The Australian Association of Social Workers has proudly announced Rachel Bruce as the Association's first dedicated Torres Strait Islander Director, commencing after the AASW's Annual General Meeting on 6 November.

The Association said the "milestone" appointment delivers on their "commitment to representation of both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at the highest level of the organisation's governance".

Born and raised on Waiben / Thursday Island, Ms Bruce's heritage is Meriam (Eastern) and Mabuiag (Western) Islands. An Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, she has more than two decades' experience supporting and advocating for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, families and communities across Queensland and beyond.

"It is an honour to be elected as the first Torres Strait Islander Director on the AASW Board," she said.

"This role is an opportunity to ensure that Torres Strait Islander voices are not only heard, but meaningfully influence the direction of our profession."

AASW national president Julianne Whyte AOM said the new Director position is a meaningful step for the organisation and the profession.

"Creating a Torres Strait Islander Director position reflects AASW's commitment to representation, self-determination and respect for the distinct cultural identities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," she said.

"Rachel's leadership and cultural knowledge will strengthen our collective voice and guide our work towards a more inclusive and representative Association."

The Director role follows constitutional changes that created two distinct identified positions on the Board: an Aboriginal Director, held by Dr Susan Green, and a Torres Strait Islander Director. The change recognises the unique identities, experiences and aspirations of the two cultures.

Muriel Wymarra made history in 2024 as the first Torres Strait Islander appointed to the AASW Board as an Ordinary Director, Rachel Bruce is the first to hold the dedicated Torres Strait Islander Director position.

Ms Bruce is currently Operations Manager at Mura Kosker Sorority Inc. in the Torres Strait. Her career spans government, community-controlled and not-for-profit sectors, with a focus on culturally informed practice, social and emotional wellbeing and community empowerment. Her achievements include designing culturally grounded service models recognised with state awards, and providing professional and cultural supervision to social workers and staff.