Company Directors of the Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT) have appointed a new Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson to lead the organisation's governance and strategic direction.
ALS NSW/ACT Company Directors and Members have also been appointed to serve for a three-year term. As an Aboriginal community-controlled organisation, the ALS Board is comprised of Aboriginal people who are elected by their own communities, plus up to two honorary directors who may be appointed in recognition of their skills and experience.
On Monday the ALS NSW/ACT congratulated Keith Morgan on his appointment to the role of Chairperson and Patricia Laurie on her election as Deputy Chairperson.
Mr Morgan is a proud Wiradjuri and Ngunnawal man originally from Narrandera and now living in Manar. He has worked in government agencies and Aboriginal community-controlled organisations for many years, including serving as the last ATSIC Chairperson for the Queanbeyan region.
ALS NSW/ACT said Mr Morgan brings qualifications and expertise by virtue of a Masters degree in Indigenous health, and a diploma in Aboriginal health and community development, and business management, to the ALS Board.
"I am committed to working towards increasing legal representation and support for our mob. I look forward to leading with transparency, integrity and accountability," Mr Morgan said.
Ms Laurie is a proud Yaegl and Bundjalung woman from the NSW Far North Coast. She also has Gumbaynggirr and Walbunja Yuin ancestry on her grandfather's side. She is a Yamba woman who currently resides in Grafton.
Ms Laurie has extensive knowledge and has worked in Aboriginal community-based organisations, Aboriginal community justice, Corrective Services and Department of Immigration.
Ms Laurie is also a previous North Coast Regional Aboriginal Councillor of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council and serves on other councils and committees. A nationally accredited trainer and assessor, she has set up and worked in Aboriginal organisations and has a focus on compliance.
"I am committed to bringing back positive outcomes in ensuring our mobs are represented in the judicial system. Bringing back faith and engagement to communities and our people," she said on Monday.