Tribute messages

On behalf of the Australian Government Department of Education, I offer my heartfelt condolences to Emma’s family, friends, and the entire University of Melbourne community after Emma’s recent passing. Emma was a truly remarkable person—an exceptionally talented academic, a generous colleague, and an inspiring leader. She was deeply committed to strengthening public policy and consistently gave her time, insight, and expertise to support national higher education reform. Her extraordinary communication skills and her genuine ability to connect with others made her not only highly respected but deeply loved. Emma’s warmth, integrity, and kindness touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing or working with her. She will be profoundly missed, and her legacy will continue to have a lasting impact.

Tony Cook

I did not have the pleasure of meeting Professor Johnston during her time as Vice-Chancellor, but I had looked forward to doing so at some stage. I a was delighted when her appointment was announced and impressed by the very high regard in which she evidently was held by those who had worked with her. She seemed an excellent fit for the University of Melbourne in so many ways and made a real difference while she was here, through her ideas and her manner of dealing with people including, critically, members of the university community. Her passing is a great tragedy and a great loss.

Cheryl Saunders, Laureate Professor Emeritus

On behalf of the Invergowrie Foundation I express our deep sadness and heartfelt condolences to family, friends and colleagues of Professor Emma Johnston AO, at a time of such devastating loss. Her exceptional leadership and strong advocacy for women in STEM made a lasting difference. Her legacy will continue to inspire.

Kim Bartlett, The Invergowrie Foundation

Dear Emma, Your vision has inspired so many, and your legacy will endure. Wishing you peace, and thank you for your leadership.

Kate

Emma, Your love of science and your vibrant communication skills are only bested by your ability to be such a lovely person every single day. You will be missed by so many but I will aim to focus on the great experiences we shared and not the massive gap left by your absence. Thank you for showing the way forward in the trail you forged ahead...

William Glamore

Emma made an enormous contribution to many worthy causes, not least the protection and sustainable management of the Great Barrier Reef. Countless people involved in this work, in industry and government agencies have been inspired and encouraged by Emma's leadership and commitment. Thank you! You leave a lasting legacy.

Daniel Gschwind, Chair, Tourism Reef Advisory Committee, Great Barrier Reef Management Authority.

There are no words for such a tragic and untimely loss. Professor Emma Johnston was truly distinguished in her field and admired as an inspiring, caring leader and colleague. Her contribution to marine ecosystems and the environment endures as a proud legacy, to be continued by the many she inspired and guided along the way. My thoughts, and the thoughts of my colleagues at RMIT University, are with Emma’s family, friends and the University of Melbourne community as they navigate this difficult time. The higher education sector will celebrate her contribution and we will remember her. Professor Alec Cameron

Professor Alec Cameron

Emma was an inspiring and thoughtful leader, who made a significant impact despite her short time at the University of Melbourne. Thinking of her family at this difficult time

Charlotte Hart

As both and Alumni and committee member I had the opportunity to work with Emma throughout 2025. Emma was heart felt, open and so professional. Her deep care for the community she led and educated was at the forefront of her work. The Australian education community has lost a compassionate and exemplary leader. I am deeply saddened for Emma's family, friends, staff and the entire University of Melbourne community. I will miss Emma, her leadership has left an imprint that will always be remembered.

Vicki Russell

I am still reeling from the loss of such a unique person, a wonderful scientist, expert communicator, and true friend. I served on many committees with Emma and valued her input and enjoyed many social interactions. She shared wonderful Facebook posts of marine scenery and her family adventures that were indicative of a full and very happy life. It is so cruel that all this had to end so prematurely when she had so much more to give. I especially feel for her family who suffer now but have so many fond memories. Graeme Batley

Dr Graeme Batley AM

Emma was a true leader, the University community has suffered a great loss, she has made lasting contributions into the legacy of our institution. My sincerest sympathies are with her family and friends.

Kevin Li

Sydney Water remembers Professor Emma Johnston AO for her generous contribution to our Environment Week events in 2023. As a renowned scientist and researcher, we were thrilled to have her as our guest speaker. In conversation with Professor Johnston, she not only shared her expertise in conservation science and marine ecology with us, but also demonstrated the strength of humility in leadership. We honour her eminent contribution to science and research in Australia and thank her for sharing her time with us at Sydney Water in an authentic and engaging manner. Vale Professor Emma Johnston AO

Denisha Anbu, Executive General Manager, Customer Experience