Jason Davison has lived and worked across Australia and New Zealand, but his recent move to South Australia has already made a lasting impression. ‘You South Australians have certainly kept the secret well,’ he laughs. ‘Your beaches are incredible, the Flinders Ranges are beautiful and Kokatha Country is just spectacular.’
Jason stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer at Kokatha Aboriginal Corporation (KAC) last month, and has recently returned from a visit to the Kokatha stations, near Roxby Downs. It’s an experience that has only strengthened his enthusiasm for the role. ‘I’m loving meeting everyone and I’m really impressed by the scale of the Corporation,’ he says. ‘There’s a lot of positive momentum right now, from the Ranger Program to the growth of Kokatha Mining Services. It’s a really exciting time to be part of KAC.’
With strong experience working in Aboriginal corporations, Jason brings both leadership and a genuine commitment to community. Most recently, he served as CEO of Winun Ngari Aboriginal Corporation in Derby, Western Australia. ‘After moving to Australia from New Zealand, I felt a strong desire to give back to the Country that welcomed me,’ he says. ‘Working alongside Aboriginal communities is one of the most meaningful ways I can do that.’
Jason’s career began in disability support, where he developed the communication and people skills that continue to shape his leadership today. ‘That work taught me how important it is to listen and connect,’ he says. ‘I see my role as bringing people together and building a strong, capable team.’
KAC Chairperson Nyani Thomas says Jason’s appointment comes at an important time for the organisation. ‘This is a really important period for KAC,’ Nyani says. ‘With our new Strategic Plan being launched next week (Thursday, 28 May) and a strong direction ahead, having a CEO like Jason puts us in a great position for the future.’
Jason will be based at KAC’s Railway Terrace office in Port Augusta and is looking forward to becoming part of the local community. ‘I’m really looking forward to getting to know the Kokatha community and spending time with the Elders and meeting the young Kokatha leaders,’ he says. ‘It’s an honour to step into this role, and I’m excited to help KAC continue to grow and reach its full potential.’
