Tessa is originally from a small coastal town on the mid-north coast of NSW. She completed a combined law and communication degree at the University of Newcastle. After graduating Tessa worked in north-east Arnhem Land as solicitor with the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency before moving to Broome in 2012 to work for an Indigenous Corporation, and later Environs Kimberley. Tess assists EK with engagement, community projects, events, fundraising and organisational capacity.