Karen Kime

Karen Kime is a proud Birripi woman and the First Nations Engagement Officer for Southern NSW Innovation Hub. In her role, she works closely with Indigenous communities to understand the impacts of drought and to co-design culturally informed activities that build resilience and deliver tangible, on-the-ground benefits.

Karen brings a wealth of experience in community engagement, education, and cultural leadership, combining her academic and spiritual backgrounds to support holistic, sustainable outcomes for First Nations peoples.

A trailblazer in her field, Karen was the first Aboriginal woman ordained as a priest in New South Wales and the first female Aboriginal Archdeacon in the Anglican Church of Australia.

As an Academic Fellow at Charles Sturt University, she developed the university’s first Aboriginal Studies subjects for future primary teachers and social workers, helping shape culturally competent education across the sector.

Holding a Bachelor of Social Welfare and a Master of Arts in Cultural Heritage, Karen continues to lead with integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to strengthening cultural understanding and community wellbeing.