Richard Franklin

Professor Richard Franklin, PhD, FPHAA, FARL, FACTM is Head of Public Health and Tropical Medicine at James Cook University, Australia, and an internationally recognised leader in drowning prevention, injury prevention, and public health. With a strong foundation in epidemiology and research translation, he has dedicated much of his career to developing and implementing evidence-based strategies that reduce drowning and improve water safety outcomes. 

Professor Franklin has played a significant role in advancing drowning prevention nationally and internationally, including helping establish the Global Drowning Prevention Leaders Program, contributing to the development of national and local drowning prevention strategies, and supporting capacity building across the sector. He has led the development of several influential drowning prevention initiatives, including the Grey Medallion, Keep Watch @ Farms, Keep Watch @ Bathtime, Designated Supervisor Program, and the Pool Fencing Inspector Course. 

A passionate advocate for leadership development, Professor Franklin has organised numerous national and international conferences, workshops, and training programs aimed at strengthening the drowning prevention workforce and supporting the next generation of practitioners. He currently serves on the Royal Life Saving Society Australia Board, is President of Kidsafe Australia, and is a Past President of the Australian Injury Prevention Network and treasurer of the Public Health Association of Australia. His expertise spans advocacy, governance, finance, research, education, program development, and the translation of evidence into effective drowning prevention policy and practice.