Eddie Robertson

Elder and community leader

2015 NT Senior Australian of the Year

A peacemaker, statesman and strong family man, Eddie Jampijinpa Robertson has been an inspirational and dedicated member of the Yuendumu community and the wider Warlpiri and Central Australian communities throughout his long lifetime.  A respected elder, Eddie holds positions on many boards and is currently Chairperson of the Warlpiri Youth Development Aboriginal Corporation.  Eddie’s critical role addressing chronic petrol sniffing in Yuendumu continues to help save the lives of a generation of young people.  In his challenging role as Indigenous Engagement Officer for the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, Eddie moves easily between two cultures.  Yuendumu’s longest serving Mayor and a long term member of the Yuendumu Baptist Church, Eddie inspires his community, convening sporting events, supporting youth at risk and providing cultural mentoring.  A leader willing to work with everyone, renowned for his ability to broker sound compromises, mediate conflict and lead by example, Eddie has an enduring commitment to improve the lives of the members of his community.