Uncle David Rathman

Uncle David Rathman – Arrernte Elder

Uncle David Rathman AM, PSM, FIML, was born and raised in the city of Port Augusta, South Australia. From 1976 through to 2014 he held a number of public service positions across South Australia, including Aboriginal Community Worker, Senior Aboriginal Community Worker (Staff Development), being a member of the Australian Government Committee advising on the future of Aboriginal education, Director: Office of Aboriginal Affairs, Chief Executive: Department of State Aboriginal Affairs, Executive Director: Aboriginal Education and Employment Services, and Executive Director of Student, Aboriginal and Family Services.

Uncle David was awarded the Public Service Medal in 1993 and is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Managers and Leaders. On Australia Day in 2000 he was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), receiving his medal for services to Aboriginal Affairs, particularly for the delivery of SA Government services in the areas of education and community welfare. He was also awarded a Centenary Medal by the Australian Government.

Uncle David continues to serve the Aboriginal community in South Australia as a member of both the Aboriginal Legal Rights Movement Board and the Board of the South Australian Museum, and as Chair of the Aboriginal Advisory Committee. He operates a small consultancy which has undertaken work for several Government agencies, non-Government groups and private sector companies.

Uncle David was recently appointed Ambassador for the Aboriginal Art and Cultures Centre (AACC) now in development at Lot Fourteen. He is a Member of the Order of Australia.

“Learning is a journey that provides opportunities to open up new career options, but more importantly builds resilience and belief in your abilities as an Aboriginal person; allowing for your strength of character to shine through on your life journey.”

-Uncle David Rathman
                                                                Arrernte Elder