The NSW Government would like to acknowledge the passing of prominent Aboriginal activists Aunty Ann Weldon and Dr Naomi Mayers (Aunty Nay).
Aunty Ann played a crucial role in advancing and improving the lives of Aboriginal people in NSW, she was well known for establishing many services in Redfern including the NSW Aboriginal Legal Service and the Aboriginal Children's Service. She was the first CEO of NSWALC, the longest serving full time Chairperson of the NSW Aboriginal Housing Office Board and a member of the Metro Local Aboriginal Land Council.
In 2025 Aunty Ann was also awarded the prestigious Order of Australia thanks to the tireless work in the housing and disability sector, as well as her role in the union movement alongside the Public Service Association of NSW.
Aunty Nay along with Aunty Ann helped establish the Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) which became Australia's first Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service.
Thanks to her experience in nursing Aunty Nay was appointed as AMS Redfern's first Administrator in 1972, and continued to work to uplift the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people through the AMS serving as their CEO until she retired in 2017.
She was also awarded the Order of Australia in 1984 in recognition of her services to Aboriginal welfare.
These pioneering women dedicated their lives to uplifting and empowering the Aboriginal community, and their impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to their families, loved ones and all who were touched by them.
