Honouring Our Leaders: Selena Uibo, A Trailblazer Rooted in Culture

Selena Uibo has made history as the first Indigenous woman to lead a major political party in Australia. Stepping into the role of Northern Territory Labor leader.

Born and raised in the Northern Territory, Selena Uibo’s leadership is firmly grounded in her rich cultural heritage. Her mother is Nunggubuyu from Numbulwar and Wanindilyakwa from Groote Eylandt, and these connections to Country have shaped her identity and approach to leadership.

Selena’s father, a second-generation Australian of Estonian and South African heritage, adds another layer of diversity to her background, but it is her ties to Numbulwar and Groote Eylandt that remain central to her sense of purpose and direction.

A fluent speaker of English and Kriol, Selena also speaks some Wubuy, the language of her mother’s Country. This linguistic connection underscores her deep ties to community and her commitment to preserving and honouring culture in every aspect of her life and work.

Selena’s rise in politics began in 2016 when she was elected as the Member for Arnhem, representing many remote and Indigenous communities. Her commitment to her constituents earned her a place in the cabinet in 2018, where she managed portfolios including Remote Housing and Homelands, Health, Parks and Rangers, and Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.

Her leadership is defined by a focus on ensuring that the voices of First Nations people and remote communities are heard at the highest levels of government. Her experience working across such diverse portfolios reflects her dedication to creating meaningful change for her communities.

At the heart of her new role is a commitment to accountability. “I love the Northern Territory, and I work hard every day for my electorate,” Selena shared during her first press conference as opposition leader. “We will work hard to hold the government to account and ensure they deliver for all Territorians.”

Selena’s appointment also shines a light on the remarkable representation of Indigenous leaders within the Northern Territory Labor Party. All four MPs who retained their seats in the recent election—Selena Uibo, Chansey Paech, Dheran Young, and Manuel Brown—are Indigenous. This representation is a powerful reminder of the transformative role First Nations leadership plays in shaping the future of the Northern Territory.

Selena Uibo’s leadership is more than a political achievement; it is a celebration of cultural pride, resilience, and connection to Country. Her ability to lead while honouring her Nunggubuyu and Wanindilyakwa heritage sets a powerful example for First Nations communities and all Australians.