The Australian Sustainable Finance Institute has announced Professor Deen Sanders OAM as its new Board Advisor and Cultural Governance and First Nations Leadership Advisor - a decision the organisation says will strengthen First Nations leadership and self-determination within the Australian economy.
ASFI, the peak body for Australia's sustainable finance sector, says the move announced Tuesday aligns with its Reconciliation Action Plan commitment to increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation and leadership across the financial system.
"Our vision for reconciliation is an Australia where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges, priorities, perspectives and voices are elevated within the financial system," the RAP states.
ASFI said Professor Sanders' appointment reinforces its commitment by embedding First Nations leadership, Indigenous Knowledge and economic self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within Australia's financial system - promoting First Nations leadership to "help guide change for mob, by mob".
As a proud Worimi man, a respected cultural leader, and Lead Partner of Integrity at Deloitte Access Economics, Professor Sanders will guide sustainable growth with cultural and ethical purpose - ensuring that decisions are culturally grounded, with care for community and Country.
His appointment reflects a broader shift toward deeper collaboration between the finance sector and First Nations communities. With three decades of experience across regulation, governance and economic policy, combined with a strong cultural foundation, Professor Sanders brings a unique perspective to shaping how finance can better serve people and Country.
Recognised Kabi Kabi Traditional Owner and ASFI Executive Manager for First Nations and Finance, Tyrone Glenbar, said Professor Sanders' appointment marks the next step in advancing First Nations economic inclusion and caring for Country long-term.
"Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples must be at the forefront of decisions that impact Country. We are not only caring for country and revitalising lore, but also unlocking capital and opportunities that can benefit our regions and the Australian economy more broadly," Mr Glenbar said.
"Professor Sanders' leadership will help deepen how finance connects with Nation, community and Country and highlights the constructive role ASFI can play in creating opportunities to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' economic self-determination within Australia's financial system."
Professor Sanders' experience bridges regulatory design, economic insight and systems thinking, bringing Indigenous knowledge and worldviews to inform meaningful systems change. He will provide strategic guidance across ASFI's workstreams, supporting ASFI's mission to build a sustainable, resilient and inclusive financial system.
"I am really excited to be working alongside Deen," Mr Glenbar added. "His mentorship and vision are an incredible source. I'm looking forward to learning from him and collaborating on the work we're driving at ASFI to create meaningful, sustainable change in the finance sector for First Peoples together."
ASFI chief executive Kristy Graham said his appointment strengthens the Institute's ability to connect finance and policy with culture and community, reflecting its broader goal of mobilising capital for climate, nature and social impact.
"Professor Sanders brings a rare combination of governance, cultural and economic expertise. His appointment strengthens ASFI's capacity to deliver practical, credible solutions that support Australia's transition and long-term prosperity," Ms Graham said.
"We're looking forward to working with Deen to bring new approaches and partnerships into our work, turning sustainable finance ambition into practical outcomes that enhance Australia's competitiveness and resilience."
