Originally from Katherine, Hayley completed her schooling at Clyde Fenton and Katherine High School before moving to Brisbane to pursue higher education at the University of Queensland. In 2023, she graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Majoring in Ecology) and a Bachelor of Laws (Honours).

While studying, Hayley gained valuable experience working for the Northern Territory Government’s Department of Industry, where she helped develop new biosecurity legislation. In her final year of university, she also worked as a research assistant in Immigration Law and volunteered to teach Australian Immigration policy and history to high school legal studies students.

After graduating, Hayley served as an associate to a Northern Territory Supreme Court Justice in 2024. Following her associateship, she took time away from law to travel across India for three months and later participated in a month-long artist residency in Tasmania. She is currently completing her Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice.

In June 2025, Hayley relocated to Alice Springs and joined Ward Keller, where she has been warmly welcomed by a supportive and friendly team. Outside of work, Hayley enjoys reading, drawing, and exploring the outdoors through bushwalking.