Dr Cass Hunter

Cass joined CSIRO at just 17 as a cadet and after five years she commenced her PhD while remaining affiliated to the organization. After successfully completing her postdoctoral fellowship, she returned to CSIRO full-time.

Cass has championed the value and distinct contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff.

“Indigenous Scientists are creating Indigenous-led change in the sector with their distinct skills. But these skills can be undervalued. They can also sit outside traditional career advancement systems, which can limit people’s progression.”

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders comprise less than 3% of our staff, so we try to position ourselves on the agenda to strengthen Indigenous Talent management. Building champions of change takes time. I’m excited our organization has appointed an Indigenous Talent Acquisition Business Partner. It’s the start of a new chapter of championing commitment, understanding and strategy so we move in the right direction for Indigenous employment.”

As her career has developed, Cass has adjusted her goals and her priorities.

“In my early career, my primary goals were work milestones. But over the past few years, I’ve spent more time reflecting on career balance and longevity. I’ve created new goals, like: how many small and big adventures can I have with my family in a year? I’ve taken up flexible work arrangements, such as reducing my salary to get additional holidays and working a nine-day fortnight.”

“CSIRO has given me opportunities, mentorship, learning experiences and independence to carve out my role.”