Australian of the Year

Elise Thornthwaite is a proud Gamilaraay woman dedicated to culturally responsive, respectful early childhood education. 

Currently on maternity leave from her role as an early childhood educator in Milikapiti, on Wulirankuwu Country in the Tiwi Islands, Elise believes learning is rooted in identity, family and culture. Working alongside Tiwi teachers, she embeds Tiwi language, culture and community knowledge into everyday learning through innovative, play-based programs combined with evidence-based literacy and numeracy strategies to strengthen school readiness. 

Elise has worked closely with Elders, families and local organisations to support culturally responsive learning and strengthen connections between children, families and community. She has also contributed to wellbeing activities including community yoga and the Happy Box Project. 

Alongside education, Elise is an emerging writer developing two young adult manuscripts centred on Aboriginal voices. She believes that when children see their culture reflected in learning, their identity and sense of belonging are strengthened.