21/01/2026
MEDIA STATEMENT
Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation Announces Appointment of New Chairperson and Key Governance Actions.
Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation (WAC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Colin Garlett as the new Chairperson of the Corporation, effective immediately.
Mr Garlettโs appointment reflects the Boardโs collective commitment to strong governance, cultural leadership and clear accountability in advancing outcomes for Whadjuk Noongar people. As Chairperson, Mr Garlett will lead the Board in overseeing WACโs strategic direction, governance responsibilities and engagement with members, stakeholders and partners.
Speaking on his appointment, Mr Garlett said he was honoured to accept the role and firmly focused on accountability, transparency and community benefit.
โI 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,โ Mr Garlett said.
โA 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 corporationโs operation, back to its establishment. This is about transparency, good governance and ensuring we are accountable to our members.โ
Mr Garlett said he has trust and confidence in the Board and the decisions currently being made.
โI 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.โ
Mr Garlett and the Board, further affirmed it's support for Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Mr Leon Ruri, and the organisationโs operational direction.
โI fully support Leonโs 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.โ
Chief Executive Officer Leon Ruri welcomed Mr Garlettโs appointment as Chairperson and acknowledged the Boardโs collective role.
โI congratulate Colin on his appointment as Chair and welcome his leadership,โ Mr Ruri said.
โI 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.โ
Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation looks forward to continuing its work under Mr Garlettโs leadership as it advances its responsibilities and strategic priorities on behalf of Whadjuk Noongar people.