Indigenous Perspectives leaders appointed to key roles at ANTAR

Indigenous Perspectives today announced the appointment of two of its senior leaders to key board positions at ANTAR, a leading national advocacy organisation committed to achieving rights, justice and respect for First Nations Peoples in Australia.

•    Des Rogers, Founder and Managing Director of Indigenous Perspectives, has been appointed President of ANTAR, marking a historic milestone as the first Indigenous President in ANTAR's 27-year history. 
•    Shae Lake, Director of Corporate Services at Indigenous Perspectives, has been appointed Secretary of ANTAR.

Additionally, for the first time, ANTAR's Board now has a majority Indigenous representation, with six out of nine board members identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

These appointments reflect Mr Rogers and Ms Lake's leadership, expertise and deep commitment to advocating for the rights and advancement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Their wealth of experience will further strengthen ANTAR's efforts to address critical social justice and policy issues, including truth-telling, cultural heritage protection, justice reinvestment and anti-racism.

Des Rogers: President of ANTAR

A respected Aboriginal Elder from the Pertame clan of Central Australia, Des brings over three decades of leadership experience spanning the social and community services sector and public administration. With extensive expertise in governance, policy development and strategic leadership, Des is known for his ability to implement impactful solutions that drive operational effectiveness and deliver meaningful change for First Nations communities.

Des has served as an ANTAR Board Director for the past five years, providing invaluable contributions to the organisation's strategic direction. His experience serving on prominent boards, including OXFAM Australia and Murri Watch, positions him as a trusted leader and advocate in this new role.

"I am honoured to step into the role of President at ANTAR, an organisation that has been a steadfast ally for First Nations rights for nearly three decades. Being the first Indigenous President is both humbling and a significant responsibility. I look forward to collaborating with our communities, allies and stakeholders to advance justice, truth and equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," said Mr Rogers.

Shae Lake: Secretary of ANTAR

A proud Quandamooka/Wakka Wakka woman, Shae has nearly 30 years of experience in program management, policy development and strategic planning, specialising in initiatives that empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Shae's leadership is grounded in achieving measurable outcomes for communities through innovative and practical solutions. 

Shae has served as an ANTAR Board Director since 2017. Her strong background in governance and organisational change, combined with previous board experience at Murri Watch, ensures she is well-placed to support ANTAR's mission.

"Being appointed as Secretary of ANTAR is a privilege and an opportunity to contribute to a powerful movement for justice and reconciliation. The historic majority Indigenous representation on the Board ensures we are leading the way with the voices of First Nations peoples at the forefront. I am committed to supporting ANTAR's vital work and ensuring the voices of our peoples are heard and acted upon," said Ms Lake.

Blake Cansdale, National Director of ANTAR, said, "Des Rogers' appointment as the first ever First Nations President, and Shae Lake's as Secretary, mark a significant and historic step for ANTAR. Their experience, leadership and deep connections to community will strengthen our work in advocating for justice, truth and reconciliation. 

"With a majority First Nations Board now leading ANTAR, we are better positioned than ever to amplify First Nations voices and deliver meaningful outcomes. We look forward to working alongside Des, Shae and the entire Board to advance the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples."

About Indigenous Perspectives
Indigenous Perspectives is a cultural capability consultancy dedicated to inspiring systemic change and enhancing outcomes for organisations and communities. By integrating First Nations perspectives, we empower organisations to achieve excellence and foster a brighter future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

For more information, visit: www.indigenousperspectives.com.au

About ANTAR                                                                                                                         ANTAR is a national advocacy organisation that has worked alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders, organisations and communities since 1997. As a trusted ally and thought leader, ANTAR engages in advocacy across key issues, including treaties, truth-telling, cultural heritage protection and closing the life equality gap.

For more information, visit: www.antar.org.au