About me
Challenging the Status Quo in Indigenous Evaluation. As a Noongar/Yamatji Aboriginal man with a profound connection to both my culture and the world of academia, I have spent 30 years navigating the complex landscapes of Aboriginal justice, education, and health. I have witnessed firsthand the widening gap between policy promises and on-the-ground realities for Indigenous communities. Having a footprint in both worlds, I have seen how well-intentioned initiatives can miss the mark when they fail to engage meaningfully with the very people they aim to serve. This has driven my deep interest in evaluation research, particularly in how it can be a powerful tool to ensure that government and industry not only operate in a culturally secure manner but also genuinely contribute to closing the gap. My work has taken me to some of the most isolated and challenging regions in Australia, where I have seen the direct impacts of policy decisions. At this year’s Australian Evaluation Society (AES) Conference in Melbourne, I am eager to connect with fellow evaluators and researchers who share my passion for creating meaningful change. I believe that by combining rigorous evaluation practices with Indigenous ways of knowing, we can forge a path toward more effective and culturally respectful outcomes. If you are interested in exploring how evaluation can better serve Indigenous communities—or if you're simply keen to discuss new ideas and approaches—I look forward to meeting you at the conference.