Whadjuk Corporation appoints new chairman
Honoured to be appointed
“I am deeply committed to serving the Whadjuk people, strengthening our relationships with stakeholders, and ensuring the work of this corporation delivers real and lasting outcomes for our families,” Mr Garlett said.
“A key priority for me as Chair is establishing clear accountability at the Board level. To support this, I have directed that forensic audits be undertaken for every year of the corporation’s operation, back to its establishment. This is about transparency, good governance and ensuring we are accountable to our members.”
Mr Garlett said he has trust and confidence in the Board and the decisions currently being made.
“I have full trust and confidence in the Board and in the decisions we are making together. We are united in our intent to strengthen this organisation and to act in the best interests of Whadjuk people.”
Positive move forward
“I fully support Leon’s leadership as CEO and the operational decisions being made under his guidance. Those decisions are strengthening the organisation and guiding Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation toward a positive and sustainable future.”
Mr Ruri welcomed Mr Garlett’s appointment as Chairperson and acknowledged the Board’s collective role.
“I congratulate Colin on his appointment as Chair and welcome his leadership,” Mr Ruri said.
“I have strong belief in the Board as a whole and in its commitment to delivering the right outcomes for Whadjuk community and our stakeholders. Together, we remain focused on governance, accountability and progress.”
What is the Whadjuk Corporation
- Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation was established as part of the historic South West Native Title Settlement between the Noongar people and the Western Australian Government. As the prescribed body corporate representing the Whadjuk people its purpose is to work for the social, cultural and economic wellbeing of the Whadjuk Noongar community.
- The corporation emerged from a long struggle by Noongar elders and leaders to achieve recognition of Whadjuk people’s traditional ownership and custodianship of Whadjuk boodja (Country). The Whadjuk Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA), signed in 2022 as part of the wider Settlement, provides a platform for Whadjuk people to fulfil cultural obligations to look after and make decisions about ancestral lands and waters.
Mr Garlett’s appointment, the Corporation said, reflects the Board’s collective commitment to strong governance, cultural leadership and clear accountability in advancing outcomes for Whadjuk Noongar people.