Dr Shellie Morris AO is a visionary artist whose music bridges cultures, uplifts voices, and honours the enduring power of First Nations languages. With a career spanning over three decades, she has become one of Australia’s most celebrated singer-songwriters, renowned for her poignant storytelling, infectious humour, and unwavering dedication to healing through music.

Born from a journey of both connection and disconnection, Shellie’s work is rooted in the profound belief that every voice matters. She empowers individuals and communities by fostering spaces where people are heard, valued, and inspired to reclaim their stories. In May 2025 she was recognised for her achievements in the arts with a Red Ochre Award; testament to her peers’ respect for her work both on international stages and in remote parts of the continent.  

While her accolades-from the Black Arm Band and Deadly Awards to ARIA nominations, the NAIDOC National Artist of the Year, the G.R. Burarrawanga Memorial Award, and being named 2014 NT Australian of the Year-speak to her national acclaim, it is on the ground where her impact is most deeply felt. Shellie works closely with communities, reaffirming identity and nurturing resilience through music, whether in the heart of the city or the remotest First Nations of this continent.

Shellie’s commitment to language preservation is unparalleled. She creates and performs music in more than 20 Aboriginal languages, many of which are considered “sleeping” or on the brink of being lost. Since reconnecting with her own Wardaman and Yanyuwa heritage over two decades ago, she has dedicated herself to revitalising these languages, ensuring they are celebrated and passed on to future generations.

Her landmark album Ngambala Wiji li-Wunungu (Together We Are Strong) and the internationally award-winning documentary Prison Songs have been recognised for their cultural significance and humanitarian impact. Prison Songs was nominated for five AACTA awards (including Best Sound and Score), received ATOM Awards for Best Indigenous Resource, and was shortlisted for a Walkley Documentary Award.

Through her music, workshops, and advocacy, Dr Shellie Morris AO continues to elevate female voices, preserve First Languages, and inspire a new generation to find strength and pride.