Damon Goolagong
Mount Annan , NSW,NSW
Summary
Dedicated and community-focused professional with experience across Aboriginal engagement, youth support, case management, and event coordination within government, education, and community settings. Skilled in building strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, delivering culturally safe programs, and advocating for positive outcomes for Aboriginal peoples. Demonstrated ability to lead initiatives such as cultural information sessions, youth programs, and community events while also bringing practical experience as a former rugby league player and carpentry apprentice. Recognised for strong teamwork, resilience, and the ability to adapt and thrive in challenging environments.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Aboriginal Liaison Officer
Parliament NSW
10.2024 - Current
- Developed strong working relationships with external partners, strengthening collaboration on joint initiatives.
- Established effective communication channels by collaborating with various departments and stakeholders.
- Coordinated efforts between teams to achieve project objectives within tight deadlines.
- Served as a key point of contact for cross-functional teams during complex projects or initiatives.
- Organised and delivered cultural information sessions for Parliament staff to build awareness and lay the foundation for the development of NSW Parliament’s first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)
- Organised successful events by coordinating logistics, managing budgets, and overseeing promotional activities.
- Helped the LA Committees and Aboriginal communities by coordinating cultural protocols, including arranging Welcomes to Country with respected Elders, and supporting the inclusion of Aboriginal voices and evidence in committee hearings.
- Led the coordination of a Native Food Experience at Parliament, showcasing Indigenous culture, strengthening stakeholder relationships, and fostering cultural awareness among staff and Members
Senior Youth Worker
Eleanor Duncan
01.2024 - 10.2024
- Designed curricula tailored specifically for diverse populations, ensuring accessibility for all participants regardless of background or ability level.
- Promoted a safe and inclusive environment by addressing conflicts and facilitating open communication among participants.
- Aligned programming with best practices in youth development theory, resulting in higher rates of participant satisfaction and success.
- Implemented a data-driven approach to track participant outcomes, informing ongoing adjustments in service delivery models.
Aboriginal Engagement Officer
Griffith University
01.2023 - 12.2023
- Developed and delivered outreach programs to inspire and encourage Aboriginal high school students to pursue higher education.
- Built and maintained relationships with schools, community organisations, and families to promote pathways to university.
- Organised on-campus experiences, cultural days, and workshops to familiarise students with university life.
- Coordinated mentoring and support programs pairing Aboriginal students with current university students and alumni.
- Collaborated with academic and professional staff to create culturally safe and supportive learning environments.
- Represented the university at community events, careers expos, and school visits to increase Aboriginal student engagement.
- Supported the retention and success of Aboriginal students by linking them with tutoring, wellbeing, and cultural support services.
Homelessness Case Worker
Eleanor Duncan
01.2022 - 12.2022
- Provided case management support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, including assessment, planning, and referrals
- Advocated for clients to access housing, healthcare, and social services.
- Built strong, trusting relationships with clients to support engagement and long-term outcomes.
- Applied trauma-informed and culturally safe practices to support diverse client groups, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
- Contributed to service development by identifying gaps, recommending improvements, and participating in team meetings and training.
Carpenter Apprentice
Donnelly Construction
01.2020 - 01.2022
- Assisted in the construction, assembly, and installation of timber structures, furniture, and fixtures under supervision
- Learned and applied safe work practices, including proper use of tools, machinery, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Measured, cut, and shaped timber materials accurately to meet project specifications.
- Maintained a clean and organised worksite to ensure safety and efficiency.
- Developed practical problem-solving skills to address construction challenges and adjust plans as needed.
- Applied time management and reliability to meet project deadlines and work schedules.
Rugby League Player
South Sydney Rabbitohs
10.2015 - 12.2019
- Teamwork & Collaboration – Worked closely with teammates to achieve shared goals and adapt strategies under pressure.
- Leadership – Took initiative on and off the field, mentoring junior players and leading by example during training and matches.
- Discipline & Commitment – Maintained rigorous training schedules, diets, and performance standards over a sustained period.
- Time Management – Balanced training, travel, matches, and personal commitments effectively.
- Goal Setting & Achievement – Set and pursued performance targets, contributing to team success and personal growth.
- Adaptability & Problem Solving – Adjusted tactics and strategies in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
- Health & Fitness Knowledge – Applied understanding of fitness, nutrition, and recovery to maintain peak performance.
Education
Certificate - CPR
Reachfortraining
05-2025
Certificate - Effective Casework And Case Management
ACWA
02-2024
Certificate - Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Psychwire
01-2024
Certificate - Motivational Interviewing
Psychwire
01-2024
High School Diploma -
Gorokan High School
Gorokan, NSW11-2014
Skills
- Verbal and written communication
- Team collaboration
- Media releases and interviews
- High-pressure environments
- Activity planning
- Community outreach
Timeline
Aboriginal Liaison Officer
Parliament NSW
10.2024 - Current
Senior Youth Worker
Eleanor Duncan
01.2024 - 10.2024
Aboriginal Engagement Officer
Griffith University
01.2023 - 12.2023
Homelessness Case Worker
Eleanor Duncan
01.2022 - 12.2022
Carpenter Apprentice
Donnelly Construction
01.2020 - 01.2022
Rugby League Player
South Sydney Rabbitohs
10.2015 - 12.2019
Certificate - CPR
Reachfortraining
Certificate - Effective Casework And Case Management
ACWA
Certificate - Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Psychwire
Certificate - Motivational Interviewing
Psychwire
High School Diploma -
Gorokan High School
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