Elsa Dixon made history as the first Aboriginal woman to obtain a pilot’s licence.

But breaking barriers was never the end goal.

Elsa dedicated her life to creating opportunities for others. A proud advocate for Aboriginal people, multiculturalism and migrant communities, she helped establish the Aboriginal Medical Service in Redfern and the Foundation for Aboriginal Affairs, while working tirelessly to support Aboriginal people into employment, education and leadership.

This NAIDOC Week, we celebrate pioneers like Elsa whose legacy continues to change lives long after their own achievements.

Today, that legacy lives on through the Elsa Dixon Aboriginal Employment Grant, which helps Aboriginal people across NSW gain skills, access training and build rewarding careers.

The NSW Government is committed to ensuring more Aboriginal people can access the opportunities they need to achieve their goals. Through the National Skills Agreement, the NSW Government investing an additional $7.5 million over three years to strengthen the Elsa Dixon Aboriginal Employment Grant and the Barranggirra mentoring program, including $3.8 million to expand the Elsa Dixon grant.

Meaning “to fly” or “to arise” in Wiradjuri, Barranggirra helps learners build confidence, strengthen career aspirations and improve employment outcomes.

This investment is about more than funding. It is about continuing Elsa’s work by helping Aboriginal people develop their talents, pursue meaningful careers and contribute to strong, thriving communities.

One person whose life was shaped by Elsa’s support is proud Gumbaynggirr woman Bronwyn Leon.

At just 16 years old, Bronwyn walked into the Newtown Commonwealth Employment Service looking for her first job and met an employment officer named Elsa Dixon.

That meeting changed her life.

“Elsa encouraged and supported me to apply for an office administration traineeship at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, helping me take my first steps into the workforce,” Bronwyn said.

“Her belief in Aboriginal people and dedication to creating opportunities continues to inspire me today.”

With Elsa’s encouragement, Bronwyn went on to build a successful career across health, Aboriginal affairs, community services, government and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.

Years later, Bronwyn became a recipient of the Elsa Dixon grant itself.

“Looking back, I could never have imagined that almost 40 years later I would be sharing my story as a recipient of a grant named in her honour,” she said.

Her story is a powerful reminder of what can happen when people are given the support and confidence to pursue their potential.

For over two decades, the Elsa Dixon Aboriginal Employment Grant has helped thousands of Aboriginal people across NSW access employment and career opportunities. Since 2023, it has supported over 1,000 roles through annual funding of $2.9 million.

Together, these programs open doors, create opportunities and help build the next generation of Aboriginal leaders.

That is Elsa Dixon’s legacy.

Not simply making history herself but helping others create their own success stories.

By continuing to invest in Aboriginal skills, training and employment, the NSW Government is ensuring that legacy lives on for generations to come.