Kristen Hodge is the President of the Indigenous Lawyers Association of Queensland, a role that allows her to advocate for the advancement and empowerment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practitioners and law students.
She is also co-Chair of the Queensland Law Society First Nations Legal Policy Committee and passionate about creating opportunities for professional development and mentorship. Proctor asked Kristen about this year’s NAIDOC Week milestone and focus on the next generation.
This year is the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC marking decades of elevating Indigenous voices. What achievements are you most proud of?
What I am most proud of is our people – who continue to rise, advance and speak truth in the face of ongoing disrespect, not just to our communities but to Country itself.
First Nations ways of knowing, being and doing are not just cultural expressions – they are central to the survival and healing of this land. Yet here in Queensland, we’ve faced significant setbacks: the failure of the Voice referendum, followed by a new State Government abolishing the truth and treaty process within days of taking office. This decision left many in our communities devastated.
But even in that heartbreak, our people showed up. They still held the sessions. They spoke their truth. And they refused to be silenced. Our fight is far from over. And it pains me to say it’s still a fight. In fact, one that feels like it’s only just begun as we continue to find ways to ensure our voices are heard – loudly, clearly and with purpose.
This year’s theme is The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy – why should the next generations get involved in committees and public advocacy?
If you are a First Nations person entering the profession or early in your career – WE NEED YOU URGENTLY. The First Nations leaders sitting around the decision-making tables today are the same ones who were there 30 years ago.
Their strength, wisdom and legacy have carried us through decades of struggle and progress. But they cannot -and should not- carry this alone.
This year’s theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, is a call to action. It’s about passing the torch. It’s about ensuring that our stories, our rights, and our futures are shaped by those who will live them.
We need young people to step up, speak out, and take their place in the movement. Your voices bring fresh energy, new ideas, and a deep connection to both culture and innovation. When you join committees, lead advocacy, and engage in public life, you help build a future where First Nations leadership is not just respected – it’s central. Our legacy is strong; this vision is clear and now it’s time for the next generation to lead.
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