Koori Mail’s CEO Naomi Moran appointed as NSW commissioner

THE NSW Government has appointed three commissioners to consult with Aboriginal people on their desire for a treaty process and to consult with communities across NSW.

A 12-month consultation period will determine whether Aboriginal communities want an agreement-making process with the government and what form that process might take.

The open, competitive selection led by an independent Aboriginal advisory panel appointed former Senator Aden Ridgeway, academic Todd Fernando and Koori Mail newspaper CEO and Bundjalung woman Naomi Moran to a two-year fixed term.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin welcomed the three appointments and congratulated Ms Moran in particular.

“This is a strong panel of leaders, and I welcome the appointment of Ms Moran, who has shown her strong community leadership as CEO of the Koori Mail newspaper and its remarkable flood recovery effort,” Ms Saffin said.

“Naomi is known for her strong advocacy for Aboriginal communities and her support for indigenous youth programs. Our community is indebted to her for her service and passion.

“Naomi will bring her leadership, passion, communication skills and strong advocacy for the Aboriginal community to the role of commissioner.

“Former Senator Aden Ridgeway also has local connections, as a former student of St John’s College, Woodlawn.”

NSW is home to the largest Aboriginal population in Australia. Before delivering their findings, the commissioners will engage with Aboriginal communities across metropolitan, rural, regional and remote parts of NSW.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said the appointment was central to listening to Aboriginal people on treaty and agreement-making.

“The commissioners have been appointed following a rigorous process that attracted strong candidates,” Mr Harris said.

“We get better outcomes when we listen to the needs of Aboriginal people and communities. We must ensure Aboriginal people have a direct say on matters that affect them.”

Community consultations will begin in 2025.

For more information, visit nsw.gov.au/nsw-government/treaty-consultation