Indigenous leaders who want a greater say on the laws, policies and programs that affect their communities are urged to put their hand up to join Queensland’s First Nations Consultative Committee (FNCC).
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Craig Crawford today called for applicants to be part of an eight-member committee to lead reforms as part of Indigenous Voice model.
“Queensland is home to the nation’s second largest Indigenous population,” Mr Crawford said.
“And their voices must be heard in the decisions impacting their lives, communities and future.”
He said the committee will guide the design of Indigenous Voice reforms as part of a state and national agenda.
“It will reflect the priorities, aspirations and issues that matter most to Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.”
Mr Crawford said the eight-member committee, including two co-chairs, would represent geographic regions including the Torres Strait Islands, Cape York Peninsula, Far North Queensland, North Queensland, Central Queensland, South-West Queensland, South-East Queensland, Gulf and West Queensland.
“Members will demonstrate the leadership, knowledge and expertise needed to advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander of all ages, abilities, genders and locations across all levels of government,” he said.
“The committee members will be asked to draw upon their traditional or historical connection to their region, experience and community support to develop Queensland’s preferred Indigenous Voice model informed by a diverse range of First Nations views.
“By establishing a body or process – a “Voice” – Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people to have a greater say on laws, policies and programs that impact them and their lives.”
Mr Crawford said community advocacy supported by the Palaszczuk Government had delivered historic achievements such as the recent Daintree land handback to the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people and the renaming of Fraser Island to its Butchulla language name K’Gari.
“This committee builds upon the Queensland Government’s commitment to Path to Treaty and will support self-determination on state and national voice reforms.”
