Robert Pocock has been appointed permanently as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority (AAPA).
Mr Pocock is the first Aboriginal CEO of the organisation.
This refreshed leadership approach will position the AAPA for growth and strengthen its success in supporting development while protecting sacred sites.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is proud to announce the appointment of Robert Pocock as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority, the first Aboriginal to lead the organisation.
After stepping into the role of Interim CEO in August 2025 following the departure of Dr Ben Scambary, Mr Pocock has now been permanently appointed to the position.
Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment Joshua Burgoyne said it was a proud moment for the AAPA to have their first Aboriginal CEO.
"I recently attended the 152nd AAPA Board Meeting where I informed the Chair and the Board of Mr Pocock's appointment, which was well-supported," said Mr Burgoyne.
"I look forward to working with Mr Pocock and the AAPA Board to protect Aboriginal sacred sites and enable responsible economic development now and into the future."
Mr Pocock has previously worked for the AAPA as Director of Policy and Governance in 2020 and 2021 and has been the AAPA representative on the Northern Territory Heritage Council.
He has more than 20 years' experience across the legal sector, service delivery and public policy and has held various leadership positions throughout his career, most recently as Director of the Aboriginal Justice Unit within the NT Attorney-General's Department.
"Mr Pocock brings extensive experience to this role, and his prior work with the organisation positions him as a strong and natural fit," said Mr Burgoyne.
"This leadership transition reflects our government's commitment to a year of growth, certainty and security for the Northern Territory."
Mr Pocock said he was honoured to be appointed the first Aboriginal CEO of the AAPA.
"The Authority plays an essential role in protecting our most sacred places while enabling development," Mr Pocock said.
"I look forward to working with the AAPA Board and the dedicated AAPA team to build on the Authority's strong legacy of supporting both Aboriginal culture and Territory growth."
