An experienced and passionate Indigenous leader from the Kimberley region in Western Australia has been appointed to a key government board to help improve the lives of First Nations people across the state.

The advice and insight of Denise Andrews, who has recently joined the WA Labor Government's Aboriginal Strategic Advisory Group, will help shape the development and delivery of strategies and policies to enhance support and opportunities for Indigenous people and Aboriginal communities across the state.

The two-year appointment confirmed earlier this month by Sabine Winton MLA, WA minister for early childhood education, childhood protection, prevention of family and domestic violence, and community services, was an honour for Ms Andrews, who grew up in Fitzroy Valley and still lives there, in the small community of Junjuwa.

"I come from Fitzroy Crossing, a small town where I am still connected to the five language groups (of the Bunuba, Wangkatjungka, Walmajarri, Gooniyandi and Nyikina people)," Ms Andrews told our publication.

"I have grown up with a deep understanding of my culture, and the daily realities my people face."

Ms Andrews said she was honoured to join the advisory group, and the appointment would help her advocacy of "meaningful policies" that align with the needs and values of communities.

"My main goal is to make sure Aboriginal voices are front and centre in decisions that impact our communities," she said.

"I want to work on initiatives that address both immediate concerns, and long-term goals."

She said these included better access for Indigenous people to health services, the development of more economic opportunities, and ensuring cultural preservation.

Considering cultural and historical sensitives when developing and implementing Indigenous policies was also key to their success across communities.

"Trauma is something that affects every aspect of our lives, and it's often an invisible burden our communities carry," Ms Andrews said.

"I believe it's crucial to take a trauma-informed approach in everything we do.

"This means understanding the impact of past and ongoing traumas, and ensuring that policies and services are shaped with empathy and cultural sensitivity.

"I'm passionate about creating spaces where people feel safe and supported, and I hope to bring that awareness to our work on the advisory group."

Ms Andrews said her role was not about just influencing policy, but creating policies that would have lasting and positive effects for Indigenous communities across the state.

"This role is incredibly meaningful to me," she said.

"This is a chance to help bridge the gap between government decision-makers and Aboriginal communities.

"For me, it's not just about the policies, but about creating a legacy that benefits future generations.

"I want to pave the way for our young people so they can grow up with more opportunities, a strong sense of identity, and pride in who they are."

Currently a director and chairperson of Karrayili Adult Education Centre Aboriginal Corporation, Ms Andrews has also been a former Shire of West Kimberley councillor and a director and chairperson of the Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation in Fitzroy Valley.

"My experience has taught me a lot about governance and the importance of local protocols," she said.

"I know firsthand the importance of having our communities' voices included and respected, and I'm dedicated to bringing that knowledge to the advisory group.

"I will bring grassroots knowledge to the state government, to foster positive and impactful change for our Aboriginal communities, building a stronger future together.

"I'm committed to working hard to help make that vision a reality."