Lindon Coombes

Lindon Coombes is an Industry Professor at the Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). He holds leadership roles as Director of Jumbunna Research and Co-Chair of Reconciliation NSW. With over 20 years in Aboriginal Affairs, his career spans roles in government, Indigenous organizations, and academia. Coombes earned a Diploma in Aboriginal Studies (University of Newcastle, 1992–1993) and a Bachelor of Arts (UNSW, 1994–1996).

Research Focus: Coombes specializes in Indigenous policy, self-determination, criminology, and community-based research. His work addresses systemic racism, treaty processes, and justice reforms. Recent projects include anti-racism policy reviews, submissions on deaths in custody, and treaty frameworks.

Funded Research: Over 23 funded projects include studies on anti-racism in universities, Indigenous child welfare systems, and justice reinvestment. Notable grants include projects with the Australian Human Rights Commission, NSW Department of Education, and the Goodes O’Loughlin Foundation.

Leadership & Service: Previously CEO of Tranby Aboriginal College and National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples, Coombes advises on Indigenous governance. He contributes to The Conversation on topics like Charles Perkins’ legacy and state treaty processes.