May 25, 2018
Former Cherbourg State School principal – and founder of the Stronger Smarter Institute – Dr Chris Sarra has been appointed as Director-General of the Queensland Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships (DATSIP).
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the appointment followed a national recruitment search and merit-based process.
“Dr Sarra is highly regarded for his work in pursuing more positive and productive outcomes for Indigenous communities,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“His notable career commenced as the first Aboriginal principal of Cherbourg State School, leading a high performing school and community team which dramatically transformed school attendance, literacy and numeracy outcomes.”
Deputy Premier Jackie Trad said Dr Sarra was a highly regarded executive and brought significant experience to the Director-General role.
He is currently a Professor of Education at the University of Canberra.
His formal qualifications include a Diploma of Teaching, a Bachelor of Education, Master of Education, PhD in Psychology with Murdoch University and an Executive Masters in Public Administration from the Australia New Zealand School of Government.
“A proud Queenslander, Aboriginal man, and educator, Dr Sarra has dedicated his career to influencing policy reform in education and beyond,” Ms Trad said.
“Dr Sarra been recognised for his contribution, commitment and vision both nationally and internationally.
“I know that he is excited about the opportunity to work with all DATSIP staff and to lead this important agency on behalf of the Palaszczuk Government and in the interests of First Nations Queenslanders.”
Dr Sarra will start work in August.
“I’d also like to thank and acknowledge the outstanding contribution of Ms Tammy Williams who has been acting in the role during the recruitment process,” Ms Trad said.
“Tammy is a woman of great vision and intellect and I look forward to continuing to work with her going forward.”
