A legacy of first nations justice & self-determination: APO NT pays tribute to career of Pat Turner AM

The Aboriginal Peak Organisations Northern Territory (APO NT) acknowledges with deep respect and gratitude the extraordinary contribution of Ms Pat Turner AM, as she concludes her role as lead convenor of the Coalition of Peaks.

Ms Turner’s story is deeply connected to the Northern Territory. As the daughter of an Arrernte man and a Gurdanji woman, she has carried the strength, wisdom and lived realities of Northern Territory communities into every role she has held. Her leadership has always been grounded in the experiences of our families, our homelands and our Aboriginal community-controlled organisations.

Across decades of service in the Australian Public Service, the Aboriginal communitycontrolled sector and national leadership roles, Ms Turner has remained unwavering in her commitment to strong, self-determined communities.

Ms Turner’s leadership of the Coalition of Peaks, and her instrumental role in establishing the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, stand as historic achievements—embedding shared decision-making and community control at the centre of national policy.

‘Pat’s legacy will continue to shape the future of Aboriginal policy and leadership across the Northern Territory and the nation for generations’, said APO NT, chair Theresa Roe. ‘She has always carried the NT with her—our people, our stories and our right to determine our own futures—and APO NT acknowledges her outstanding service and the profound impact she has had on our communities.’  

APO NT also congratulates Donnella Mills on her endorsement as the new lead convenor of the Coalition of Peaks, recognising her longstanding commitment to Aboriginal community control and her continued leadership across the sector.

Anthony Beven  

0419 218 518 / anthony.beven@apont.org.au  

MR001/2026

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