Lynette Riley

Professor Lynette Riley AO is a Wiradjuri and Gamilaroi woman and Chair of Aboriginal Education & Indigenous Studies at the University of Sydney's Sydney School of Education and Social Work. With over 40 years in education and advocacy, she has pioneered Indigenous curriculum development, student support programs, and reconciliation initiatives. A key figure in establishing Aboriginal presence in higher education, she co-founded the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group and led initiatives like the Oorala Centre at UNE. Her research focuses on Indigenous rights, cultural education, and health equity, with notable contributions to community-led research methodologies.

Education: PhD (Australian Catholic University), extensive career spanning primary schools, TAFE, and university roles. Current projects include Wiradjuri language workbooks and studies on Indigenous health outcomes.

Research interests emphasize cultural preservation, anti-racism, and wellbeing. Over 150 publications include works on Indigenous pedagogy, health disparities, and art as cultural expression. Awards include the Order of Australia for her transformative contributions to education and reconciliation.

Grants include projects on foster care cultural connections and healthcare decision-making. Advises Amy Davidson on Aboriginal community-led research. Active in reconciliation leadership at local and state levels.

Her art collaborations, such as the Dhaga Ngiyanhi Ngan.Girra exhibition, reflect her commitment to preserving Wiradjuri heritage through creative mediums.