Australia is mourning the loss of Rhoda Roberts AO, the pioneering Indigenous leader credited with creating the seminal phrase ‘Welcome to Country,’ who passed away at age 66 after battling a rare form of ovarian cancer. Her death on Saturday has triggered an outpouring of tributes from across the nation’s cultural, political, and media landscapes.
Roberts’ multifaceted career spanned journalism, acting, and production, establishing her as a transformative figure in Australian cultural life. She made history as the first Indigenous presenter on prime-time Australian television, co-hosting the program ‘First In Line’ with Michael Johnson. Her foundational work extended to co-establishing the country’s inaugural national Aboriginal theatre company, The Aboriginal National Theatre Trust.
In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to performing arts and Indigenous cultural advancement, Roberts was honored as an Officer of the Order of Australia. Her conceptualization of ‘Welcome to Country’ ceremonies has become an integral part of Australia’s national identity, formalizing recognition of Traditional Custodians at events nationwide.
SBS’s First Nations Director Tanya Denning-Orman memorialized Roberts as ‘a fiercely proud Bundjalung woman’ who inspired generations. ‘She did not just lead change, she galvanised a sector, nurturing and guiding the leaders who are carrying the flame of change forward,’ Denning-Orman stated.
Federal Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke acknowledged Roberts’ profound national impact, noting ‘For every step Rhoda took forward she took a generation of people with her. We have more creativity, more Australians dreaming bigger and a better understanding of our nation because of Rhoda Roberts.’
SBS Chair Nicholas Pappas AM emphasized Roberts’ enduring legacy, describing her leadership as ‘bold, visionary, and grounded in cultural stewardship that has left an enduring mark on Australia’s creative and cultural life.’ Acting Managing Director Jane Palfreyman characterized Roberts as a ‘true trailblazer’ whose influence remains deeply embedded within the organization.
Roberts’ family expressed their profound grief in an Instagram statement, noting ‘Words fail to capture the true love, depth, intelligence and warmth that was our beloved Rhoda. She will be so deeply missed, no one compared to our Rhoda and there will never be another like her.’