Ms Thelma Parker

An accomplished executive leader and proud Waluwarra Wangkayujuru Wangkaymunha woman raised on Kalkadoon Country, Thelma brings 25 years of experience in education, employment and training, along with a strong local knowledge and understanding of State and National priorities. Furthermore, Thelma has undertaken consulting work with the Government and NGOs and has been serving on several State and Territory committees.

Thelma has held several key leadership positions including Colleges Principal, Head of School, Edmund Rice Flexible Learning Centre; Senior Lecturer, Australian Catholic University; Senior Education Officer, at Townsville Catholic Education Office and Director at Barrier Reef Institute of TAFE Townsville. Thelma is also widely considered a subject matter expert in the planning and execution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander programs and has led truth-telling initiatives for over 10,000 participants. Thelma has been awarded the title of Woman of the Year (1998 & 2000), Female of the Year (2003) and NAIDOC Women of the Year (2004) and is enthusiastic about pursuing continuous learning and professional development by currently studying for a Doctor in Philosophy in Cultural Humanity.

Thelma’s aspirations to make a meaningful contribution to her cultural heritage will be key to continuing our work in building a strong sense of belonging and inclusivity that works respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, staff and communities in teaching, learning, research and collaboration. Thelma is currently the Chairperson of Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA), where she has been instrumental in driving innovative education programs focused on First Nations perspectives and engagement that empower disadvantaged young people and young people in remote communities to pursue education.