ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks has announced the appointment of Kelly Williams to the role of Director First Nations Strategy.

Kelly, a Bundjalung woman from Northern NSW, is the first Indigenous woman to join the ABC Leadership Team. She has worked at the ABC for more than 36 years and is passionate about creating pathways to senior management and editorial roles for Indigenous and diverse employees. 

Previously, Head of Indigenous, Diversity & Inclusion, Kelly has co-ordinated the ABC’s last three Reconciliation Action Plans and the 2023-2026 Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Plan and lead the strategic partnerships between the ABC and First Nations Media Australia and First Languages Australia. 

She was appointed Acting Director last October and her responsibilities include developing the plan to implement actions in response to Dr Terri Janke’s Listen Loudly, Act Strongly report.

Kelly Williams: “There are many people who have contributed to the development of this important role of Director First Nations Strategy.

 “I am passionate about continuing that contribution and am excited to be working with Hugh and the Leadership Team to deliver the ‘Listen Loudly, Act Strongly’ implementation plan. 

“This will include a strong and ambitious Indigenous Employment Strategy for the ABC that delivers well defined and supported career pathways to senior management and editorial roles for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees.”

Hugh Marks: “Kelly has made a huge contribution to the ABC over more than three decades and will be a valuable voice on its Leadership Team.

“She will play a key role continuing to build on the significant change underway at the ABC to improve our workplaces and fully represent the Australian community.”

“I look forward to working with Kelly in realising her ambition to deliver real and lasting outcomes from her work.”