The Northern Territory Aboriginal Investment Corporation has appointed their new chief executive, Elly Patira.

Ms Patira, a First Nations woman with broad corporate and finance experience as a top-tier commercial lawyer, has extensive experience working with Aboriginal communities throughout Victoria and the Northern Territory.

She first came to the Territory in 2012 as a regional lawyer with the Central Land Council, supporting Traditional Owners to progress land claims and economic development initiatives. Her work with remote communities has continued through her involvement with Australian Lawyers for Remote Aboriginal Rights.

Most recently, Ms Patira headed up the First Peoples – State Relations Group in Victoria's Department of Premier and

Cabinet, leading Treaty, cultural heritage and Aboriginal self-determination reform. She also served as interim

chief executive of the Yoorrook Justice Commission, establishing Australia's first formal truth-telling body.

Ms Patira holds a BA and Juris Doctor (Law) from the University of Melbourne and a Masters in International Human Rights Law from the University of Oxford, with a focus on Indigenous rights and development.

Her return to the Territory was welcomed by the Northern Territory Aboriginal Investment Corporation (NTAIC) Board and Chairperson Barb Shaw, who said she looks forward to working closely with Ms Patira who brings "years of experience working as a leader and advocate for Aboriginal people".

"Ms Patira has built strong and trusted relationships with Aboriginal communities throughout the Territory, and we are excited about the skills and experience she brings to the NTAIC," Ms Shaw said.

Ms Patira said she said is excited to be back in the Territory and, "more importantly", working with Aboriginal communities.

"The work that the NTAIC is tasked with is imperative to Aboriginal self-determination and I am passionate about ensuring that the voices of Aboriginal people across the Territory are at the centre of NTAIC's work," she said.

"I know my team and I have a big job ahead of us look and we look forward to building on the strong foundations established by NTAICs previous CEO, Leeanne Caton."

Ms Patira commenced in the role on Monday 14 August.