Congratulations to our Deputy Chancellor and Flinders distinguished alumna Leanne Liddle, who has been named the Darwin NAIDOC 2026 Person of the Year. 

A proud Arrernte woman from central Australia, Leanne is a trailblazing leader whose courage and commitment to justice have helped improve the lives of Aboriginal people and communities through reform across policing, human rights and public policy. 

The award recognises more than three decades of leadership dedicated to tackling inequality, breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for Aboriginal Australians. 

Leanne has achieved many significant milestones throughout her career. In 1988, she became South Australia’s first Aboriginal policewoman. More recently, as Executive Director of Cultural Reform at the Northern Territory Police Force, she led the development of the organisation’s first Anti-Racism Strategy and Action Plan, helping drive meaningful cultural change and build a more inclusive and respectful future. 

Leanne also serves on the Board of the NT/SA Central Royal Flying Doctor Service and in 2022, she was named Northern Territory Australian of the Year. 

Leanne joined the Flinders Council in 2023 and was appointed Deputy Chancellor in 2025. Reflecting on the role, she said: 

“It’s a privilege to serve a university that is not only deeply committed to student success but is making a real difference to the lives of people across some of the most remote parts of Australia.” 

The Flinders community congratulates Leanne on this outstanding and well-deserved recognition.