Duncan is an Aboriginal man of Palawa heritage and holds a Bachelor of Education from Queensland University of Technology. He leads the Deadly Innovation Strategy, a cornerstone of the Queensland Government’s $755M Advance Queensland innovation agenda that sets the framework for engaging with First Nations businesses, innovators and communities focused on self-determination and empowerment.  In this role, Duncan works with and alongside First Nations communities to drive new commercial opportunities and jobs to ensure a focus on economic participation and wealth creation, particularly in the new and digital economy.

 

Duncan also holds the position as Special Advisor, First Nation Economic Participation with the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning. He works closely with his policy and corporate colleagues to ensure the inclusion of Indigenous Participation through procurement and infrastructure grants.

 

Prior to this, he led the Aboriginal and/Torres Strait Islander Business Engagement for the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.  Through his efforts, $15m in contracts were secured by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander businesses, creating 1000 jobs in the 14 months prior to the Games.

 

In 2023 Duncan was awarded the Public Service Medal for his outstanding public service to the development and advancement of Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses.