About SiS

SiS provides culturally safe, holistic and appropriate services that are inclusive and open to all Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Tasmania.  We understand that the most vulnerable people needing access to legal assistance are often also those who face the most difficulties asking for help, and our team works hard to ensure everyone can access our services within and outside of traditional legal settings. We differ from mainstream services by understanding the complex needs of our clients and provide holistic support and wrap around services. As a team, we advocate for law reform and justice, equality, and human rights for all Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Tasmania.

SiS operates a statewide service with offices located in Hobart, Launceston and Burnie.

Our Leadership Team

At SiS, we are proud to have a dedicated and highly skilled workforce with extensive experience in supporting individuals, families and communities impacted by family violence. Our leadership team, together with all staff, bring not only professional knowledge and expertise across the community services sector, but also a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those we support, including lived experience. Collectively, our team is committed to delivering high-quality, culturally safe and trauma-informed services that empower individuals and families through compassion, advocacy, respect and connection. Through knowledge, passion and commitment, we strive to create safe pathways toward healing, strength and positive change.

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    Jake Smith, Chief Executive Officer

    Jake is a proud palawa man who has lived and worked across our island state. Jake is a graduate of the University of Tasmania and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and is a residing Board member of the RSPCA. Jake previously worked for the Australian Red Cross where he held a variety of roles, including State Director and as Red Cross’s Statewide Community Programs portfolio, which included Justice, First Nations, Mental Health and Aged Care. Jake is passionate about social change and improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by consistently advocating for the right to culturally appropriate legal representation.

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    Tyne McConnon, Principal Lawyer – Family & Civil

    Tyne is the Principal Family and Child Safety Lawyer for SiS and the Tasmanian Aboriginal Legal Service. Tyne was involved in the establishment of SiS which saw the first Family Violence Prevention Legal Service be established in Tasmania for Aboriginal victim/survivors of family and/or sexual violence.  Tyne currently works across her island home, however has worked during her career in the Kimberley and Pilbara regions of Western Australia. She has a passion for ensuring equality of legal support and access to legal services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and ensuring the services have an impact on the ground level.

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    Meagan Webb – Manager, Family Domestic Violence (non-legal support)

    Meagan graduated from the University of Tasmania in 2015, with a Bachelor of Arts Degree, majoring in Sociology and Criminology. She has over a decade experience working in a variety of roles across the justice and family violence sector. Her leadership is grounded in empathy and respect, underpinned by a deep commitment to equality and social justice. She is fiercely passionate about driving systemic change and meaningful positive outcomes, walking alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to support self-determination, strengthen communities and advocate for culturally safe practices, creating pathways for empowerment and lasting positive change.

Our SiS team is also made up of our lawyers and administration team. You can find out more about them and how they help our programs via the drop down in this section.

  • At SiS, our Family Violence Prevention Legal Service (FVPLS) team is made up of dedicated and experienced lawyers who are passionate about supporting individuals and families impacted by family violence. Our lawyers provide culturally safe, trauma-informed legal assistance and advocacy, working alongside clients with compassion, respect and understanding.

    With strong knowledge across family violence, family law and related legal matters, Tyne, Ebony and Rylee are committed to empowering clients through access to information, support and justice. They work closely with individuals, families and communities to ensure people feel heard, supported and safe throughout their legal journey.

    Through professionalism, empathy and a genuine commitment to community, our lawyers strive to make a positive difference in the lives of those they support.

  • Our Administration and Community Coordinator teams, consisting of Alex, Mel, Sonia, and Jaymie play a vital role in supporting both our lawyers to deliver high-quality services to individuals and families impacted by family violence. As the first point of contact for many clients, our administration staff help create a welcoming, respectful and culturally safe environment where people feel supported from the very beginning.

    With professionalism, compassion and a strong understanding of the sensitive nature of our work, the team assists with coordinating appointments, managing enquiries and ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the service. Their dedication and commitment help ensure clients can access the support they need in a safe and timely manner. Working collaboratively across all areas of the service, our administration staff are an essential part of the care, connection and support we provide to our communities.