of the Year in 2012.