Virginia Falk
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) / Bachelor of Laws (2002)
Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (2003)
Bachelor of Vocational Training and Education (CSU)
Master of Laws (ANU)

Water is our most precious resource, a fact that UOW graduate Virginia Falk understands more than most. As the CEO of the Aboriginal Water Trust she works with indigenous communities around New South Wales on a range of water management issues. At the same time she manages family responsibilities alongside the completion of her PhD.

The Aboriginal Water Trust is a unique project of the NSW Government that delivers funding and other services to Aboriginal communities, individuals and businesses. To achieve these outcomes, Virginia travels to towns and cities across the state, assisting with the establishment of water enterprises, the purchase of water licenses and the preservation of water knowledge. She also applies all her legal, communication and educational skills to influence high levels of government.

“I head a Project Team and facilitate an Advisory Committee to the Minister. I am also a representative on senior agency meetings that relate to natural resources management and economic development for Aboriginal communities,” explains Virginia .

Since water is an intrinsic component of Aboriginal identity and law, one of the most personally rewarding aspects of this work for Virginia is the chance to create a system that offers self-sufficiency within Aboriginal cultural values.

Virginia 's passion for cross-cultural understanding is one of the reasons she chose to study at the University of Wollongong (UOW) as a mature age student. After many years working as a musician and raising her family she also wanted to explore new career opportunities.

“I applied to UOW because I believed it would be more open and considerate of other peoples' belief systems in a culturally and gender appropriate way,” she reveals.

Once enrolled in a combined Arts/Law degree, Virginia 's self confidence improved with every high distinction she earned. She was initially surprised by this academic success, given that her secondary education ended in year 10. Her “can-do” attitude was the basis of her achievements.

“If situations come up that temporarily stall your achievement get back on track and achieve your dreams. Your passion for life will inspire others,” she states.

After finishing her undergraduate degrees, Virginia completed the Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice at UOW to qualify as a solicitor. She then practiced in criminal law before working as a Judge's Associate in the Federal Court, a role that raised her respect for the judiciary and the complexity of interpreting the law at a higher level.

Inspired by people who overcome obstacles and remain compassionate in spite of adversity, Virginia 's determination and the support of her family have encouraged her to continue with her studies.

She is now half way through a PhD in Law.