01 June 2026
This prestigious honour recognises Tanja’s longstanding leadership and contribution to the mental health and wellbeing sector, including her work across mental health, wellbeing, alcohol and other drugs, and suicide prevention in Queensland.
A proud Jaru and Bunuba woman (Kimberley, Western Australia), Tanja was born and raised on the lands of the Kalkadoon people (Mount Isa, Queensland). She is a clinical psychologist and mid-career researcher with expertise in mental health, social and emotional wellbeing, suicide prevention, and trauma-informed practice, including supporting workplaces to bring cultural and clinical knowledges together.
Tanja is a member of AEDRTC’s First Nations Advisory Group, Board Director at Black Dog Institute, and CEO of Thirrili - Indigenous Suicide Postvention Service, Australia’s only Indigenous led and controlled suicide postvention service.
Tanja’s work has made a meaningful difference to the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Through her advocacy and leadership, she has helped strengthen services and drive positive, lasting change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the broader community.
We are grateful for the knowledge, experience, and guidance Tanja brings to the AEDRTC First Nations Advisory Group and are pleased to see her contributions recognised through this well-deserved honour.
