Bega Valley Shire Council has endorsed an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Bega Valley Shire Council and the Bega, Eden and Merrimans Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALC).
Council’s Director Community, Environment and Planning, Emily Harrison said the MOU had set the foundation for collaboration and action between Council and the LALCs since 2001.
“We recently reviewed the MOU in collaboration with the LALCs and have made some updates to ensure the MOU meets the current needs and aspirations of the Land Councils and local Aboriginal community,” Ms Harrison said.
“The updated MOU provides a 10-year vision to effect change in the local Aboriginal community, with a focus on social, economic and cultural opportunities and growth, building economic independence and supporting improved health outcomes for Aboriginal people within the shire.
“We have also included reference to Council and the LALCs working together to achieve the intent and objectives of the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Agreement on Closing the Gap, and updates have been made to joint commitments to focus on advocacy, partnerships, land activation and housing.
“Increasing the life of the MOU to 10 years enables a greater strategic focus, but importantly, this will be supported by annual reviews to ensure we are on track.
“An official signing ceremony will be held on 14 August to ratify the document.”
Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick said Council is committed to creating a future where Aboriginal people living in the Bega Valley have social, economic and cultural opportunities and where the cultural heritage and connection to country of Aboriginal people is recognised and respected.
