Dorinda Cox
ALP Federal

Chair, Measuring Outcomes for First Nations Communities Committee

Elected 2021

5 years

Senator for Western Australia (WA)

Federal - WA

Dorinda was born in 1976 in Kojonup, West Australia. Dorinda is a Yamatji–Noongar woman, whose family has experienced five generations of child removal in her matriarchal line. She grew up in Hamilton Hill and attended South Fremantle Senior High School.

Dorinda joined the West Australian Police Force as a Cadet in 1994 and later became an Aboriginal Police Liaison Officer in 1996. In 2002, Dorinda concluded her work in the Force to begin a career in the Government sector, where she was a...

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Committees

  • Trade and Investment Growth
  • Measuring Outcomes for First Nations Communities
  • Community Affairs: Legislation
  • Community Affairs: References
  • Legal and Constitutional Affairs: Legislation
  • Legal and Constitutional Affairs: References
  • Privileges
  • Law Enforcement
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See It In Action

First Speech in Parliament

19 October 2021

# Indigenous Rights # Climate Justice # Social Justice

Personal Background and Values

  • Dorinda Cox is a strong Noongar Bibbulmen Yamatji woman from the South West and Mid West regions of WA, with a lineage of powerful matriarchs. She acknowledges her roots, her family, and the importance of First Nations representation in politics.
  • Inspired by Paul Keating's Redfern speech, she aims to ignite political interest among First Nations youth. She appreciates the support of her family and acknowledges the sacrifices made for her political journey.

Policy Goals and Legislative Focus

  • Advocates for a national treaty and truth-telling processes to address historical injustices faced by First Nations peoples. Emphasises the need for First Nations voices in governance and policies.
  • Calls for urgent action on climate change and social justice, linking these issues to the rights and cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples. She seeks to reshape systems that currently marginalise these communities.
  • Highlights the need for a national inquiry into violence against First Nations women and the necessity of comprehensive prevention strategies to address gender violence and social disadvantage.

Commitment to Community and Future Generations

  • Pledges to represent the diverse voices of her constituents and advocate for better living conditions and rights for First Nations peoples.
  • Highlights her long-standing commitment to social policy and reform, framed by her personal experiences and professional background.

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FAQ

Dorinda Cox represents the Senate seat of Western Australia in the Australian Parliament.

Dorinda Cox is a member of the Australian Labor Party.

Latest Updates

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See It In Action

Media Releases

Environment Minister fails first test, approves climate-wrecking North West Shelf extension to 2070

Media Release • 28 May 2025

Indigenous Affairs Environment Arts and Culture Energy Emissions Gas Conservation Climate Change Indigenous Affairs - General

AI Summary

  • Environment Minister approved North West Shelf gas extension until 2070, prompting criticism from the Australian Greens.
  • Approval is seen as a significant setback for Australia's net zero by 2050 goal, with concerns over environmental impact and cultural heritage.
  • UNESCO report highlighted pollution threats to Murujuga rock art, with warnings that fossil fuel projects cannot coexist with the site.

Gas Cartel rips the heart out of Gomeroi Country

Media Release • 20 May 2025

Indigenous Affairs Environment Energy Mining Conservation Climate Change Indigenous Affairs - General Native Title Government Grants

AI Summary

  • The National Native Title Tribunal has approved the Santos Narrabri Gas Project, allowing land access on Gomeroi Country despite opposition from Traditional Owners and locals.
  • The project is set to involve drilling up to 850 gas wells, disregarding significant concerns regarding health impacts and cultural heritage.
  • Senator Dorinda Cox criticises the decision as a betrayal of First Nations people and highlights the influence of corporate interests over environmental protection and community consent.

In Parliament

STATEMENTS BY SENATORS

Western Australia: Tourism Industry

Australian Federal Parliament • Senate • 1 April

Tourism and Hospitality

AI Summary

  • Emphasis on the importance of the tourism industry for Western Australia's economy.
  • Discussion on current challenges facing the tourism sector.
  • Calls for increased investment and support from the government to boost tourism.

STATEMENTS BY SENATORS

Perth: Attack

Australian Federal Parliament • Senate • 31 March

AI Summary

  • Senators condemned the recent attack in Perth.
  • Expressions of condolences were made for the victims and their families.
  • Calls for unity and resilience in the community were emphasised.

Social Media

Posted on Facebook • 10 April 2026

During the last sitting fortnight, I was proud to stand alongside colleagues and our diplomatic community at the Parliamentary Friendship Country Groups networking event. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of building genuine, respectful relationships between our nations. A big thank you to my friend the High Commissioner of Mauritius, Her Excellency Sarojini Seeneevassen for her leadership and genuine partnership. As Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Mauritius and Zambia, I’m committed to strengthening these connections. 🇲🇺🇿🇲
Open Post

Posted on Facebook • 8 April 2026

Social Services

We're supporting Western Australians impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle. If you've been directly affected, whether it's damage to your home, injury, or lost income - help is here. ✅ $1,000 per eligible adult ✅ $400 per eligible child ✅ Up to 13 weeks income support if you've lost work. We'll keep working to make sure no one is left behind. Check your eligibility via myGov or Services Australia, or call 180 22 66 if you need support.
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