Leah Purcell AM
Actor, Writer and Director
An advocate for social justice and Indigenous rights and was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for her contributions to the arts. Through her work, she continues to inspire and champion Indigenous representation across theatre, film, and beyond.
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An acclaimed Indigenous Australian actor, director, playwright, and author, renowned for her groundbreaking work in the Australian arts industry. A proud Gunggari, Goorie, and Wakka Wakka woman, Purcell is deeply committed to representing and amplifying the voices of Indigenous Australians in both her creative work and public life.
Over her career, Purcell has made a significant impact across theatre, television, and film. She is best known for her role as both a performer and creator of works that explore Indigenous stories and experiences with complexity and authenticity. Her adaptation of The Drover’s Wife into a stage play, and later a film, was met with widespread critical acclaim, garnering multiple awards, including a Helpmann Award and the prestigious Sydney Theatre Award for Best New Australian Work.
Purcell’s work on The Drover’s Wife is a powerful example of her skill as a storyteller, adapting Henry Lawson’s classic short story into a poignant narrative that amplifies the voices of Indigenous women. Her work consistently challenges traditional portrayals of Indigenous people in media and opens up new possibilities for representation, ensuring that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences are heard and valued.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the arts and her advocacy for Indigenous rights, Purcell was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2021. She is also a highly respected voice in conversations surrounding social justice, reconciliation, and Indigenous rights.
Beyond her work as a creator, Leah Purcell is a mentor and advocate for young Indigenous artists, and she continues to work towards greater inclusivity in the Australian arts industry. Her achievements have established her as one of Australia’s leading cultural figures, shaping the future of the nation’s artistic landscape.
Purcell’s extensive body of work across multiple platforms and her commitment to social change solidify her as an influential figure, whose impact continues to inspire and resonate both within and beyond the Australian arts community.
