2003
Honorary award citation
Dawn Casey will be presented with a Doctor of Philosophy honoris causa in recognition of her distinguished career and contribution to Indigenous society.
Ms Casey has wide-ranging experience in the management of Indigenous and cultural heritage policy issues.
While a member of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet (1991–1992), she established the Aboriginal Reconciliation Unit, initiated a joint Commonwealth and State Government response into Aboriginal deaths in custody, and advised on policy relating to land rights and heritage and mining issues.
From 1992–1994, she established and was the Assistant Divisional Head of the Land and Natural Resources Branch within the Queensland Government’s Department of Family Services and Aboriginal and Islander Affairs.
She then acted as Assistant Director General, AusAID (1994–1995); Assistant Secretary, Heritage Branch, Commonwealth Department of Communications and the Arts (1995–1997); and Chief General Manager, Construction Coordination Task Force (1997–1999).
As Director of the National Museum of Australia (1999–2003), she was responsible for the collection, preserving and researching of: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and cultures; Australian society since 1788; and Australian people’s relationship with the environment.
An honorary fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities, Ms Casey has received numerous other accolades including three Commonwealth Public Service Australia Day Medals, a Centenary of the Australian Public Service Medal, and a Centenary Medal for service to Australian society through Aboriginal affairs and the National Museum of Australia.