2017 Queensland Reconciliation Awards open for nomination

Nominations for the 2017 Queensland Reconciliation Awards are now open.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the awards recognised businesses, community organisations, educational institutions and partnerships that had strived for unity and reconciliation.

“This valuable program highlights the organisations across Queensland who are making important contributions to the reconciliation effort,” Premier Palaszczuk said.

“My government is committed to unity, respect and a more inclusive Queensland.

“I look forward to learning more about this year’s nominees and celebrating their successes.”

Minister for Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Mark Furner said the awards — to be held during National Reconciliation Week from May 27 — are an opportunity to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and heritage.

“Each year, more and more Queenslanders are making a commitment to advancing reconciliation,” Mr Furner said.

“By acknowledging and celebrating achievements toward reconciliation in Queensland, we’re taking another step toward true equality for all Australians.”

In 2016, the awards celebrated several initiatives, including programs to increase training and employment opportunities; develop language skills and knowledge of cultural traditions; and hands-on learning experiences through curriculum-based activities.

2017 Queensland Reconciliation Awards Ambassador and North Queensland Cowboys co-captain, Johnathan Thurston encouraged Queenslanders to nominate those actively promoting reconciliation in communities around our state.  

“I believe it’s everyone’s responsibility to continue to develop respectful relationships between Indigenous and non‑Indigenous people, to foster reconciliation, ultimately creating a community where all cultures are valued, respected and affirmed across all areas of society,” Mr Thurston said.

The awards program offers a total prize pool of $25,000 across five categories: Business, Community, Education, Partnership and an overall Premier’s Reconciliation Award.

Nominations close Monday 20 March 2017. For more information or to submit an online nomination, visit www.qld.gov.au/reconciliation

The Queensland Reconciliation Awards is an initiative of the Queensland Government through the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, and the Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships.

The awards are proudly supported by BHP Billiton, Koori Mail and ABC Radio Brisbane and Queensland.

Media contact: 0475 950 772