Jillian Collard

Jillian Collard is a proud Noongar woman with cultural connections to Whadjuk and Ballardong Country. With more than 25 years of experience across government, community and Aboriginal affairs, she is recognised for strengthening Aboriginal voices, advancing culturally informed decision-making and creating practical pathways to improved outcomes for Aboriginal people across Western Australia.

A significant focus of Jillian’s work has been the development of a family-centred assistance system for disadvantaged families. This work includes a specialised commitment to highly vulnerable Aboriginal mothers and their children, supporting them through culturally grounded, strengths-based pathways designed to rebuild capability, strengthen family stability and restore greater control over their lives and futures.

Throughout her career, Jillian has led and contributed to major initiatives that elevate Aboriginal perspectives within policy, program design, organisational governance and service delivery. She has established strong and respectful relationships between Aboriginal communities, government, industry and community organisations, helping diverse stakeholders move beyond consultation towards genuine collaboration, shared responsibility and sustainable outcomes.

As a member of the Heritage Council, Jillian contributes to strategic priorities concerning Aboriginal people, cultural heritage and places of significance. Her work supports the protection of cultural heritage, greater Aboriginal participation in heritage governance and the proper recognition of cultural knowledge, responsibility to Country and community interests within strategic decision-making.

At Amity National, Jillian provides cultural and strategic leadership grounded in integrity, respect and accountability. She helps shape the organisation’s approach to community engagement, partnership development, cultural governance and social impact, ensuring that its activities remain responsive to the people and communities they are intended to serve.

Jillian continues to champion positive change by strengthening the systems, relationships and opportunities that enable Aboriginal people and families to thrive. Her leadership reflects Amity National’s commitment to culturally informed, community-centred and commercially disciplined action that creates enduring value for current and future generations.