The passing of Ann Weldon marks a profound loss for Aboriginal communities in NSW and beyond. A proud Wiradjuri woman and lifelong advocate, Aunty Ann was a central figure in the First Nations civil rights movement born and centered around Redfern. She played a pivotal role in establishing key Aboriginal community-controlled organisations, including the Aboriginal Legal Service and Aboriginal housing initiatives. 

Raised on Erambie Mission and inspired by the 1967 referendum, she dedicated her life to advancing the rights, wellbeing and self-determination of Aboriginal people, including through leadership roles across housing, land rights and community services. 

Aunty Ann was also the first female CEO of the Aboriginal Legal Service and the first CEO of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, and served as Chair of the NSW Aboriginal Housing Office Board, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to Aboriginal-led housing and community control. 

Awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in 2025, she is remembered as a strong matriarch, trailblazer and tireless campaigner who stood up for her people in every space, helping to build the institutions that continue to support Aboriginal communities today. You can read more about her life in this NITV eulogy. 

For Shelter NSW, Aunty Ann’s legacy is a powerful reminder that housing justice for Aboriginal people must be grounded in self-determination, community leadership and long-term investment in Aboriginal-controlled housing.