Luke is the CEO of PLACE. He has played a leadership role in the design, delivery and evaluation of place-based approaches, and in partnership models that bring together government, philanthropic and community stakeholders around shared purpose.

Sarah is the Director of Operations for PLACE. She brings extensive experience in strategy, operations, and governance, particularly in for-purpose start-ups, universities, and international development.

Neiewa is PLACE’s Executive Support, providing advice and assistance to the leadership team and board. She has experience across government, universities and the community sector.

Sean is a Wangkumarra and Barkindji man, raised on the Brewarrina Mission. Sean is the co-founder and Executive Director of the Yadha Muru Foundation and Director of Gidgee Group Consulting and Partnerships Pty Ltd. 

Until recently, Sean was the Independent Chairman of Barkly Regional Deal, a Member of the Woolworths First Nations Advisory Board, a Chairman of the Commonwealth Bank Indigenous Advisory Council, and an Indigenous Advisor to Steadfast. Sean is applying his considerable leadership skills to drive place-based development and support Indigenous communities in establishing decision-making governance structures to drive positive social change.

Sean is a strong advocate of self-determination for Indigenous communities, as well as for social, cultural, and economic empowerment. Sean serves on numerous boards and advisory committees/councils.

Jane is one of Australia’s most experienced public sector leaders. She has held key roles, including Secretary of the Australian Department of Finance, Secretary of the Australian Department of Health; Secretary for the Department of Health and Ageing; and Executive Coordinator (Deputy Secretary) of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. 

Jane was a member of the National COVID-19 Commission Advisory Board and has contributed to community health through local and international organisations, including the World Health Organisation and as Co-Chair of the COVAX Coordination Mechanism.

Fred is a former Federal Deputy Opposition Leader and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Social Security. After retiring from politics, he served on the National Native Title Tribunal; was Co-Chair of Reconciliation Australia; and established the Polly Farmer Foundation.

Fred was named Senior Australian of the Year in 2014 for his service to government and social policy. Fred has worked extensively with Aboriginal communities at the interface with governments.

Robynne is a descendant of the Wiradjuri nation. She is currently Pro Vice Chancellor (Indigenous Leadership & Engagement) at the University of Technology Sydney. Robynne has worked as a solicitor, consultant and academic focusing on issues for First Nations people including human rights, financial inclusion, financial services, consumer rights, governance, the arts and heritage protection.

Robynne is the former Deputy Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner at the Australian Human Rights Commission and previously managed the Indigenous Outreach Program for the Australian Securities & Investments Commission. Robynne chaired the Boards of the NSW Aboriginal Housing Office, the Human Rights Law Centre and Westpac’s Indigenous Committee.