Ivan Clarke
Founding Director
Wiimpatja
Ivan is a Barkinji/Malyangappa man (Far Western NSW) is a member of the Stolen generation.
Ivan is considered the foremost Authority on working with Aboriginal men in the State of NSW because of his long commitment to ensuring that First Nation men are heard and respected in all areas of Society.
Ivan Facilitates the Bennelong Aboriginal men’s Counsel which is funded through the office of DCJ. Ivan is currently facilitating the “Healing the Warrior Program” for the Ranbow Lodge Walama Court construct and is venturing into the John Marony Correctional facility at Richmond for a 12-month trial. This program supports men with substance abuse issues to address their Trauma and how Trauma affects their attitude, behaviour, and lifestyle choices.
Ivan has studied at Sydney University and is a qualified Therapist registered with the Australian Counselling Authority.
Ivan has a wealth of experience in working with Aboriginal Men who have experienced trauma through, Colonisation, Intuitional Racism, Stolen Generation, and Social, Emotional and wellbeing as well as growing up in Domestic violence and family dysfunctionality because of trans-generational trauma.
SESSIONS
Day 2
1:50
Panel: Transforming custody: Centering Aboriginal mental health
Hear about the mental health challenges faced by Aboriginal people in police, remand, and custodial settings, and explore solutions that support rehabilitation, healing, and harm prevention.
Discuss community-led strategies and policy reforms that prioritise care over arrest, protect human rights, and empower communities.
Belinda Foley, Manager, First Nations Team, Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA)
Tianah McBride, Mental Health and Wellbeing Officer, Aboriginal Legal Service of Western Australia
Tanya Wells, Social and Emotional Wellbeing Officer, Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service
Claude Robinson, Manager, The Rainbow Lodge Program
Ivan Clarke, Founding Director, Wiimpatja
Sarah Corrigan, Chair and NSW Director, National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women’s Alliance (NATSIWA)