We are delighted to welcome Leanne Woods as our new Senior Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisor.

Leanne is a proud Whadjuk and Wongi woman with connections to the Ballardong people. She brings extensive experience in education, strategy, and partnerships, along with a strong rapport with the local Aboriginal community.

Previously, Leanne worked at Water Corporation as the Lead – Cultural Educator. In this role, she led Nyoongar Language Workshops, gave talks for staff, and co-hosted the National Reconciliation Week breakfast.

Before her tenure at Water Corporation, Leanne served as the First Nations Engagement Coordinator for the City of Melville for over ten years.

There, she implemented the City’s progressive Innovate and Stretch Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs), developed their Aboriginal Employment Strategy, and co-chaired the Aboriginal Engagement Networking Meetings for local governments across the state.

At the City of Melville, Leanne collaborated with the City of Cockburn to launch the Let's Talk About Racism workshop series in 2020, in response to the Black Lives Matter movement.

Ultimately, Leanne was recognised for her outstanding contributions to local government through the City of Melville with a WALGA Local Government Distinguished Officer Award in 2023.

When asked about joining the Western Australian Museum, Leanne says “It’s an amazing opportunity to learn and make a bigger difference for my people. I loved coming to the Museum when I was younger with my brothers while my Mum worked at the Perth Aboriginal Medical Service in Beaufort Street. I was fascinated by the displays and completing the information surveys on the little clip boards around the Museum.”