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A woman of influence: Ms Pat Anderson AO
supplied by Lowitja Institute 18 October 2015
M
s Pat Anderson AO was announced the winner of the Public policy category in the 2015 Australian Financial Review and Westpac 100 Women of Influence Awards. Ms Anderson, who is the chairperson of the Lowitja Institute, was recognised for her outstanding contribution to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing. An Alyawarre woman known nationally and internationally as a powerful advocate for disadvantaged people, Ms Anderson stated: “The rights and welfare of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have been central to my long career in education, primary health care, health research, early childhood development, violence against women and children, and, more broadly, the public policy implications of the social determinants of health.” Ms Anderson has played a leading national role in building collaborative relationships between researchers, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, policymakers and health service providers, and much of her career has focused on strategic campaigns that have successfully changed the national agenda of the day. “I am honoured to receive this recognition together with some outstanding Australian women. I also take this opportunity
“I am honoured to receive this recognition together with some outstanding Australian women,” said award recipient Pat Anderson. Image. Lowitja Institute.
to celebrate the significant contribution that many strong, proud and hard-working women are making every day to their communities around the country,” Ms Anderson said. Lowitja Institute CEO, Mr Romlie Mokak, said, “As an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation working for the health and wellbeing for Australia’s First Peoples, it is our privilege to have Ms Anderson’s wisdom and experience in advocacy, collaboration and governance lead our Board.” In its fourth year, the 100 Women
of Influence Awards celebrates outstanding Australian women who, through their achievements and contribution, have had an impact within one of 10 categories. The categories are: Board/Management, Public Policy, Diversity, Business Enterprise, Young Leader, Global, Local/Regional, Innovation, Culture and Social Enterprise. Entrants into the awards were assessed by a panel of esteemed judges and have been recognised based on their outstanding ability to demonstrate vision, leadership, innovation and action in and beyond their fields.
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