Murdoch University's Dr Eric Lim has been named as the Australian Mental Health Nurse of the Year for 2026.

Dr Lim, a Senior Lecturer and Academic Chair of Contemporary Mental Health at Murdoch, was awarded the prestigious honour by the Australian College of Mental Health Nurses (ACMHN).

A credentialed mental health nurse with more than 20 years of experience in the field, Dr Lim has dedicated his career to advancing mental health nursing through education, research, and clinical excellence.

He was appointed the inaugural Chair of the ACMHN Research Special Interest Group and is also a fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Dr Lim’s research is focused on improving the mental health of underrepresented groups, such as young people with mental illnesses and those who are culturally and racially marginalised.

His work has seen him establish both a national and global reputation.

“It is a tremendous honour to receive this award from the Australian College of Mental Health Nurses,” Dr Lim said.

“I am deeply grateful to Murdoch University for its ongoing support, and to the ACMHN for this recognition.

“This acknowledgement reflects the collective commitment of my colleagues, students, and the broader mental health nursing community to improving outcomes for people in need.”

Dean and Head of School of Nursing, Professor Frank Donnelly, congratulated Dr Lim on the “outstanding achievement”.

“We are immensely proud of Dr Lim for receiving this national honour,” he said.

“His expertise, generosity, and commitment to improving mental health outcomes have a profound impact on our students. To learn from someone so respected in the field is an extraordinary opportunity that enriches their education and shapes their future practice.”

Pro Vice Chancellor, College of Health and Education, Guillermo Campitelli, said the college was “incredibly proud to see his contribution recognised at a national level”.

“Dr Lim’s achievement is a testament not only to his exceptional expertise, but also to the compassion and integrity he brings to mental health nursing.”

Read more about the School of Nursing here.