Social and Emotional
Wellbeing Practice Lead

AFL

Nioka is a proud Yuwalaraay and Gamilaraay woman with cultural connections to the Kooma nation, from far Northwest New South Wales. A qualified Senior Social Worker, Nioka holds a Master in Counselling (Social Work) and postgraduate qualifications in clinical redesign.
Transitioning from the public health system to the AFL, Nioka now serves as the Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Practice Lead. In this role, she leads SEWB and psychosocial interventions, providing case management support for Indigenous Player Development Managers, players, and staff across AFL and AFLW Clubs.
Nioka offers clinical leadership and best-practice guidance in First Nations Australian player development and SEWB approaches, fostering culturally safe and responsive environments. She also leads the Australian Indigenous Psychologists Association Referral Network, ensuring First Nations Australian players and staff receive appropriate care and support.
Through her work, Nioka is dedicated to building holistic support systems that uplift individuals and enhance the social, emotional, and cultural wellbeing of players and their communities.