Partnership with Purpose: Reconciliation Through the Arts

As a Partner at McCullough Robertson and leader of the firm’s Not-For-Profit group, Aaron Dahl brings both legal expertise and a deep commitment to community impact. In addition to advising charities and philanthropic organisations, Aaron is a passionate advocate for Queensland’s arts and music sectors — and an active supporter of truth-telling and reconciliation through strategic partnerships.

A Legal Career with a Purpose 

“I’m particularly passionate about working with charities, not-for-profits, and philanthropic organisations,” Aaron explains. “It’s incredibly rewarding to help purpose-driven groups navigate legal challenges so they can continue delivering meaningful impact.” 

Outside of his legal work, Aaron serves on the management committee of QMusic and is a strong advocate for Queensland’s creative industries — a passion that aligns closely with McCullough Robertson’s values. 

Reconciliation as a Core Commitment 

With deep roots in the Queensland community, McCullough Robertson approaches reconciliation as a vital part of its broader commitment to inclusion and respect. “Our reconciliation journey is ongoing,” says Aaron. “We are proud to have our Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) approved by Reconciliation Australia, to be released in October 2025.” 

The firm’s RAP reflects years of listening, learning, and collaboration, with a focus on building relationships and making a lasting difference. 

A Shared Vision with Queensland Ballet 

The partnership between McCullough Robertson and Queensland Ballet is built on a shared commitment to inclusion and cultural understanding. 

“Together, we aim to establish and strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and organisations,” Aaron says. “The arts provide a powerful platform to promote Indigenous voices and foster connection through storytelling.” 

This partnership supports cultural events and performances that celebrate Indigenous dance and narrative including our 2025 Bespoke season, featuring Bidjara Artist and Choreographer Yolande Brown's Canopy - Cool Burn. The partnership also provides opportunities for McCullough Robertson staff and stakeholders to engage with cultural experiences firsthand. 

The Power of First Nations Storytelling 

For Aaron, truth-telling is essential to the reconciliation process. “By supporting truth-telling activities, we educate our communities, honour the resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and work towards systematic change,” he says. “Storytelling — especially through the arts — is a way to build awareness, promote healing, and support justice and self-determination.” 

Strategic Partnerships That Drive Change 

“Partnerships are vital for sustainable progress,” Aaron explains. “They allow us to work collaboratively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders and communities to create shared value and embed long-term change.” 

The collaboration with Queensland Ballet has been instrumental in helping McCullough Robertson deliver on the commitments outlined in their Stretch RAP. Through co-hosted events, workshops, and cultural exchanges, the partnership is advancing the RAP’s core pillars: relationships, respect, and opportunities. 

“Queensland Ballet has helped us bring our RAP to life,” Aaron says. “Through the arts, we’re creating space for meaningful dialogue, cultural exchange, and shared growth.”