- Twelve Aboriginal leaders appointed to provide culturally informed advice
- Members represent metropolitan, regional, and remote Western Australia
- Committee supports appropriate and responsive justice outcomes for Aboriginal people
The Cook Labor Government has appointed 12 Aboriginal men and women from across Western Australia to the Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee (AJAC) for its 2026 term.
AJAC provides independent cultural advice and guidance to the Department of Justice on matters affecting Aboriginal communities.
The committee helps ensure the justice system is fair, culturally informed, and responsive to the lived experience of Aboriginal people.
Newly appointed members Dylan McCarthy, Raylene Button, Jamie Strickland, and Makalla Skonis are joined by reappointed members including Jean O'Reeri, Henry Lockyer, Daisy Ward, Elizabeth Ellis, Justin Kickett, Amanda King, George Hayden, and Joslyn Eades-Tass.
Established in 2021, AJAC comprises Aboriginal representatives connected to metropolitan, regional, and remote areas across Western Australia.
The committee plays a key role in strengthening relationships between the justice system and Aboriginal communities.
AJAC also supports the Department of Justice in progressing justice targets under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.
It reports directly to the Director General Kylie Maj, who is the Committee's Chair, and briefs the Attorney General and Corrective Services Minister.
The Department of Justice's acting executive director for Aboriginal Justice Transformation Trent Davies has been appointed as secretariat of the AJAC.
The appointments have commenced with the first quarterly meeting scheduled for later this month.
For more information, visit: https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-justice/aboriginal-justice-advisory-committee-0
As stated by Attorney General Dr Tony Buti:
"I congratulate the leaders appointed to the Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee and thank them for their commitment to improving justice outcomes.
"Cultural knowledge and lived experience from Aboriginal communities are essential to building a fair, safe, and just system for everyone.
"By embedding Aboriginal voices into decision-making, we can strengthen trust in the justice system and deliver lasting, meaningful change."
As stated by Corrective Services Minister Paul Papalia:
"AJAC members bring deep cultural knowledge and regional insight that helps the Department of Justice better support Aboriginal communities.
"The committee's advice is critical to addressing complex issues including youth justice, housing, homelessness, and preventing deaths in custody.
"This work aligns with our commitment to Closing the Gap and delivering culturally responsive justice services across Western Australia."
As stated by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch:
"I wish the newly appointed Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee members every success as they take on this important role ensuring justice policy is informed by the lived realities of Aboriginal people across the State.
"It is pleasing to see strong regional representation on AJAC so that decisions about policy development are shaped by Aboriginal people who understand what's happening in their own communities and can advocate for place-based approaches to shape a more responsive and culturally informed justice system."
