Dr Chris Sarra welcomed as Director-General

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Deputy Premier Jackie Trad today welcomed the appointment of Dr Chris Sarra as Director-General of the Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships (DATSIP).

The Premier said the appointment follows a national recruitment search and merit-based process.

“Dr Sarra is highly regarded for his work in pursuing more positive and productive outcomes for Indigenous communities, Ms Palaszczuk said.

“His notable career commenced as the first Aboriginal principal of Cherbourg State School, leading a high performing school and community team which dramatically transformed school attendance, literacy and numeracy outcomes.”

Deputy Premier Jackie Trad said Dr Sarra is a highly regarded executive and brings significant experience to the Director-General role.

“A proud Queenslander, Aboriginal man, and educator, Dr Sarra has dedicated his career to influencing policy reform in education and beyond,” Ms Trad said.

“He is currently Professor of Education at the University of Canberra and Founding Director of Strong Smart Solutions.

“The recipient of many accolades, Dr Sarra been recognised for his contribution, commitment and vision both nationally and internationally.

“I know that he is excited about the opportunity to work with all DATSIP staff and to lead this important Agency on behalf of the Palaszczuk Government and in the interests of First Nations Queenslanders.

“Dr Sarra will commence his role in August.

“I’d also like to thank and acknowledge the outstanding contribution of Ms Tammy Williams who has been acting in the role during the recruitment process.

“Tammy is a woman of great vision and intellect and I look forward to continuing to work with her going forward.”

ENDS

Media contact: Clare Manton 0432 446 268

BIOGRAPHY

Dr Chris Sarra, Director-General, Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships

Dr Sarra is highly regarded for his work in pursuing more positive outcomes for Indigenous communities.

He was the first Aboriginal principal of Cherbourg State School, leading a team which dramatically transformed school attendance, literacy and numeracy outcomes.

A proud Queenslander, Aboriginal man, and educator, Dr Sarra has dedicated his career to influencing policy reform in education and beyond. Having led positive change and the pursuit of excellence in education, he has continued to influence policy reform through the establishment of the Stronger Smarter Institute.

Dr Sarra is currently a Professor of Education at the University of Canberra and Founding Director of Strong Smart Solutions.

Dr Sarra has been recognised for his contribution, commitment and vision both nationally and internationally.

He has served on several boards including as Chair of the Stronger Smarter Institute, Co-Chair of the Prime Minister’s Indigenous Advisory Committee, Commissioner of Australian Rugby League Commission, Cowboys NRL House and Queensland Performing Arts Centre Trust.

His formal qualifications include a Diploma of Teaching, a Bachelor of Education, Master of Education, PhD in Psychology with Murdoch University and an Executive Masters in Public Administration from the Australia New Zealand School of Government.