Applicants for membership in the Central South Eastern Region are listed below. Click on each name to view their biography and photo (if supplied).
Click here to go back to the main 2024 member election webpage.
Applicants (in alphabetical order)
Natalie Brown
My family and I live on Ngambri / Ngunnawal country and my Browns are Gamilaroi with family connections to Tingha, Merriwa and surrounds, and both north and south coast of NSW.
I am the Chair of Our Boori’s Our Way Committee. This role requires leadership of the Committee as we oversee the implementation of our recommendations that were agreed to by the ACT Government in 2019. I have recently led the process of renewing our Governance – both structures and practices, to enable and support the Committee as we work together to reform systems that impact on our children, young people and families. Our governance is submitted to Cabinet for their information and the Minister must present to Cabinet every 6 months on the journey towards implementation of our recommendations. One of our recent achievements is the creation, legislation, and recruitment of the inaugural ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Childrens Commissioner, which is an independent statutory position. We are also driving other legislative reforms that will reduce over-representation of our children in Out of Home Care and improve other wellbeing indicators for our kids such as health and education.
In terms of more direct legal experience, I completed a degree in Sociology and Criminology back in the 90’s and worked for the Institute of Criminology on reviewing the RCIADIC custodial recommendations, where my focus was primarily on children. More recently, I have managed Justice Reinvestment Programs and successfully advocated for increased funding for care and protection matters for our families. I am also on the SNAICC National Leadership Group and my working groups include Legal Services.
I have a special interest in using evidence-based data to inform and pursue goals for our community members. I am a strategic thinker and am able collaboratively leverage support to achieve implementation goals. My professional experience and skills relate to the work of the ALS across several domains, and I am hopeful that community members will value my contribution to ALS as a member.
Mark Elliott
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
I am a proud Gayemagal man from the northern beaches, my tie is with the Gayemagal people, the traditional owners.
My Grandmother was taken from her mother (stolen generation), which in turn caused my mother to have much pain and suffering, my mother was forced to live a sheltered life, hiding who she was.
It has become my passion and goal not to let this happen to our people again.
Where do you live and what are your connections to your local community?
I live on the Central Coast of NSW, and have for over 30 years, my connection is with the local land, people and community as a whole.
How do your professional experiences and skills relate to the work of the ALS?
I have worked in a senior management role for over 30 years and hold an MBA obtained from the university of Newcastle in 1996.
Combined with the work I have done working for the department of communities and justice for over 10 years, at the Frank Baxter youth detention centre in Kariong NSW, I would bring a wealth of knowledge and experience.
What knowledge and perspectives would you bring as an ALS member?
As a proud Gayemagal man who has lived with the knowledge of the issues and stress related to the Aboriginal people, I know I can deliver a fresh creative way as an ALS member.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
The principles of good governance is of upmost importance, including but not limited to:
- Equity and inclusiveness
- Participation
- Accountability
- Strategic vision
- Transparency
- Effectiveness and efficiency
Good Governance is about the time you dedicate to working 'on' your common goal, rather than 'in' it. This includes all the checks and balances you put in place to ensure the ALS runs smoothly, meets its objectives, and stays out of trouble. Governance also means getting expert advice on matters you don't yet know enough about, including expert advice and support when making important decisions.
Is there anything else you want to tell community about why you want to be a member and why they should vote for you?
I am proud and passionate about who our people are, if I can help make some difference with our community in which our people can thrive and grow and be inclusive without prejudice, this would be my goal.
Toumanda Fohrman
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
I am a proud Bunjalung and Worimi woman.
Where do you live and what are your connections to your local community?
I was raised and currently live on Dharawal Country on the South Coast. I dedicated my academic studies and career to my culture. I was a member of the Shellharbour City Council Aboriginal Advisory Committee and NSW Aboriginal Land Council Youth Advisory Committee. I represented NSWALC YAC at the 40th Anniversary of Land Rights at the NSW Parliament.
How do your professional experiences and skills relate to the work of the ALS?
As a lawyer admitted in 2023, I am well aware of the work and undertaking of ALS, and I am committed to the strategic goals and values of the ALS. In 2024 I completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Foundations of Directorship Course as MAICD. My excellent stakeholder engagement skills and problem-solving will be of great asset to the ALS. Extending to my adaptable negotiation and communication skills founded on advocacy work.
What knowledge and perspectives would you bring as an ALS member?
As a young Aboriginal woman, I bring a perspective based on forward-thinking, future-proofing and ensuring our culture is protected and that we continue to advocate for our rights and future generations. The ability to think outside the box, draw upon lived academic and cultural experiences, deliver projects, provide advice, and remain impartial are among my strongest assets.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
Good governance is vital to the successful operation and delivery of a well informed and delivered company. Governance is essential to the daily function and operations of a company founded on a common purpose to achieve a desired goal for its members and people. In order for company values to flourish, the people making the decisions and acting on behalf of their members need to
Is there anything else you want to tell community about why you want to be a member and why they should vote for you?
I will always promise to remain dedicated and passionate and give everything a fair go. I aim to thrive to best support my community and culture to thrive long into the future.
Cindy Fuller
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
My name is Cindy Fuller. I am a proud Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi woman. I was born on Wailwan Country after both my mother and father's families were rounded up and put on missions and reserves.
I have lived on Ngunnawal Country since 1991.
I was a public servant since the 1970s working in the Department of Education ACT, Women's Service ACT, Commonwealth Employment Service and Department of Social Security.
I am now a retired Public Servant since 2006 and a current Director on the ALS Board. My passion for community and our Mob keep me going.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
I am an honest person and I am about community, truth, transparency, accountability, equity, inclusiveness and responsiveness to community needs. These principles are crucial for the organisation to operate ensuring the ALS runs smoothly, so that decisions and actions are clear and understandable to the community it serves.
I would love to be re-elected as a member of the ALS and can achieve this with your support and vote.
Paul Gray
I am a Wiradjuri man and Associate Professor at the Jumbunna Institute of Indigenous Education and Research, UTS, where I lead their child protection research hub. My work focuses on transforming child protection systems and practice to promote and uphold the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people, and the implementation of community-led, culturally grounded, and evidence-informed approaches to child and family welfare.
My primary focus as a member of the Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT) is to contribute strategic advice to improving child protection systems, as well as the scope and availability of services provided by the ALS to children and families affected by child protection authorities in NSW and the ACT. This is informed by personal and professional experience, and importantly, direct engagement with children and young people and their families affected by child protection systems, whose experiences through these legal systems emphasise clearly the importance of a strong and strategic Aboriginal Legal Service for our communities, providing high quality individual legal services as well as advocating for system and policy change in service of our communities.
I bring to the role national child protection networks and experience in organisational governance and strategic advocacy. This includes executive roles with an Aboriginal peak organisation (AbSec NSW), as well as serving as co-chair of the Family Matters National Leadership Group, and as an independent member of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Working Group for the National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children, and the Early Childhood Care and Development and Social and Emotional Wellbeing Policy Partnerships under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. I have also previously served as national co-chair of the Australian Indigenous Psychologists Association, as well as on the Board of my local land council.
I have contributed to effective advocacy in these sectors, including the Aboriginal Case Management Policy in NSW, which includes an important expanded role for advocacy (including legal advocacy) for children and families in NSW, legislative change to strengthen the focus on preventing the removal of Aboriginal children from their families, and the development of strong accountability mechanisms, such as the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Commissioner role in the ACT, which has recently been appointed. I also contributed to advocacy for the recently announced National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children.
You can read more about my work and experience at https://profiles.uts.edu.au/paul.gray
Antionette House
I believe the Aboriginal Legal Service NSW/ACT provides a vital service to ensure Justice for our People in a Culturally Appropriate Manner, while protecting the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People and Communities.
My name is Antionette House and I am a Bidjara and Kombumerri Woman from South East Queensland, I have lived in Queanbeyan on Ngunnawal Country for over 30 years and my Children are Ngunnawal. In this time, I have always been an active member of the community, as an Aboriginal Health Worker -Aboriginal Liaison Officer for 14 years, then as CEO of Munjuwa Aboriginal Health & Housing Corporation for 10 years. I have been a Board Member of several Aboriginal Community Organisations.
Before originally becoming an ALS Member and Director in 2009, I was the Chairperson for the Aboriginal Legal Service for South Eastern NSW (SEALS) and had also been involved with Aboriginal Legal Services in Brisbane and Ipswich.
I have spent most of my working life in Aboriginal Affairs for both Government and Community Organisations, with a focus on health, education, housing, legal and justice issues.
I have been a Director of the Aboriginal Legal Service NSW/ACT since 2009-2017 then had a break and I rejoined the ALS Board of Directors in 2021.
Stuart Larkins
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
I'm Stuart Larkins, I am from the NSW South Coast and part of the Wodi Wodi-Yuin Communities.
Where do you live and what are your connections to your local community?
I live in Kiama and have lived here my entire life. My grandmother grew up in Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community, with my grandfather from Ulladulla. My mother, Lyn Carriage grew up in Ulladulla and raised my sister and I in Kiama.
How do your professional experiences and skills relate to the work of the ALS?
I have outlined my education background in the below section. I am a current Electorate Officer working for the Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips MP and I am a currently elected Councillor on Kiama Municipal Council. I understand the work of being on a board and have a number of roles in committees in local government.
What knowledge and perspectives would you bring as an ALS member?
I completed a Law/Arts (Major in Politics, Minor in Indigenous Studies) double degree in 2016 from the University of Wollongong. I finished a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice in 2017 from the Australian National University and I am currently undertaking a part time Masters of Public Policy from the University of Canberra.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
I understand the importance of good governance, and being transparent and accountable with the community. I believe that listening to members of the Aboriginal community is very important and working across a broader section of the community is very important for the Aboriginal Legal Service.
Is there anything else you want to tell community about why you want to be a member and why they should vote for you?
I am 31 years old, and while I believe that anyone should be able to contribute to a board and organisation, it is very important to have a cross section of ages represented. Diversity of age perspectives within the Aboriginal community is needed, especially given that the demographic of the Aboriginal community in NSW is younger people.
Greg Lewis
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
I am a Gadigal man. Direct descendant of Mary Hurst.
Where do you live and what are your connections to your local community?
I am a full voting member of the Gandangara Land Council.
I live at Mt. Annan 2567.
How do your professional experiences and skills relate to the work of the ALS?
Previously licensed in the building trade helpful with community housing issues. Personal experience in LAHC tribunal.
What knowledge and perspectives would you bring as an ALS member?
Appropriate measures to assist in resolution of issues relating to maintenance and other issues related to community housing acquired through personal involvement.
I wish to learn more, assist and pass on information learned.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
Honesty, integrity, information gathering, leading and problem solving. Governing is managing.
Is there anything else you want to tell community about why you want to be a member and why they should vote for you?
Once I have reviewed ALL the available information, investigated the situation myself and decide to take the task on, then I will relentlessly follow through to the appropriate outcome. It's my nature.
Liza Loader
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
I am a 57 year old mother of 3. One of my son’s got married last year so I now have gained another beautiful daughter. Where I live has an abundance of Aboriginal heritage beside Sydney's Royal National Park, called Bundeena which means “Noise like Thunder”. My mob is Gumbaynggir. All of my biological family are based in Nambucca Heads.
Where do you live and what are your connections to your local community?
Bundeena has rock engravings within 1.5 klms from me which were made over a thousand years ago by the Dharawal people. Archaeologists believe 900 Dharawal people inhabited this area, leaving paintings, engravings, drawings & stencils. I connect by being naturally drawn to the Ocean and appreciating the natural surroundings
How do your professional experiences and skills relate to the work of the ALS?
Over twenty years’ experience in customer service has provided me with professionalism. My skills include accuracy, problem solving, conflict resolution, time management, empathy, communication, patience, follow-up, and most importantly; listening.
What knowledge and perspectives would you bring as an ALS member?
I have gained knowledge to be proud of who you are. My perspectives come from being born in the 1960’s where acceptance was lacking, yet today, a shift in social attitude is prevalent.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
Transparency, honesty and integrity.
Good Governance instils loyalty.
Is there anything else you want to tell community about why you want to be a member and why they should vote for you?
I would like to help people navigate the options available to them. I would like people to know that they have support.
Keith Morgan
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
I am a proud Wiradjuri / Ngunnawal Man. My great Grandmother, Janet Webster, (Wiradjuri woman) married my great grandfather John Montague Elliott, (Ngunnawal Man) I was born in Narranderra NSW in 1964 and moved to the Queanbeyan area forty five (45) years ago. I am a proud father and Grandfather.
I have several qualifications including a master degree in Indigenous health, diploma in Aboriginal health and community development, certificates in business management and business planning, and a trade certificate in carpentry and joinery.
I served as the last ATSIC Chairperson for the Queanbeyan region and have been on numerous Aboriginal committees. I have been a Director with the ALS for the last three (3) terms.
How do your professional experiences and skills relate to the work of the ALS?
My knowledge, experience and Governance skills are an asset to any organisation, with these skills I will ensure the ALS is operating to the best standard possible. I am willing to share my management skills and working ethics with other members and administration of the ALS.
I have worked in Government agencies and Aboriginal Community Organisations over many years. I am passionate about influencing and empowering members to support better opportunities for all mob. I will make sure the ALS is accountable and responsible for all representing roles.
I would love the opportunity to be re-elected as a member focusing on strategic, political and operational significance. I am committed to working towards positive goals to increase legal representation / support for our mob.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
- Transparency
- Honesty and Integrity
- Accountability
- Responsibility
The principles of good governance that are often considered important for organisations like the ALS which include all the above and more to be responsiveness to community needs, ensuring that decisions and actions are clear and understandable to the community it serves.
Kiarra Morgan
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
I am a proud Wiradjuri/Ngunnawal Woman on my paternal Grandmother, on my Fathers side and a proud Pitjara / Bidjara — Jinibara Woman on my Mothers side. I was born on Ngunnawal Country, Canberra ACT.
I currently live on Wiradjuri Country in between, Yuin Country and Ngunnawal Country. I have many connections to community through my mob.
I am young, but given the opportunity I am always keen to listen and learn to gain more knowledge, especially when it come to helping our people.
I am currently employed with the local council as the Identified Trainee — Community and Recreation Officer.
I have been raised to show respect, have morals, values and most importantly keeping connected to family and culture.
If elected as an Aboriginal Legal Service Member, culture and an understanding of sensitivity providing effective support to our mob.
The issues our mob face have been embedded in an awareness of historical injustices, systemic barriers and the need for culturally appropriate and community-driven legal services.
I would aim to advocate for the rights of our mob and work towards addressing the inequalities and discrimination our people face with the legal system.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
Principles of good governance that are often considered important for all organisations and in this case the ALS requires, transparency, accountability, equity, inclusiveness and responsiveness to community needs. This is crucial for the organisation to operate ensuring the ALS runs smoothly, so that decisions and actions are clear and understandable to the community it serves.
As a young Aboriginal Woman, I am proud of who I am and the community I live in. I am always making connections and striving to do my best supporting all our mob from, Boori's, Youth and our Elders. I am always reaching out to my Aunties and Uncles for solutions to support community.
Shania Morgan
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
My name is Shania Morgan and I am a proud Wiradjuri/Ngunnawal Woman on my paternal Grandmother on my Fathers side and a proud Pitjara / Bidjara — Jinibara Woman on my Mothers side. I was born on Ngunnawal Country, Canberra ACT.
Where do you live and what are our connections to your local community?
I currently live on Wiradjuri Country in between, Yuin Country and Ngunnawal Country. I have a strong connection to mob through family connections. I have grown up in my local community and I participate in community events from national significant dates recognised by our mob and by supporting cultural sporting events.
How do your professional experiences and skills relate to the work of the ALS?
I am currently employed as a Chairside Dental assistant within my community. At present my professional experiences gives me management, communication and patience plus empathy. Having these skills which I can bring to the ALS as a member. I am a grassroots person who has been raised with respect, morals and values surrounded around family and culture.
If elected as an Aboriginal Legal Service Member, I would bring a cultural understanding of the issues faced by our community, where I can provide an effective support network to my community.
These experiences have been embedded in my awareness of historical injustices, systemic barriers and the need for culturally appropriate and community driven legal services. I would aim to advocate for the rights of our mob and work towards addressing the inequalities and discrimination our mob face with the legal system.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
Transparency, Accountability, Honesty and Trust, Equity, inclusiveness and responsiveness to community needs. These are all crucial for the organisation to operate ensuring the ALS runs smoothly, so that decisions and actions are clear and understandable to the community it serves.
Brendan Moyle
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
Kamilaroi/Gameroi.
Live in Canberra but known across NSW.
Where do you live and what are your connections to your local community?
- Former Chair of Ngambri LALC
- Former CEO of Darkinjung LALC
- Former Chair of SEARMS
- Former board member and chair of ALS
How do your professional experiences and skills relate to the work of the ALS?
Senior Exec service officer of Govt, experience in governance former CEO of ACCOs, budget and risk skills, community engagement.
What knowledge and perspectives would you bring as an ALS member?
Connection to community, holding govt to account, understanding need to change to better serve mob.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
Integrity, honesty, cultural authority and integrity, focus on real service for grassroots mob.
Is there anything else you want to tell community about why you want to be a member and why they should vote for you?
Aboriginal Agency first.
Mark Munnich
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
Ngaji gurrjin (hello, how are you all), my name is Mark Munnich, I was born and raised in Darwin Northern Territory, and my mob are Yawuru (from Broome), Yued (from Moora) and Gunggandji (from Yarrabah).
Where do you live and what are your connections to your local community?
I moved from Darwin to Sydney in 2019 and I currently live in Chippendale. Through my current and previous roles, I have established a number of connections with the local community but as someone who is not originally from Sydney, I am always looking at opportunities to build more connections with mob.
How do your professional experiences and skills relate to the work of the ALS?
By profession I am proud Aboriginal lawyer and an accountant, with a strong background in corporate governance and majority of my career I have worked in Aboriginal Community Control Organisations (‘ACCO’). I believe that my skillsets and knowledge of working in ACCO’s would make a great asset to the ALS.
What knowledge and perspectives would you bring as an ALS member?
I believe the experiences that I would bring to the ALS as a member, would be different perspectives and ideas as a young professional and I would be an active contributor in whatever capacity. As organisations change overtime, from my experience it is critical to ensure that the organisation adapts to that changing landscape and as an organisation we don’t become complacent or fall behind the times.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
For me the principles of good governance is ensuring a level of mutual respect, trust, transparency, accountability and in my view being courageous for one another which in my view are good governance and should be demonstrated from the top. Other principles of good governance is ensuring we are forward thinking and looking beyond the horizon to better prepare and organisation.
Good governance more within the space of the ALS, is critical to ensuring a successful and functioning organisation that contributes to quality and competent services to clients. Other elements that form good governance is providing that level of transparency and accountability to members, clients and other stakeholders who are vital to the organisation’s prospects.
Is there anything else you want to tell community about why you want to be a member and why they should vote for you?
This is my first time applying for membership and as mentioned that I am not originally from Sydney, but I am an open person who will certainly be able to answer any queries for those who don’t know me. Overall I am extremely passionate about social justice for our mob and being part of an organisation that pioneered Aboriginal Community Control is something that I would be proud to be part of and also contribute to.
Sherrin Murphy
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
My name is Sherrin Murphy and I am a proud Pitjara / Bidjara Woman on my Mothers side from Carnarvon Gorge, Springsure QLD and a proud Jinibara Woman on my fathers side from the Sunshine Coast, QLD.
I have lived on Ngunnawal / Wiradjuri Country for more than half my life. I am married to a Wiradjuri / Ngunnawal man and a proud mother and Grandmother, who's next generation have an affiliation being born on Ngunnawal land.
I am a respected Aunty / Elder of the community I live in and have the respect of the surrounding communities of the ALS CSE Region.
How do your professional experiences and skills relate to the work of the ALS?
I have worked in government agencies and ACCO's. My experiences and skills from the knowledge on my journey has kept the passion within me to stand up for mob and to help create positive changes.
From an early age I have been raised up around the political arena supporting our mob and keeping cultural connections. I hope to bring my knowledge of the cultural significance to the table and healing Spirit. I am passionate about all issues affecting our mob.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
+ Transparency
+ Honesty and Integrity
+ Accountability
+ Responsibility
I believe the principles for good governance contribute to a great board and a more responsiveness to community needs, ensuring that decisions and actions are clear and understandable to the community it serves.
Tamika Murphy
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
My name is Tamika Murphy and I am a proud Wiradjuri/Ngunnawal Woman on my paternal Grandmother side on my Fathers side and a proud Pitjara / Bidjara — Jinibara Woman on my Mothers side from sunny QLD. I was born on Ngunnawal Country, Canberra ACT.
I have a strong connections to my countries and I am known and respected by the First Nations communities to where I am from.
How do your professional experiences and skills relate to the work of the ALS?
I have worked in government agencies and ACCO's. I am passionate about influencing and empowering members to support better opportunities for First Nations people, our mob.
My experiences and skills to implement projects, policies and initiatives which have a strong emphasis on cultural reform. These experiences and skills I bring to the ALS to generate positive change to reach a common goal between organisations and the First Nations community.
I am a role model for junior members and I demonstrate this by my involvement in representing the First Nations peoples at community and political significant events.
I am currently a Director on the ALS Board. I would love the opportunity to be re-elected as a member focusing on First Nations strategic, political and operational significance. I am committed to working towards positive goals to increase legal representation / support for our people.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
Transparency, Honesty and Integrity, Accountability and Responsibility. These principles of good governance that are often considered important for organisations like the ALS which include all the above and more to be responsiveness to community needs, ensuring the decisions and actions are clear and understandable to the community it serves.
Nicholas Riley
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
I am a proud Tjapukai Aboriginal Man on my Mothers side from QLD. I was born in Nowra and lived in Ulladulla in my younger years. I have returned back on country.
I currently live on Wiradjuri Country in between Yuin Country and Ngunnawal Country. I have a strong connection to community through my extended family connections.
I am currently working as a qualified Carpenter. At present my professional experiences and skills give me management, communication and patience. Although I am young what I lack in experience I make up with enthusiasm and grassroots experiences.
I have been raised with respect, morals and values but most importantly keep my connections to Family and Culture that I bring to the ALS.
If re-elected as an Aboriginal Legal Service Member, I would bring a cultural understanding faced by our communities, providing an effective support to our mob.
These experiences have been embedded in my awareness of historical injustices, systemic barriers and the need for culturally appropriate and community driven legal services.
I would aim to advocate for the rights of our mob and work towards addressing the inequalities and discrimination our mob face within the legal system.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
Transparency, Accountability, Honesty and Trust. This is crucial for the organisation to operate ensuring the ALS runs smoothly, so that decisions and actions are clear and understandable to the community it serves.
Bunja Smith
Who are you, where are you from, and who is your mob?
I am a recognised Elder from the Walbanga and Murramerang people who are a part of the Greater Yuin nation from the south coast of NSW. I have a diverse working history and possess a strong skill set that would be of benefit to the ALS.
Where do you live and what are your connections to your local community?
I live in Batemans Bay and have a strong connection to my country and community by continuing to practice our culture on the mountains and seaways of the land we call home. I am a member of the LALC and use and support our local AMS. I am called upon to provide Welcome to Countries for events in my region.
How do your professional experiences and skills relate to the work of the ALS?
I am a leader with a proven track record of representing and advocating for my people at all levels of Government. I have the skill set to contribute to the strategic concepts of the ALS to add value as a member.
What knowledge and perspectives would you bring as an ALS member?
I have knowledge of: the criminal justice system, government funding models and ways of working, Human resources, Strong Governance principles, politics, leadership, the politics of health and lived experience.
My perspective is to use this knowledge to provide guidance and direction to the ALS to overcome the challenges we face as a people and an organisation.
What principles of good governance do you believe are most important to ALS? / Why does good governance matter?
Honesty and integrity. Valuing the other members. Having the courage to say when things are not right. Having your say and putting your point of view while still being able to accept the majority decision.
It goes straight to the heart of functionality. Without good/strong governance we have anarchy.
Is there anything else you want to tell community about why you want to be a member and why they should vote for you?
I have been a member and director of the ALS in the past and have a strong understanding of the organisation and its challenges.