Two Cultures One Story
An accomplished, highly respected Aboriginal Elder from the Bibilmum Noongar language group, Robert Francis Isaacs has dedicated his life to breaking down cultural barriers and improving the lives of disadvantaged people.
A member of the Stolen Generation, Robert began his career with the Community and Child Health Services in 1973. Since then Robert has successfully introduced practical, innovative policies and programs to assist Aboriginal people. He’s achieved outstanding results in Aboriginal Affairs, Housing, Health, Education and the Community – and is considered an expert in each of these areas.
Key career highlights include: establishing the first Aboriginal Medical Service and associated dental, rehabilitation and health care clinics; negotiating the first land use and mining royalties arrangement; improving relations between Aboriginals and the justice system; assisting in establishing Clontarf Aboriginal College; and leading ground breaking housing initiatives.
Robert has held a number of senior roles including Chairman Administrator of the Aboriginal Housing Board and Senior Policy Advisor to the Minister for Housing and Aboriginal Affairs. He is the former President and Chair of the Aboriginal Medical Service (now known as the Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service), previous Chairman of Clontarf Aboriginal College, and current Chair of the Marr Mooditji Aboriginal Health Workers College. Robert was also the first Aboriginal person to be elected to local government in his previous roles as Councillor and Deputy Mayor for the City of Gosnells.
In recognition of his service to the community, Robert has been the recipient of numerous awards, including Member of the Order of Australia (AM), NAIDOC 2016 Male Elder, West Australian of the Year, Freeman to the City of Gosnells, and Order of Australia Medal.
He now continues his community work through board appointments, ambassadorships, his work as a Justice of the Peace, and speaking engagements.