Lea Gage

Accomplished leader with 20+ years of experience in education, social services, and Indigenous community development. Proven expertise in strategic leadership, cultural governance, and relationship management. Passionate about creating intergenerational impact and strengthening cultural connections. Robust background in directing and managing large-scale operations, driving success through strategic planning and execution. Skilled at implementing innovative solutions to enhance productivity and operational effectiveness, fostering teamwork and adapting to evolving business needs. Experienced in strategic planning and project management, utilizing leadership skills to drive team performance and operational excellence. Track record of delivering high-impact results through innovative problem-solving and effective communication.

• Ensure the principles identified in the NSW Government Architect Office' Connecting with Country Framework, the NSW Government Aboriginal Affairs Ochre Plan, the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals & other relevant documents are adopted & integrated into projects.
• Worked closely with many external stakeholders to ensure project success.
• Created the Roadmap for Aboriginal Data Sovereignty in NSW with NSW Treasury and gave robust policy advice that support Indigenous communities.
• Developed and wrote the ARP: ‘Measuring and Evaluating the CFD’s approaches and effectiveness of long terms outcomes in First Nation Communities’.
• Project managed the First Nation Related Victims Homicide Project in conjunction with Department of Justice and Queensland Victim Assist to enable more efficient and equitable services for First Nation peoples.
• Worked closely with Boonah Aboriginal Consortium ; to promote going back to country for healing for those who suffer from generational trauma and are victims of serious crimes.
• Wrote submissions and advocate for of legislative reviews for victims’ rights, and serious crimes.
• As Regional Marketing Manager in 2013, achieved all marketing targets through effective planning, marketing, budgeting and buy-in from staff to deliver on marketing campaigns.
• Presented research at the 2014 World Indigenous Peoples Conference on Education (WIPCE), in Hawaii.
• Research papers published in the TWoA Research Journal and presented at various national conferences on safety and wellness in the workplace.
  

• First Nation Governance Board Member, Deception Bay State School, 2023-01-01, Present
• First Nations Group Member, Deception Bay State School, 2023-01-01, Present
• Board Member, Mangaroa Ohutu Incorporated, 2013-01-01, Present
• First Nations Committee Member, Australian Evaluation Society, 2020-01-01, Present
• Apanui Justice Governance Board Member, New Zealand, 2023-01-01, Present
• Trustee, Otaumaha Lands Trust, 2023-01-01, Present

• Intrepid traveler
• Active supporter of Indigenous and Human rights
• Enjoys tramping, music, and reading