Dean Heta
Dean Heta
Development Manager
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Dedicated to advancing Indigenous Australian peoples and communities for over 15 years.
Dean Heta is a proud Wiradjuri and Ngapuhi man, dedicated to advancing Indigenous Australian peoples and communities for over 15 years. With a passion for social inclusion and workforce development, Dean has led numerous projects and initiatives across Victoria and NSW, collaborating with Traditional Owners, corporate entities, and government stakeholders.
Dean's commitment to family, culture, and community shines through in both his personal and professional life. When he's not working, Dean enjoys spending quality time with his wife and two sons, engaging in cultural practices, participating in traditional land management, and coaching young Indigenous athletes in Australian rules football.
In his professional capacity, Dean has held various leadership roles, including Senior Manager of First Peoples Engagement at the Victoria 2026 Organising Committee and Principal Advisor for Aboriginal Engagement at Melbourne Water. He has also served on boards and committees, such as Vice-Chair of the Albury and District Local Aboriginal Land Council Board and Board Member of the Westside Community Centre.
Dean's areas of expertise encompass leadership, cultural knowledge and protocols, engagement with Traditional Owners and Aboriginal communities, development and delivery of Reconciliation Action Plans, project management, research, mentoring, coaching, and delivering cultural awareness training.
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