The work Dubbo resident Dawn Towney does to connect Aboriginal people with government services has been recognised at a Department of Human Services awards national NAIDOC week ceremony in Canberra.
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Ms Towney works out of Dubbo's Centrelink service centre and provides support to many communities around the region.
She travels hundreds of kilometres to work with people in their own towns so they can access services.
"It's about breaking down the barriers in smaller communities and building trust," she said.
"I make sure I link in with different sections of the community, like Elders groups, families or young people finishing school, to provide all the support I can.
"It's also important to maintain those relationships, to let people know I'm here for them, either in their communities or over the phone.
"It's about being accountable and showing respect to everyone, whether they're colleagues or customers. I treat people the way I expect to be treated."
Ms Towney started working for the Department of Human Services in Lightning Ridge four years ago. Since then she has made it her mission to improve the lives of as many people as possible.
"I'm passionate about helping our mob," she said.
"The award has reassured me I'm exactly where I need to be.
"It could be a single mum with a bub who needs help with child support, getting people onto the right payment or even just helping someone read a letter. I'm here to help them when they need it."
The Department of Human Services NAIDOC awards recognise work being done around Australia to connect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with payments and services.
"Dawn is a wonderful role model for other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff in the department," Indigenous and remote servicing manager Lauren Callinan said.
"She is a worthy winner of the award for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employee Achievement.
"Her dedication and commitment to supporting local communities has won her the respect of all who work with her."