The SWRB SA decisions and actions will impact the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce.
In recognition of this, the Board will establish an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People's Committee (the Committee) to work alongside the functions of registration, quality practice and responding to concerns and reports.
- To collaborate with the Board to foster respect and understanding between the Board and the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander community in South Australia.
- To advise and decide with the Board on matters related to registration, quality practice, and concerns for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
- To consider and provide advice on issues referred to it by the Board to support fair, timely and culturally appropriate outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples affected by the Act.
Responsibilities delegated to the Committee include:
- Consultation with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sector/community on the definition of social work services.
- Decision-making and advice regarding registration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practitioners.
- Decision-making and advice regarding a concern made by or against an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person/organisation to the SWRB.
- Advice regarding code of conduct, competencies and education standards when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culture and history.
April Lawrie
April Lawrie is a proud Aboriginal woman of Mirning/Kokatha heritage with over 30 years of dedicated experience in Aboriginal affairs across South Australia’s public service. April holds a Social Work degree and has worked extensively in community development, child protection, domestic violence, foster care, and youth services in both urban and remote settings.
April was South Australia’s inaugural Commissioner for Aboriginal Children and Young People, advocating for child welfare reform and conducting a landmark Inquiry into Aboriginal child removals.
With a strong commitment to cultural integrity, justice, and self-determination, April champions Aboriginal perspectives in policy, workforce development, and community engagement.
Chrissy McKenzie
Chrissy is a proud Aboriginal woman from Adnyamathanha, Dieri, and Kuyani Nations, bringing over 30 years of social work experience deeply rooted in cultural heritage and community advocacy. Her career spans child protection, healthcare, mental health, and emergency services, with a longstanding commitment to fostering respectful and culturally safe practices for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Chrissy is passionate about bridging collaboration between social work professionals and Aboriginal communities to advance culturally appropriate and equitable outcomes.
Jody Satala
Jody is a proud Aboriginal woman of Barunggam and Bundjalung heritage with 30 years experience in statutory Child Protection. She has developed strong expertise in supporting Aboriginal children, young people, and families, guiding ethical practice and culturally informed decision-making.
Jody has held roles including Principal Aboriginal Consultant, supporting social workers in navigating complex statutory responsibilities with a focus on social justice and positive outcomes for First Nations communities.
Tracey Rigney
Tracey is a proud Aboriginal woman of the Narungga and Ngarrindjeri Nations, with strong affiliations to the Kaurna, Wirangu, and Kokatha Nations of South Australia. Tracey’s work spans over 20 years, supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across all ages, with a focus on social determinants of health, safety, and justice.
Tracey has extensive experience as a social worker in child protection and advocated for culturally responsive approaches, translating complex systems into accessible language for Aboriginal communities.
