Staff Group: Our Staff

Ella Syme

Ella was born and raised on Arrernte country and currently resides in Mparntwe (Alice Springs).

Ella has a background in social science and holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Melbourne, where she completed a double major in Anthropology and History (honours).

Before joining AIGI, Ella worked as a writer and content creator.

Abbey Wright

Abbey is a proud Gomeroi woman from Orange (Wiradjuri Country) in NSW. Abbey is working and living in Awabakal country and is passionate about supporting Indigenous empowerment through governance and strength-based approaches to social issues.

Rachael Sutton

Rachael is a social scientist that has experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Central Australia within native title and land rights to produce native title claim research, and advocate for the rights and interests of native title holders and traditional owners. She has also worked with post-determination PBCs with their governance and compliance.

Rachael’s skill set includes field, desktop and archival research, and qualitative research and analysis. She has a particular interest in understanding the forces that drive inequality. Rachael holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Sociology with Anthropology (Honours) from Deakin University and is currently studying a Master of International and Development Economics at the Australian National University.

At AIGI, Rachael is a part of the team reviewing and redeveloping the Indigenous Governance Toolkit.

Elise Lane

Elise is a proud Wiradjuri woman from Central NSW and was born and has spent most of her life in Awabakal country. She is passionate about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander advancement and working to create programs and opportunities that address real world challenges and promote social change.

Jessica Ling

Jessica Ling photo

Jess is a qualified legal professional experienced in prosecuting native title claims in the Federal Court of Australia on behalf of traditional owners.

Collette Brown

Collette’s people are Barada Barna from Central Queensland. Collette comes to AIGI with more than 20 years experience in government and 7 years experience in the mining industry.

Jessica Bulger

Jess is Wiradjuri from Tumut in country NSW and grew up in a big proud Aboriginal family, connected to culture and fortunate enough to witness great Elders and leadership. Jess has based her career on the belief that as Aboriginal people we have always known the solutions for our communities and possess the ability to lead them.