First meeting demonstrates value of Council input

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said the first meeting of the new Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Council had demonstrated the value of government having direct access to a cross-section of talented Queenslanders.

Ms Nelson-Carr said members of the Council were committed to providing frank and forthright advice to help shape the Bligh Government’s policies and services to achieve real and positive change for Indigenous Queenslanders.

“Through me, the Council will provide advice directly to the Premier and Cabinet,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“The Bligh Government has made a serious commitment to listen to the views of this group and work in genuine partnership with its members.

“The Council members were chosen because of their professional expertise and strong connections to community, and their ability to bring a strong cultural voice to assist the Government ‘Close the Gap’ in policy and practice.

“Members have already indicated an interest in improving the way governments deliver programs and services, and building on the strengths and capabilities of individuals and communities.

“I was pleased with the enthusiastic and insightful discussion at today’s first meeting of the Council.

“I’m looking forward to working with members more to ensure the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are heard in shaping Queensland’s strategies to ‘close the gap’ and contribute to the national Indigenous reform agenda.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said today’s meeting was particularly significant as it had been convened on the first Anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations.

“It highlighted the key role the Council can play in driving reconciliation and the achievement of real and positive change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders,” she said.

“The first meeting included discussion with the Legislative, Constitutional and Administrative Review Committee of the Queensland Parliament to advise on its inquiry into recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Preamble to the Queensland Constitution.

“The Council will also be providing advice on a new whole-of-government Reconciliation Action Plan.”

The Council is chaired by Ms Nelson-Carr, with 14 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members from across Queensland.

The Council will meet again in May to provide input into an Integrated Strategy to Close the Gap and achieve the Bligh Government’s Toward Q2: Tomorrow's Queensland ambitions for Indigenous Queenslanders.

Media contact: Minister Nelson-Carr’s office 3235 4280