Leadership & Experts
Our Centre of Excellence brings together researchers, practitioners, advocates, and people with lived experience to build the evidence base for what works in youth justice.
Leadership Team
The people guiding our research agenda and strategic direction
Nicholas Marchesi
Strategic architect who transformed shipping containers into transformation chambers - personally constructing the majority of the rooms, wiring the electronics that make fluorescent despair tangible, embedding technology that bridges experience to action.
Kristy Bloomfield
Kristy Bloomfield is a visionary leader and passionate advocate for Indigenous empowerment and community development in Central Australia. As a traditional owner from two pioneering families—the Bloomfield and Liddle lines—Kristy chairs Oonchiumpa, an Indigenous-led organization creating generational wealth and economic opportunities on country. Through innovative partnerships with ANU law students, she bridges legal education with lived Indigenous experience, ensuring future lawyers understand the realities of Aboriginal communities. Kristy leads multiple initiatives including HBC (Henry Bloomfield Contracting), Loves Creek tourism development, and the Oonchiumpa Hub vision—a one-stop service center empowering young people through cultural connection, education, employment, and family support. Her work challenges systemic barriers while building sustainable pathways for Indigenous youth and families.
Tanya Turner
Tanya Turner is a proud Aboriginal woman from Central Australia, whose journey reflects resilience and a commitment to justice. Growing up across Australia, Tanya's experiences shaped her passion for advocacy, leading her to pursue a law degree at the University of Western Australia. As the first Indigenous associate at the Supreme Court of Victoria, she broke new ground by bridging the gap between Indigenous perspectives and the legal system. Tanya actively engages with the Aboriginal Student Center, nurturing future leaders within her community. Her storytelling captures the essence of cultural identity, justice, and empowerment, making her a vital voice in advocating for equality and representation in Australia.
Patricia Ann Miller
Patricia Ann Miller is a respected leader and advocate, celebrated for her profound impact on community work and legal services. As a traditional owner with two doctorates and an AO honor, Patricia's journey has been marked by her role as Deputy Administrator, where she worked with six administrators over 20 years. Her experiences include meeting global dignitaries such as Prince Charles, the Queen, and Pope John Paul II. Patricia’s life is a testament to resilience and service, vividly highlighted by moments such as welcoming the Pope amidst a much-needed rainstorm in Alice Springs, showcasing her unique ability to bridge tradition and modernity with grace and humor.
Kate Bjur
Kate Bjur is a passionate advocate and trailblazer in youth support, serving as the Executive Director for Research and Advocacy at Peak Care in Queensland. With a career deeply rooted in child protection, education, and youth justice, Kate has dedicated her life to amplifying the voices of young people, particularly during their transformative teenage years. Her impactful research delves into the complexities of identity and belonging, exploring how these elements influence young individuals, especially those from marginalized communities. Kate's pioneering work on the dynamics of gang affiliation reveals her commitment to fostering environments where trust, timely support, and genuine connection redefine futures. Driven by an unwavering belief in the resilience and potential of youth, Kate Bjur is reshaping systemic approaches to nurture a sense of belonging and identity in every child.
Olga Havnen
Olga Havnen is a passionate advocate for justice reform, deeply committed to addressing the overrepresentation of Aboriginal people in the legal system. With roots in the Northern Territory, she has consistently challenged draconian and racially biased legislation, striving for systemic change. Although not a direct participant in the justice system, her impactful work at Dan La Dilberg, particularly integrating primary healthcare into youth detention centers, highlights her innovative approach. Her engagement with international models like the Diagram initiative underscores her dedication to seeking non-punitive, therapeutic solutions. Olga's contributions are marked by a relentless pursuit of equity, inspired by her commitment to uplifting Aboriginal voices and championing transformative justice.
Advisory Groups
Indigenous Advisory Circle
Elders and community leaders ensuring cultural safety and Indigenous self-determination in all our work.
Youth Advisory Panel
Young people with lived experience guiding our approach and ensuring youth voices shape our research priorities.
Research Partners
Academic institutions and research organizations collaborating on evidence synthesis and evaluation.
Work With Us
We're always looking for passionate people to join our mission. Whether you're a researcher, practitioner, or someone with lived experience, there are ways to contribute.