CHARLOTTE COULTHARD-DARE

COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD
NOMINATED FOR
Adelaide
Profiles on this page have been prepared and submitted by nominees or their representatives as part of the South Australian Pride Awards process. Content reflects the words, achievements, and information provided in those submissions. Pride Adelaide has not edited profiles beyond minor formatting or clarity adjustments. Inclusion on this page does not represent an endorsement, assessment, or ranking and does not influence the independent judging process.
How would you describe yourself or your work in one sentence?
Community Leader, LGBTIQ Activist and Personality
Tell us a little about what you do
A country girl at heart, I grew up in and around radio, and it was there that I eventually found my voice to advocate for First Nations and LGBTIQA+ communities. My passion for truth-telling led me to the airwaves both locally and nationally as a Radio Personality on a First Nations radio program, where I championed stories that matter and created space for voices that deserve to be heard.
Through my work across various boards and industries, I am committed to learning from the past to strengthen cultural understanding and historical awareness for present and future generations. I bring a distinctive perspective to every role I undertake — grounded in culture, shaped by lived experience, and driven by integrity.
My work in media and leadership has reinforced my belief that storytelling is empowering and transformative. Sharing my own journey as a Transgender First Nations woman from regional South Australia has shown me the importance of honouring both individual narratives and intersectional identities. Indigenous and LGBTIQ+ stories stand powerfully on their own, yet their intersection carries a unique and vital truth.
With lived experience, formal qualifications and ongoing professional development, I bring the skills and insight needed to hold space for complex and authentic storytelling. I seek opportunities to enable others across Australia to share their stories with pride, strength and confidence.
What impact or achievement are you most proud of this year?
Aboriginal Rep for SRC (2003)
Reach Out Youth Advisory Committee (2004)
School Vice Captain (2004)
The inaugural recipient of the NAIDOC SA LGBTIQ Person of the Year Award (2019)
Served as a Feast Festival Ambassador (2021)
The inaugural recipient of the South Australian Pride First Nations Person of the Year. (2025)
Why does your work matter to the community?
My work matters in the community because representation is not just symbolic — it is powerful. When people see someone who reflects their identity, culture, or lived experience standing in leadership, media, and advocacy spaces, it challenges limitations and expands what feels possible.
As a Transgender First Nations woman from regional South Australia, I understand the realities of navigating multiple identities. By showing up authentically and unapologetically, I help create safer and more inclusive environments for others who may still be finding their voice. Visibility can shift attitudes, but leadership backed by action builds lasting change.
My work in media, governance, and community roles matters because storytelling shapes understanding. When we control our own narratives, we move from being spoken about to speaking for ourselves. That shift strengthens cultural pride, fosters respect, and builds bridges between communities.
It also matters because I carry culture with me into every space I enter. By learning from the past and honouring those who came before us, I help ensure that future generations inherit stronger foundations — grounded in truth, respect, and inclusion.
Ultimately, my work contributes to creating pathways. Pathways for young people to see themselves reflected in leadership. Pathways for intersectional stories to be heard without compromise. And pathways for communities to grow together, not apart.
What would you like voters to know when voting for you?
I bring lived experience, proven leadership, and a deep commitment to community.
