Norris was born Ada May Bickford in Greenbushes, Western Australia on 28 July 1901.
Jane completed architecture at the University of Melbourne, worked extensively in Theatre and film production design in the UK and became head of Design at the Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS; 1988-1994).
She later was involved in community work, serving on the boards and committees of organisations in sectors such as disability, children, the aged and immigration.
In this case, she demanded that changing attitudes to work and life, as well as women's contribution to the workforce be recognised.
She raised funds to build Luavi House, the first female residential college at the University of Papua New Guinea, opening on 16 April 1973.