7 November, 2024

The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) is pleased to inform the Land Rights Network that Ms Heidi Hardy has been appointed NSWALC Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) following the forthcoming departure of CEO Yuseph Deen from the organisation.

Heidi Hardy is a proud descendant of the Ngemba people from Brewarrina and Ualaroi peoples of Angledool, both located in North West New South Wales.

With over 17 years of experience in the government sector in Crown Lands, Heidi has extensive expertise in land rights, native title, and advocacy for the rights of First Nations people. As NSWALC’s Executive Director of Community Outcomes, Heidi has provided strategic advice to Local Aboriginal Land Councils concerning land acquisition and activation matters. She also played a pivotal role in implementing the Community Outcomes Delivery Model, which focuses on fostering an economically independent and sustainable Land Rights Network. Heidi believes that learning from the Network’s experience and insights will help ensure that communities are effectively represented and their needs adequately addressed.

The NSWALC Chairperson Raymond Kelly says Heidi demonstrates all the hallmarks of a quality leader. 

“As evidenced by her consistent performance in her current role, Heidi is well respected both internally and external to our organisation. Council has observed that Heidi cultivates a high level of trust amongst her work colleagues and the Land Rights Network in general.

Council is looking forward to working closely with Heidi to continue our progress on our overall strategic commitments.”

Heidi Hardy will commence in the Interim CEO role on Monday, 18 November 2024. Her appointment will be for an initial period of three months to align with NSWALC’s CEO recruitment.