Aunty Rhoda Roberts AO

In 2026, the National NAIDOC Committee proudly posthumously honours the late Rhoda Roberts AO — a visionary cultural leader whose influence transformed Australia’s artistic and cultural landscape.

A proud Widjabul Wia-bal woman from Bundjalung Country, Rhoda Roberts AO dedicated her life to elevating First Nations voices through storytelling, performance, creative direction and cultural leadership. Across decades, she created space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories to be seen, heard and celebrated on some of the country’s biggest stages.

Her work reshaped Australian arts and culture, inspired generations of First Nations creatives, and challenged institutions to make room for truth, representation and Blak excellence.

Lynette Riley said:

“Rhoda Roberts AO was a force — fearless, brilliant and deeply committed to community and culture. Rhoda had been selected for this honour, and we felt strongly that it was important to continue recognising her extraordinary contribution. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”

Steven Satour added:

“Rhoda embodied what ‘50 Years of Deadly’ represents. She showed our people that our stories belong everywhere! On stages, screens, in institutions and in the national conversation. This recognition honours a lifetime of cultural leadership and the extraordinary legacy she leaves behind.”

The National NAIDOC Committee extends its deepest respect to Rhoda Roberts AO’s family, loved ones and community as we honour her enduring contribution to First Nations arts, culture and leadership.