Honoring Rhoda Roberts: A Visionary Pioneer of Indigenous Culture

Heartfelt tributes are pouring in for the legendary Indigenous leader and “trailblazer” credited with originating the phrase “Welcome to Country,” following the announcement of her passing.

Warning: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that this article contains references to and images of a deceased Indigenous person.

The Indigenous visionary behind the term “Welcome to Country” has passed away at the age of 66. Rhoda Roberts, whose remarkable career spanned journalism, acting, and producing, died on Saturday after a courageous fight against a rare form of ovarian cancer.

Throughout her life, she was widely celebrated for coining the now-ubiquitous term “Welcome to Country.” In a moving statement shared on Instagram, her family expressed their profound grief, stating they are “heartbroken.”

“Words cannot truly reflect the love, wisdom, and warmth of our beloved Rhoda,” the family statement shared. “She was incomparable, and there will never be another like her. She will be missed beyond measure.”

Roberts made history as the first Indigenous presenter on prime-time Australian television, appearing alongside co-host Michael Johnson on the landmark program First In Line. Her extensive list of accolades includes co-founding the Aboriginal National Theatre Trust—the nation’s first national Aboriginal theatre company—and being appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for her distinguished service to the performing arts and her efforts in elevating contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

Tanya Denning-Orman, SBS’ First Nations Director, paid a personal tribute to Roberts, noting how seeing the proud Bundjalung woman on screen served as a personal inspiration.

“Rhoda, a fiercely proud Bundjalung woman, reminded us of the legacy we inherit and the vital importance of our mission,” Denning-Orman stated through SBS. “She was stunning in every sense, and her presence on prime-time TV inspired me and countless others. She did more than lead change; she unified an entire sector, mentoring the leaders who now carry the flame she lit through her family, her history, and her ancestors.”

Denning-Orman added that Roberts’ influence reached far beyond the stage and screen, driven by her advocacy for First Nations leadership and her devotion to future generations. “Her spirit remains with Country, woven through the land, our stories, and our community.”

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke also released a statement on Saturday afternoon, remarking that Roberts will “always be respected, revered, and loved.”

“For every stride Rhoda took, she brought an entire generation with her,” Mr. Burke said. “Australia is more creative, our dreams are bigger, and our national understanding is deeper because of Rhoda Roberts. We are forever grateful for her. Rest in peace.”

Rhoda Roberts, you will always be respected, revered and loved. We are grateful for you. Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/2snILDtEbV

— Tony Burke (@Tony_Burke) March 21, 2026

SBS Chair Nicholas Pappas AM emphasized that Roberts “will always hold a special place within SBS.” He praised her “bold, visionary leadership and deep sense of cultural stewardship,” which he said has left an indelible mark on Australia’s cultural landscape. “Her work established a benchmark rooted in integrity and purpose… she redefined what was possible in Australian media.”

Acting Managing Director of SBS, Jane Palfreyman, echoed these sentiments, describing Roberts as a “true trailblazer” whose profound impact is felt deeply across the entire organization.