Cathy Leane

Cathy Leane is a Darug woman from NSW, a mother, grandmother, auntie and carer. She has over 20 years’ experience working in early childhood education sector, including as a Director of child care, community development facilitator and home visiting support worker. Cathy also has senior policy and management experience in state government relating to Aboriginal health and wellbeing. Since 2011 she has held the role of Manager Strategic Partnerships in the Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Division, Women’s and Children’s Health Network (WCHN). Key elements of her role include partnerships with Aboriginal community and with researchers, and contribute to improving the cultural competence of WCHN.

Cathy is currently Chairperson of the Aboriginal Governance Group for the Aboriginal Families Study, SAHMRI and MCRI, and the Indigenous Oral Health Unit, Adelaide Uni. She is also Co-chair of the Aboriginal Communities and Families Health Research Alliance (ACRA) Steering Group. She holds a BA (Aboriginal Studies) and Graduate Certificate in Public Health.

She understands the importance of the Early Years and the interplay of the social determinants of health in shaping life outcomes. She is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people  with a particular passion about improving outcomes for Aboriginal children.