Warren Locke is a proud Mulanburra Yidindji and Koko Mini Western Yalanji Traditional Owner, whose people come from the Gordonvale and South Palmer River Region of Far North Queensland. With over 38 years of experience, Warren has been instrumental in improving workforce development, particularly in advancing opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals.
As the Health Workforce Manager within the Strategic Pathways Unit of Queensland Health, Warren led the development and implementation of the Queensland Health Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workforce Strategic Framework (2016–2026). This landmark initiative has played a pivotal role in increasing workforce participation, education and professional development for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians across the health sector.
Warren has held various leadership positions, including Board Director and Chairperson of the Health and Community Services Workforce Council in Queensland and Chair of the National Indigenous Advisory Committee for the Indigenous Program of Experience in the Palliative Approach (IPEPA). His influence extends to national policy and workforce committees, where he has advocated for culturally informed and inclusive workforce strategies.
Throughout his career, Warren has been a passionate advocate for positive change, leveraging his expertise in strategic workforce planning, organisational development and cultural resource management. His contributions have made a significant impact across urban, regional and remote settings in Australia, ensuring equitable access to workforce opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
As an independent HumanAbility Board Director, Warren brings his wealth of experience to guide strategic workforce initiatives and foster collaboration between government, industry and community stakeholders.