Alissa Bishop-Thorpe is a dedicated and experienced lawyer with a strong focus on native title law, and corporate governance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporations. With over two years of specialised legal practice, and over 6 years’ experience in law firms within the area of native title, Alissa has worked closely with Traditional Owner groups across Australia to support outcomes that reflect community priorities, cultural identity, and long-term self-determination.

Alissa is proud to have contributed to successful native title determinations, progressed compensation claims, and supported the development of governance structures that align with the unique cultural values and aspirations of each group.

Prior to this role, Alissa worked as a Legal Office at South Australian Native Title Services, and a paralegal at Arma Legal, gaining practical experience in legal research, tribunal processes, document drafting, and corporate support for First Nations organisations.

Alissa holds a Bachelor of Laws (with Honours), a Bachelor of Social Sciences (with Honours), as well as a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from the Law Society of South Australia. 

She is currently completing a Master of Laws at the University of Adelaide. During her studies, she was recognised with a Dean’s Certificate (2019) and the Adelaide Graduate Award (2018).