Torres Strait Islander leader, Vonda Malone, has been announced as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA).

Ms Malone – a Torres Strait Islander woman with connection to Thursday Island and Erub (Darnley Island) – will become the most senior public servant living in the region.

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the appointment demonstrated TSRA’s commitment to providing local leadership opportunities.

“As the region’s lead federal agency and large local employer, we are proud to create a legacy for our own people to grow, develop and thrive as leaders,” Mr Stephen said.

“I would like to congratulate Ms Malone on her appointment and welcome her wealth of experience, advocacy and connections across all levels of government, most recently as the first female mayor for Torres Shire Council.”

Mr Stephen said the appointment followed an extensive recruitment process, approved by Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP in consultation with the TSRA Board.

“Local decision-making and self-determination includes having a say in the leaders who will advocate for the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.”

“We look forward to Ms Malone’s leadership to bring together the many government agencies represented in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area and our Non-Government Organisations to advance the political and economic priorities of our people and region.” he said.

He also thanked former CEO Leilani Bin-Juda and for her efforts and contributions to the region.

Incoming CEO Vonda Malone said she welcomed the opportunity to work with staff, communities and the TSRA Board to deliver local priorities.

“It is important we build on lessons learned during the pandemic to innovate, improve and challenge each other to deliver the best possible outcomes for our people and region,” Ms Malone said.

“Beyond delivering outcomes and positive change, I hope to encourage women and people in regional and remote communities to pursue leadership opportunities.”

Ms Malone will start her five-year term on 1 May 2022.

Learn more about the TSRA at www.tsra.gov.au

Media contact: media@tsra.gov.au