Charles Sturt University Distinguished Alumnus of the Year – Social Impact
This award recognises leaders/individuals whose professional or voluntary work has generated significant social impact to a group or wider community(ies).
Winner: Dr Annie Fardell Hartley
Career: Principal Psychologist (Systems), NSW Ambulance
Course: Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology), 2000; Doctor of Philosophy, 2026
Dr Ann-Maree (Annie) Fardell Hartley is a psychologist, suicidologist and mental health leader whose career has transformed suicide prevention and wellbeing outcomes for rural and remote communities across Australia. With more than 25 years of experience spanning clinical practice, education, research, leadership and systems reform, Annie has dedicated her career to ensuring people can access support and hope regardless of where they live.
As Principal Psychologist (Systems) with NSW Ambulance, Annie works at the forefront of workforce wellbeing, mental health strategy and organisational reform for one of Australia's largest frontline emergency services. She is also a Non-Executive Director and member of the Expert Consultancy Panel for R U OK?, serves on the NSW Premier's First Responder Mental Health Advisory Group, the Suicide Prevention Australia NSW/ACT State Advisory Group, and contributes to expert working groups with the American Association of Suicidology.
A respected educator, manager and Psychological Autopsy Investigator, Annie has built a reputation for translating research into practical solutions that strengthen both individual and community outcomes. Her doctoral research explored how rural young people experiencing suicidality engage with social media, generating insights to inform earlier intervention and more effective suicide prevention strategies.
Beyond her professional roles, Annie has founded and led numerous grassroots initiatives, including the Connected Communities Project, the Central West LGBTIQA+ Rainbow Alliance, the NALAG Suicide Prevention Network, and the annual Walk Toward Hope campaign. Through her leadership, advocacy and commitment to collaboration, Annie continues to influence policy, strengthen services and empower communities to create lasting social change.
