Kimberley Whakatau

Kimberley is a Certified Behaviour Analyst with a Master of Applied Behaviour Analysis and a Postgraduate Qualification in Forensic Mental Health. With more than 10 years of experience across disability, mental health, forensic, and justice-related systems, she has dedicated her career to supporting individuals with the most complex behavioural, psychosocial, and risk-related support needs.

As General Manager of Complex Behaviour Support at Elvara, Kimberley has been instrumental in developing and leading specialist clinical services designed to support individuals whose needs often extend beyond traditional service models. She has built and led high-performing clinical teams that work alongside individuals presenting with significant behavioural complexity, elevated risk profiles, forensic involvement, restrictive practice requirements, and histories of service exclusion.

Kimberley’s expertise lies in understanding and responding to complexity. Her work focuses on the assessment and management of risk, reducing restrictive practices, developing evidence-based support pathways, and helping teams confidently support individuals who are often considered the most challenging to serve. She is passionate about moving beyond risk avoidance and towards risk understanding, ensuring support is informed by clinical formulation, behavioural science, and a commitment to human rights.

Throughout her career, Kimberley has worked across high-risk and forensic environments, supporting organisations to build capability, strengthen governance, and deliver meaningful outcomes for individuals with complex needs. She is recognised for her ability to navigate complexity, develop innovative clinical solutions, and translate evidence into practical strategies that improve quality of life.

Her passion for advancing practice within complex and forensic behaviour support extends beyond service delivery and leadership. Kimberley is a regular presenter at industry conferences and professional development events, sharing knowledge and practical insights with clinicians and leaders across the sector. This includes presenting at Australasia Youth Justice conference and the Australian Behaviour Analysis Conference, where she has contributed to discussions on risk, behavioural complexity, workforce capability, and evidence-based support for individuals with high-risk presentations.

At the heart of Kimberley’s work is a belief that every individual deserves access to high-quality, ethical support and the opportunity to live a meaningful life, regardless of the complexity of their circumstances