Gary Powell

Gary Powell is an experienced leader in community engagement and Indigenous affairs, currently serving as Director at Collaboration for Impact since February 2024 and as Director on the Board of Desert Knowledge Australia since November 2020. Powell holds the position of Senior Advisor at Empowered Communities since December 2018, focusing on national initiatives and the NPY region. In the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Powell has been Regional Manager for Central Australia and National Priorities in Indigenous Affairs since October 2015. A background in advising roles includes special advisor positions with the Northern Territory Government and self-employment from February 2018 to February 2024. Prior board memberships include Northside Community Service, and roles at Empowered Communities, Cape York Institute, and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. As Assistant Secretary at DFAT, Powell was responsible for NGO accreditation and programming, alongside a history of senior executive positions within AusAID. Educational achievements include degrees from The Australian National University and the University of Canberra.