Maria Watson-Trudgett – Director

BSocSC

Maria is a Koori woman of the Wiradyuri people. She is Cultural Consultant and Aboriginal artist. Maria has a Bachelor of Social Science – majoring in Community Welfare and Human Services, with 30 years’ experience in community and stakeholder engagement. Maria provides First Nations strategic advisory services and subject matter expertise into the development and implementation of First Nations Strategies and programs, including strategic direction, planning, and implementation.

Maria has successfully guided national organisations through their cultural capability development, by creating and implementing strategic frameworks, Reconciliation Action Plans, including HR policy review and redevelopment, cultural terminology review of documentation, programs and websites, culturally appropriate content and resources creation, community engagement and service delivery, and all programs and initiatives pertaining to First Nations peoples and communities.

Notably, Maria has won several awards and achievements for her artwork, including exhibiting in Parliament House and national galleries. Her artworks are featured on national book covers, RAP documents, NAIDOC merchandise, and her works adorn the walls of organisations and private collectors – both national and international.