WURREKER - LOCAL GOVERNMENT - INDIGENOUS PARTNERSHIPS RESOURCE GUIDE

Transcription

1 WURREKER - LOCAL GOVERNMENT - INDIGENOUS PARTNERSHIPS RESOURCE GUIDE wurreker MESSAGE CARRIER (Wemba Wemba Language)

2 Wurreker - Message Carrier (Wemba Wemba Language) Author: Karen Milward, MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer Editor: Jenny Wills, MAV Director Social and Cultural Policy Production: See Australia Guides Pty Ltd ISBN Front Cover Artwork: Karen Milward Municipal Association of Victoria GPO Box 4326PP Melbourne Victoria 3001 phone: (03) fax: (03) Inquiries@mav.asn.au 2

3 Contents FOREWORD Stegley Foundation - Brian Stegley 6 MAV President, Councillor Brad Matheson 7 WHY WRITE THE RESOURCE GUIDE? 8 PART ONE: PARTNERSHIPS - THE FOUNDATIONS Formal Intergovernmental Agreement 9 New Partnerships 9 ALGA Aboriginal Policy Officer 9 ALGA National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Local Government Reference Group 10 Aboriginal Policy Officers 11 MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer - Karen Milward 11 MAV Policy Statement 12 MAV Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Project 14 MAV Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Reference Group 14 MAV Local Government Indigenous Network 15 Network Checklist 15 Network Terms of Reference 16 PART TWO: PARTNERSHIPS - RECOGNITION, KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING Aboriginality Definition 17 Flags - Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander 17 Statistics, Reports and Legislations 18 Agreements 20 Implications for Local Government 20 ALGA General Assembly 23 Political Participation 23 Historic General Assembly Indigenous Australians Resolutions ATSIC Origins and Structure 29 Corporate Plan NAIDOC Week 34 Council Celebrations - St. Kilda/Port Phillip 38 NAIDOC Week Reconciliation 41 What is Reconciliation? 41 Eight Key Issues 41 Essential Five Steps 41 3

4 Contents Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody, 1994 Recommendation 42 The Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation 42 Members of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation 44 Australian Reconciliation Convention 46 Australian Reconciliation Council - Local Government Seminar 47 Australian Reconciliation Convention Report on Government progress toward Reconciliation 48 Convention Statement - A Call to The Nation 50 Local Government Statements of Commitment and Reconciliation Policies and Strategies 51 Local Government Reconciliation Program - Council Projects 70 NATIVE TITLE What is Native Title? 73 What is a Native Title Representative Body? 73 Australian Reconciliation Convention - Native Title Seminar Proceedings 75 MAV and Native Title 78 Local Government workshop on Native Title 79 Native Title, Reconciliation and Agreements 80 Good Practice Initiatives 81 STOLEN GENERATION Background 84 Local Governments Action Checklist 84 Local Government Apology Statements - Good Practice 87 PART THREE: PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Aboriginal Cross Cultural Awareness Training Introduction 89 Presenters 89 Checklist for Successful Training 90 Essential Elements of Local Government Course 91 Quotes - expectations and results 92 Consultation and Committees Introduction 94 Council Check List 94 East Gippsland - Bataluk Cultural Trail - Good Practice Example 96 4

5 Contents Aboriginal Advisory/Consultative Committees and Working Parties Introduction 98 Check List 98 Objectives and Outcomes 98,99 Shire of Yarra Ranges, City of Port Phillip, City of Yarra and Shire of Glenelg - Good Practice Examples 99 Local Government Aboriginal Policy Officers Background and Objectives 108 Check List 109 Shire of Yarra Ranges - Aboriginal Policy Officer - position specification 110 Library Services Introduction 113 Protocols 113 Employment/Economic Development Tourism Initiatives Introduction 116 East Gippsland - Bataluk Cultural Trail - Good Practice Example 117 City of Greater Shepparton - Aboriginal Employment Unit - Fruit Connection - Good Practice Example 120 Cultural Heritage Introduction 122 Aboriginal Affairs Victoria 123 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act Cultural Heritage Workshop Recommendations 127 Local Government Indigeneous Representation Introduction 130 MAV s Role and Actions 130 Future Directions 131 Case Study - City of Port Phillip 132 THE FUTURE Summary 140 Agreements 141 PART FOUR: RESOURCES Reports, Publications and Videos Related to Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Issues 143 Acronyms 145 5

6 Foreword The Stegley Foundation sees its philanthropic role as promoting social justice through social change, primarily by assisting and supporting disadvantaged sections of society to alter the policies and practices that discriminate against them. The Foundation s major funding program is the Local Community Development Program. The focus of our funding is on making Local Government, as well as other levels of government, more responsive and accountable to their communities. In this context, supporting the publication of the MAV s Resource Guide fits well with our strategic objectives. The Guide will provide valuable assistance to those Councils looking for ideas and concrete approaches to developing partnerships with their Indigenous communities and implementing action plans which will ensure that Local Government structures, planning processes and service provision are relevant and accessible to Indigenous people. The Trustees look forward to a growing number of Councils working towards greater Indigenous involvement in Local Government, through their participation as elected representatives, in local and Council employment and in the development of community based Indigenous initiatives. BRIAN STEGLEY (on behalf of the Trustees) 6

7 Foreword Cr Brad Matheson MAV President This Resource Guide demonstrates that Victorian Councils are taking up the challenge of working with, and responding to the needs of Indigenous communities across the State. The MAV through the initiatives of the Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network, the interagency co-ordinating group and the ongoing work of the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer will continue to support Local Governments to deliver better outcomes for Indigenous people. I would like to acknowledge the strong support of the National Office of Local Government in funding the National Aboriginal Policy Officer Program which has been the key to establishing Council-Aboriginal partnerships across the State. Congratulations are due to Karen Milward, the MAV s Aboriginal Policy Officer for her outstanding contribution over five years in bridging cultures and achieving results which benefit not only Indigenous people in local communities, but also communities as a whole, as we strive for reconciliation and common ground. The interest and financial support of the Stegley Foundation for the production of this Guide is most appreciated. I encourage Local Governments to follow the Guide s advice and to learn from the practical experiences of others, so that in the near future we can proudly celebrate a true partnership between Local Government and Victoria s Indigenous communities. 7

8 Why??????????? write the good practice resource guide? This Resource Guide consolidates the lessons and experiences of the MAV Aboriginal Project over a period of five years. It builds on the knowledge gained from working with 76 Councils of the 210 Councils prior to amalgamations - and another 44 (out of 78), after the amalgamations. It follows numerous approaches from Councils, Indigenous communities, individuals and organisations, seeking a resource to assist Local Government to deal appropriately with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues. It is about taking the first steps from how to make contact, to developing successful working relationships and projects. It has also been developed to encourage Councils to consider and/or reaffirm their commitment to the reconciliation process. This is the first time a Guide has been written for Victorian Councils highlighting and outlining the issues of importance to Indigenous communities and how Councils and Indigenous peoples can address these issues together. It includes good practice initiatives which may be adopted or adapted to other areas and circumstances. It highlights the necessary processes - the do s and don ts - when approaching and working with the Indigenous community in Victoria. It also provides background information and reports highlighting the work involved in the MAV s Aboriginal Project, as well as historical Aboriginal information and statistics. Ultimately, this Guide is about giving Councils the confidence to develop effective communication with their Indigenous communities and to address issues of mutual importance in the planning and provision of programs and services. It is therefore, a unique tool, which will help Councils build sustainable, meaningful partnerships with their Indigenous communities. There are four parts to this Guide in which Part One provides the foundations for partnerships between Councils and their Indigenous communities commencing with the 1992 Inter-governmental agreement and concluding with the 1998 establishment of the MAV Local Government Indigenous Network. In Part Two, Councils are provided with a range of information which will increase local knowledge and understanding from Reconciliation processes through to Native Title. With this sound basis, Part Three elaborates on key actions to improve outcomes for Aboriginal people in Victoria. Councils are provided with the how to of cross cultural awareness training, consultation processes, working parties and Good Practice examples of employment, economic development and tourism initiatives. The issues of cultural heritage and Aboriginal representation are tackled along with a good practice Case Study of the City of Port Phillip. The Resource Guide concludes with challenges to Councils on their future actions and provides resources and guides for action. 8

9 PARTNERSHIPS - THE FOUNDATIONS Formal Intergovernmental Agreement 1 Heads of Government at the Special Premiers Conference in October, 1990, called for a report on the means of achieving greater co-ordination of the delivery of programs and services by all spheres of government to Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders. In 1992, Commonwealth, State and Local Government signed the National Commitment to Improved Outcomes in the Delivery y of Programs and Services to Aboriginal and TorT orres Strait Islander Peoples, which recognised, the expressed wish of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders for a commitment to change, and an acknowledgment of their rightful place in and right to contribute to Australian society and to share in Australia s land, wealth and resources. That Agreement acknowledged the planning and co-ordinating roles of Councils together with their responsibilities to ensure an appropriate range of services is provided to meet the needs of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders. The National Commitment also recognised the need for integration of planning processes between ATSIC, Local Government and State and Territory Governments. New Partnerships A new partnership between Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people was signalled with the first national joint conference around the theme, Let s s Work W TogetherT ogether. The idea of a national conference arose principally because of the inclusion of Local Government in the Special Premiers Conference and recommendations of the Report of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody, which call on Local Government to examine its relationship with Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders. The successful Let s s Work W TogetherT national conference hosted by Townsville City Council, on behalf of the Commonwealth Office of Local Government in 1991, was attended by 250 people. The Conference recommended that all State and Territory Local Government Associations be resourced to promote understanding and improved outcomes between Councils and Indigenous people, with the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) taking the lead and providing co-ordination. NATIONAL COMMITMENT TO IMPROVED OUTCOMES IN THE DELIVERY OF PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR ABORIGINAL PEOPLES AND TORRES STAIT ISLANDERS Endorsed by the Coucil of Australian Governments, Perth, Western Austrlia 7 Decenber 1992 ALGA Aboriginal Policy Officer Pat Dixon, an Aboriginal woman and former Councillor at Armidale City Council, NSW, was appointed as the first Aboriginal Policy Officer to the Australian Local Government Association in 1991 with funds provided by the National Office of Local Government (NOLG). Pat Dixon was re-elected at Armidale in 1995 to the position of 9

10 1 PARTNERSHIPS - THE FOUNDATIONS Deputy Mayor and is the first Indigenous woman to be endorsed as an ALP Candidate for Federal Parliament. The Policy Officer position was filled in late 1995 by Auriel Bloomfield, an Aboriginal woman with extensive work experience with Commonwealth and State Departments and agencies including DSS, DEETYA, ATSIC, Attorneys General and State Departments of Aboriginal Affairs and Education. I love my position as Policy Manager, Indigenous Issues with the ALGA. I can see so many achievements being made through the combined efforts of local Councils, Government agencies and Indigenous Australia. Working with Local Government has been one of the greatest challenges of my working life. There is enormous potential in the partnerships between Local Councils and their Indigenous communities and State and Territory and Commonwealth agencies is going to be one of the toughest years we have endured for a long time but Indigenous Australia will be stronger as a result. Auriel Bloomfield - Indigenous Programs Manager - ALGA Auriel Bloomfield ALGA National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Local Government Reference Group A Partnership Approach This group, Chaired by a member of the ALGA Executive, was established in 1992 with representation from each State/Territory Local Government Association, Aboriginal communities and Councillors, ATSIC, Commonwealth Office of Local Government (NOLG) and the Department of Employment, Education, Training and Youth Affairs (DEETYA). The Group meets twice yearly with funds provided by the National Office of Local Government. It is a forum for discussion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Local Government matters of mutual interest to Indigenous citizens, Commonwealth, State/Territory and Local Government, including the development and delivery of programs and policy. 10 Reference Group Aims To provide advice to the ALGA National Executive To play a key role in intergovernmental relations including consideration of issues referred for action from Ministerial Councils. To consider issues referred for action from State/Territory Associations. To identify and discuss key issues of mutual interest to Indigenous citizens, Commonwealth, State/Territory Governments and Local Government To assist in maximising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in the National General Assembly. Reference Group Key Issues to Date Role of Policy Officers National Policy Officer Review

11 PARTNERSHIPS - THE FOUNDATIONS National Policy Co-ordination Employment and Training Reconciliation State Local Government Elections Indigenous Protocol National General Assembly Native Title Future Funding 1 Aboriginal Policy Officers Initiatives at the National level led to a recommendation that Commonwealth Government funds be made available for the appointment of Aboriginal Policy Officers in State and Territory Local Government Associations. Victoria, Northern Territory, New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland Asscociations all have Indigeneous Officer positions. MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer Karen Milward was appointed to the MAV position for three years in September 1993, with Commonwealth funds provided jointly by NOLG and DEETYA. The position is funded by NOLG with the expectation of joint funding from Local Government and other agencies in 1998/1999. As a young Aboriginal woman working towards bridging the cultural gap between local Councils and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities within Victoria, I have encountered many barriers and stereotypes working in this field over the last eight years - three years working with a local Council and five years with the MAV. I chose to work in Local Government due to my passionate belief that if attitudes and processes are going to change in the wider community in relation to Koorie issues in Victoria, this has to be achieved at the grass roots level. Whereas relationships in the past have been virtually non-existent, or they have just been tokenistic measures to address a heated issue at a particular point in time, a number of local Councils have recently participated in many ways to achieve long lasting relationships and realistic outcomes for local Koorie communities and individuals. I believe my work to date with those Councils has established good communication and changes in the local planning and other processes in assisting Koorie communities to achieve self-determination at the local level. These initiatives provide good examples for all 78 Victorian Councils to consider and adapt to their own local circumstances. 11

12 1 PARTNERSHIPS - THE FOUNDATIONS One of the greatest outcomes in Local Government has definitely been the ability to work through all issues affecting the local Koorie community and not just to focus on one which might be easy, or the flavour of the month. Some Councils have even been able to address at one time the many issues that the local Koorie Co-operative is also tackling, and been able to assist in relieving pressures on the Co-operative due to the lack of resources and continuous funding. One issue common across Victorian Councils is the recognition and understanding of Aboriginal cultural heritage issues. Significantly, Councils and Koorie communities working together have been able to harness government departments and agencies working independently in this area to achieve a co-ordinated approach. Similar areas of good practice are identified in this Guide and I would, in particular, like to commend the work of individual Council officers for believing and demonstrating that we can work together to achieve the common goals to benefit the entire community. MAV Policy Statement Policy Position The MAV will assist Councils to strengthen their links with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities with the aims of improving the social, cultural, environmental and economic status of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, raising the profile of Indigenous people within the wider local community and promoting reconciliation between Aboriginal communities and Local Government. Background The MAV has employed an Aboriginal Policy Officer, Karen Milward, since 1993 as part of a national program to promote improved relations between Local Government and Indigenous Australians and to implement the 1992 COAG intergovernmental National Commitment to Improved Outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. MAV Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Project Objectives, Strategies and Actions The MAV has contracted with the National Office of Local Government to pursue the following objectives and strategies: To further Local Government s understanding of issues of importance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people so as to promote: the as of right involvement of indigenous people in Councils as citizens and/or elected representatives; and reconciliation between Aboriginal communities and Local Government. To raise the profile of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander affairs in Local Government and ensure equitable access to Local Government programs and services by implementing strategies to: 12

13 PARTNERSHIPS - THE FOUNDATIONS establish and strengthen closer links between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and Local Government. increase the number of permanent employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Local Government; and increase the level of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation on Local Government decision making forums. To encourage the active participation by Local Government in the mediation and negotiation process with Native Title by: providing Local Government with resources to assist in the understanding of Native Title concepts and its processes. developing regional agreements between Native Title Holders and Local Government to ensure effective management and maintenance processes for the future. The Association has also agreed to undertake the following actions: continue a program of Aboriginal Cross Cultural Awareness Training Sessions for Councillors and Council staff establish new Council Aboriginal Advisory Committees co-ordination of and support to Council Aboriginal Policy Officers develop a strategy to achieve Local Government electoral representation by Indigenous Councillors promote co-operative economic development initiatives between Councils and ATSIC Regional Councils and Indigenous groups/organisations through the development of ATSIC Regional Plans and Community Plans facilitate and promote best practice in Local Government in relation to program and service provision for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities promote recognition and understanding of Aboriginal cultural heritage issues regular liaison with the ALGA National Aboriginal Policy Officer and Aboriginal Policy Officers and Aboriginal Employment Officers within State/Territory Local Government Associations and Councils produce and distribute the MAV Koorie newsletter to Local Councils and Indigenous Communities Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Local Government Network In 1998, the MAV established the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Local Government Network to co-ordinate and consolidate Council and Indigenous communities initiatives and good practice aimed at improving relations and outcomes for Aboriginal people. 1 13

14 1 PARTNERSHIPS - THE FOUNDATIONS MAV Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Project Objectives of the MAV Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Project include: To promote a greater understanding to Local Government of issues of importance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, To establish Local Council Aboriginal Advisory Committees, To conduct Aboriginal Cross Cultural Awareness Training Sessions for Councillors and Council staff, To promote good practices in Local Government in relation to program and service provision for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, To improve and promote employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, To further develop economic development in co-operation with ATSIC s regional community development plans. To promote recognition and understanding of Aboriginal cultural heritage issues, To encourage active participation by Local Government in Native Title issues, To promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation on Local Government decision making forums. Reference Group To oversight the MAV Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Project the Association established a Reference Group with Indigenous, Council and Departmental representatives under the Chair of Bill Hunter, a Councillor from the rural City of Shepparton. The Reference Group was replaced in 1998 with an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Local Government Network and an interagency co-ordinating group with representatives from ATSIC, DEETYA, OLG, Sport and Recreation, Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, Australians for Reconciliation Co-ordinators, World Vision, Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Tourism Victoria and Arts Victoria. 14

15 PARTNERSHIPS - THE FOUNDATIONS The MAV Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Local Government Network 1 The Network will be inclusive of all interested Councils and Indigenous organisations. Councils have been invited to join the Network if they meet, or are actively working toward the following criteria: Network Checklist: Council is participating in the MAV Aboriginal Cross Cultural Awareness Program. Council has established an Aboriginal Advisory Committee/Working Party. Council has prepared a Statement of Commitment to Indigenous Australians and has endorsed an implementation strategy. Council has actioned ALGA General Assembly Indigenous Resolutions. Council is developing Protocols re: Council and Indigenous relations in the areas of planning, consultation, negotiation, cultural heritage, programs and service delivery. Council has a commitment to employ Aboriginal Policy Officers/Liaison Officers/Aboriginal Employees. Council has raised the Aboriginal Flag and hosted various Indigenous receptions and events. Council has initiated a joint project with the Indigenous community. Speakers at the launch of the network. 15

16 1 PARTNERSHIPS - THE FOUNDATIONS Network Terms of Reference 1. To promote positive relationships between Councils and Indigenous communities. 2. To build on the basis established of the MAV Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander project to ensure positive outcomes for Indigenous people in Victoria in their economic, social, cultural and well being. 3. To share, on a statewide basis, experiences, knowledge and resources of Victoria s Councils and Indigenous communities. 4. To promote the political representation of Indigenous people on Victoria s 78 Councils. 5. To facilitate the signing of Local/Regional Agreements between Councils and Indigenous people. 6. In conjunction with Mirimbiak Nations Aboriginal Corporation to (1) disseminate information and (2) assist in the development of Native Title Local/Regional Agreements. 7. To establish a resource data base of Council/Indigenous profiles which will record crossculture training, advisory committees, joint initiatives, employment strategies, etc, for Victoria s 78 Councils. 8. To consider resolutions from member Councils and Indigenous organisations. 9. To provide advice to the MAV Management Board on policy positions and appropriate actions to advance the status of Indigenous people in Victoria s 78 local communities. 16

17 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Aboriginality Definition 2 The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Project has adopted the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission s (ATSIC) definition of Aboriginality, which is also used by Victorian Government Departments and agencies. An Aboriginal individual is a person who: a) is of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent; and b) identifies as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander; and c) is accepted as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander by the community with which the person associates. The Terms Koorie (or Koori) and Indigenous Australians Although the term Koorie is becoming increasingly accepted when referring to Aboriginal people from Victoria, Tasmania and Southern New South Wales the broader term of Indigenous Australians is now more acceptable to Aboriginal people and accordingly will be the term mainly used in this Guide. Flags The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flags were created to represent the identity and cultural aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and are flown proudly at cultural, spiritual and community events. As yet, both Flags have not been given official statutory recognition, but the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation recommended in Going Forwar ward d - Social Justice for the First Australians submission to the Commonwealth Government nment, that the Flag Act (1953) be amended to give official recognition to both flags. The Aboriginal Flag This flag was designed by Harold Thomas, an Arrernte man from Central Australia. It was first flown on National Aboriginal and Islander Day in July 1971 in Adelaide, SA. The flag is significant to Aboriginal people in the following way: the black represents the Aboriginal people for the past, present and future; the yellow represents the sun, the giver of life; the red represents the earth, red ochre, spiritual relationship to the land and the blood that was shed. The flag became a powerful uniting symbol of identity for Aboriginal people across the country when it was flown at the Aboriginal Embassy in Canberra in The Torres Strait Islander Flag This flag was designed by Bernard Namok from Thursday Island and launched in It features three horizontal bands, two of green for the land and one of blue for the sea. These bands are separated by black lines which represent the people. A further symbol of all Torres Strait Islander people is the white dhari - the traditional headdress. Underneath this is a white five-pointed star which represents the five island groups; eastern, western, central, the Port Kennedy and Northern Peninsula areas. 17

18 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Statistics, Reports and Legislations Today, the Aboriginal population in Victoria is small - only an estimated 0.4% of the State's population. It is also mainly an urban population, with most people living in particular suburbs of metropolitan Melbourne, or in and around certain rural cities. For these reasons, Aboriginal people in Victoria are often thought to be invisible, or 'assimilated' with the broader community. According to the 1994 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Survey conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, there were 19,183 persons in Victoria who identified as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander constituting 7% of Australia's total Indigenous population. There were 9594 males and 9589 females. ABS data on the size and distribution of the Aboriginal population can at best be used as indicative information. Many people are reluctant to identify themselves as Aboriginal on government forms as this could imply giving up Aboriginal sovereignty or result in reduced access to mainstream services. Another factor is that Aboriginal people tend to move between communities, following seasonal work or family connections. In the Shepparton area, for example, the Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-operative's health service estimated that the 1991 Census had underestimated the Indigenous population by about 30%. Within Victoria, the Aboriginal population is evenly divided between the ATSIC Binjirru (formerly Yangenanook and Yuroke) and Tumbukka (formerly Ballarat) Regional Council areas. The 1994 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Survey report, Shattered ed Myth, sets out a number of findings which indicate that the majority of poor Indigenous Australians live in provincial and urban areas. Aboriginal people in Victoria, compared with the total Australian Indigenous population, have: The highest rate of long term and recent illness (especially asthma, coughs and colds, diabetes and cardio-vascular disease); The highest rate of smokers; The highest rate of people with no income; The highest rate of physical attack or threat; The highest need for legal service; and The second highest rate of one parent families A younger population than that of the total community. 40% of Aboriginal people in Victoria are aged under 15 years (22% of total Indigenous population), but Aboriginal people have a much shorter life expectancy than the general population - on average 20 years less than non-indigenous people. Larger families - the average Indigenous household size is 3 to 8 people, compared with 2.6 for the total population. 55% of Aboriginal people in Victoria earn less than $12,000 a year. 18 Despite the forcible intervention of European culture, Indigenous people have not lost their core values of family and land. Indeed, Aboriginal communities are striving to maintain and strengthen Aboriginal heritage, and there has been a revival of interest in cultural integrity and language.

19 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING It is important in Councils' socio-demographic analyses that history and heritage are recorded so that current disadvantage of Indigenous people is placed in context of prior ownership, culture and heritage. Councils are referred to the City of Townsville's 1998 Social Atlas as a good practice example acknowledging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in both Townsville's historical development and in current population data. 2 However, while on face value it would seem that Aboriginal people should make up a major client group for Councils, the reality is that there is only very limited access to, and take-up rate of Local Government services by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Royal Commission Report The Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths In Custody in 1989 addressed the limited access to and involvement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Local Government mainstream services. It recommended equitable access and monitoring of targeted funds (Recommendation 200), "That the Commonwealth Government negotiate with State and Territory Governments to ensure that where funds for local government purposes are supplied to local government authorities on a basis which has regard to the population of Aboriginal people within the boundaries of a local government authority equitable distribution of those funds is made between Aboriginal and non-aboriginal residents in those local government areas. The Commission further recommends that where it is demonstrated that equitable distribution has not been provided that local government funds should be withheld until it can be assured that equitable distribution will occur". In 1995, the inadequacy of service delivery was again reported in ATSIC's Recognition, Rights and Reform Report. Recommendation (66) of that Report states, "The Commonwealth Government ensure conditions are attached to its funding of Local Government under the provisions of the Local Government (Financial Assistance) Act to ensure: effective and equitable provision of Local Government services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, households and communities; funding is effectively coordinated with direct program funding assistance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; and greater Indigenous participation in Local Government" 19

20 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Agreements The 1993 Native Title Act, Section 21(a) provides for Native Title holders to enter into Local or Regional Agreements with Governments. These agreements could, in addition to land use, provide the mechanism for broad governance agreements leading to enhanced civic participation of Indigenous people and improved Council service delivery. This broader approach was also endorsed by the 1996 Local Government Ministers' Conference and in the following way at the 1997 Australian Reconciliation Convention which recommended, "The Australian Reconciliation Convention calls on Local Governments to develop harmonious community relationships through local and regional agreements that acknowledges their history of contact and the mutual responsibilities that arise from their respective customs, societies and heritage". Implications for Local Government It is true to say that Local Government s track record is bleak. The focus of recent years on single issues of equitable service access, or employment creation has in the main failed to produce adequate responses from Councils in terms of better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The new strategy of placing Aboriginal Policy Officers in State Associations with coordination by the ALGA National Aboriginal Policy Officer, and high profile involvement of the ALGA Executive, has proven to be a preferable course, now producing outcomes. This developmental approach has replaced adhocery by implementing a strategy based on communication, understanding and cooperation between Local Government and Indigenous communities, whilst acknowledging the broader governance roles of Councils and the mandate of ATSIC Regional Councils. The groundwork over the last few years with the Commonwealth funded Aboriginal Policy Officer Strategy has laid the foundations for Local Government and Indigenous organisations to now enter into joint agreements across a wide range of issues of concern to Indigenous peoples eg. land rights, civic participation, equitable service access, social justice, cultural heritage, employment and economic development. The challenge for 1998 and onwards for Councils is to meet their broader responsibilities in cooperation with Victoria's Indigenous people. The MAV intends that the Local Government Indigenous Network will provide a vehicle for sharing and supporting good practices and promoting ongoing partnerships. 20

21 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Through the continuing work of the MAV's Aboriginal Policy Officer progress will be monitored and reviewed regularly. This must include local service access because as the demographic profile of Victoria's Aboriginal population suggests, people in Aboriginal communities are potentially a major client group for Local Government services. For example: 2 A high proportion of young people should create a demand for youth and recreation services; Larger families and the high incidence of single parent families should mean a demand for family and children's services, as well as public health services, such as maternal and child health and immunisation; Similarly, larger families could suggest a need for some flexibility and responsiveness in technical services areas such as garbage collection and disposal, and regulatory functions such as car parking and building controls; Lower life expectancy and higher rate of chronic illness would indicate a demand for home and community care services at a relatively younger rate; Low wage and statutory incomes would mean demand for financial and other counselling services; A resurgent identification with culture and language, combined with a desire to promote understanding of Indigenous culture within the broader community, could mean demand for access to cultural facilities such as libraries, halls, galleries and neighbourhood houses. Statistics to assist Councils in needs analysis of Aboriginal communities are being produced by Binjirru and Tumbukka Regional ATSIC Councils. For example, data per municipality will be available on employment rates, housing and health status. Once finalised, the completed information will be provided to the MAV (late 1998) and distributed as a hard copy and on-line update to subscribers to this Resource Guide. 21

22 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Binjirru Employment Statistics ABS Census indicate the data that will be available (*CDEP - Community Development Employment Program) - indicate the data that will be available. *CDEP Emp Unempl Not in Not Total % unempl Labour Stated Market East Melbourne Ward City of Port Phillip % South Melbourne % Kingston % Monash % Whitehorse % Manningham/Nillumbik % Banyule % Maroondah % Knox % Greater Dandenong % Frankston % Mornington Peninsula % Casey % Mitchell/South Goulburn % Yarra Ranges % Total % Gippsland Ward South Gippsland/ Cardinia % Baw Baw % LaTrobe % Wellington % Lake Tyers % Bairnsdale % East Gippsland % Total % Goulburn Valley Ward Ovens/Murray % Wodonga % North Goulburn % Greater Shepparton % Total % 22

23 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING 2 ALGA General Assembly Political Participation An important aspect of recognition of Indigenous Australians in Local Government politics has been the participation of Aboriginal Councillors and officers at the ALGA General Assembly - an annual meeting to which all Councils are invited and which was attended by 750 delegates in Financial assistance from the National Office of Local Government and ATSIC has facilitated attendance of Indigenous delegates. Prior to the commencement of each Assembly, a briefing session is held for Indigenous and non-indigenous representatives to update delegates on Aboriginal Local Government issues and to inform debate throughout the Assembly. As a consequence, there has been growing support over recent years for Local Government actions on a range of Indigenous issues. The December 1997 Assembly unanimously supported Indigenous rights: Victorian Indigenous delegates. At the end of yesterday s milestone day in the history of Australian Indigenous affairs, the 1997 national General Assembly of Local government, in Canberra, passed unprecedented motions which recognise the validity of Native Title as well as offering support and access to local needs as part of Local Government s apology for the Stolen Generation. ALGA President, Cr John Campbell, said Many Councils share a vision for reconciliation - many entered into agreements and commitments with their local Indigenous people. Many have also apologised to those of their citizens who have suffered deeply from policies of forcibly removing Aboriginal children from their families. As the third sphere of government, now is the time for us to be part of the healing process. I am pleased that the 750 delegates at this year s National General Assembly of Local Government have approached these matters with an open heart. This is vitally important to the process of building inclusive and cohesive communities throughout Australia. (ALGA Media Release 1997) 1995 National Indigenous Representation, Parliament house Karen Milward: speech on Victorian indigenous issues, 1997 General Assembly. 23

24 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Historic General Assembly Resolutions The General Assembly endorses the following statement: Local Government expresses its deep and sincere regret at the hurt and distress caused by policies which forcibly removed Aboriginal children from their families and homes. It recognises that a great injustice was inflicted on Aboriginal peoples in the name of assimilation and integration and reaffirms its support for reconciliation between all Australians. The removal of Indigenous children from their families has had far reaching consequences, depriving many of contact with their people, country, language and culture. Local Government commits to making all necessary records and assistance available to aid the victims of these policies in their grief and rebuilding of their family histories and place in today s Australia. This motion was carried by the 1997 Assembly unanimously and with only one dissenting vote the Assembly endorsed recognition of the validity of Native Title. At the conclusion of the four day annual Parliament of Local Government, the ALGA President made a formal presentation of the resolutions to ATSIC Chair Gatjil Djerrkurra and Lois O Donoghue, who was herself a stolen child. They were joined onstage by around 30 Indigenous delegates to the Assembly and, at the end of a moving ceremony received a standing ovation. In handing over the Local Government Commitment to Indigenous Australians resolutions, the ALGA President said, This is a sincere statement by Local Government at a national level. The unanimous vote of sincere regret will be matched with the commitment by Local Councils across Australia to make records available as a tangible contribution to making amends. Local Government is also proud to be playing a major role in the current Native Title issue. Councils around Australia are sitting down with their Indigenous communities, getting together, talking together and reaching agreements about how Native Title can work in their area. There has been too much fear and misinformation, and Local Government has developed a program to help Councils and communities understand the issues and how to approach negotiation in a balanced way. ATSIC Chair, Gatjil Djerrkurra, also acknowledged Local Government s continuing work in this area. ATSIC and the National Native Title Tribunal are working with ALGA to counter this misinformation and fear. We commend the ALGA on its Native Title program. Cr Campbell concluded, At this year s General Assembly we have been celebrating the 50th Anniversary of ALGA - Local Government s national organisation. It is fitting that, while Local Government has been celebrating its history, it has recognised its place in the history of Indigenous Australians. 24

25 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING 2 In 1996 the General Assembly resolved the following Statement of Commitment. This National General Assembly of Local Government: reaffirms its commitment to the right of all Australians to enjoy equal rights and be treated with equal respect, regardless of race, colour, creed or origin. reaffirms its commitment to maintaining an immigration policy wholly nondiscriminatory on grounds of race, colour, creed or origin. reaffirms its commitment to the process of Reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, in the context of redressing their profound social and economic disadvantage. reaffirms its commitment to maintaining Australia as a culturally diverse, tolerant and open society, united by an overriding commitment to our nation, and its democratic institutions and values. denounces racial intolerance in any form as incompatible with the kind of society we are and want to be. Further, this National General Assembly calls upon Councils throughout Australia to give practical effect to the above commitments by: actively promoting the benefits of a cohesive, multicultural society. supporting the Council of Aboriginal Reconciliation s Vision for a united Australia, and local declarations of Reconciliation with our Indigenous peoples. promoting access and equity in service provision for all members of their communities. addressing wherever possible the special needs of disadvantaged groups. In addition, in 1996 a wide range of issues, which provide a framework for action by each Council, were addressed: 1. Local Government - ATSIC Relations That Local Government encourage the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) to work with it in planning and providing for Indigenous communities, and acknowledge the need for an integration of management plans by both Local Government and ATSIC. 2. Equity and Access That ALGA should support equity and access by promoting funding to meet the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities specifically in the areas of: consultation housing skills training and education (all age groups) environmental issues 25

26 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING water and sewerage infrastructure and service provision health and legal services aged care and disability services 3. Accountability on Outcomes That Local Government be encouraged to regularly report on the following specific outcomes for its Indigenous residents: employment service provision access and equity 4. Reconciliation Goals for 2001 In the spirit of Reconciliation Local Government will work to achieve by the year 2001: Tourism a review of tourism literature to ensure the inclusion of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history Libraries a review of all public library collections with a view to ensuring that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues are portrayed in a culturally appropriate and accurate manner. (Refer Section Three: Key Actions - Library Services) Civic Ceremony Recognition Statement Local Government of Australia recognises that the Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders are the original occupants of Australia and will acknowledge this at civic events by a statement such as: In the spirit of Reconciliation we acknowledge that we are meeting on the country for which (name of local people) and their forebears have been custodians for many centuries and on which Indigenous Australians have performed age old ceremonies. 26

27 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Good Practice Statement for use by the Mayor or Councillors at Civic Functions held on Council Property. age old ceremonies. Wurundjeri Welcome womin je ka yearmenn koondee bik Wurundjeri balluk welcome to the land of the Wurundjeri people Wurundjeri no no no bodumboun warr koondee nagnak dill-ba-din balluk boor telutkin Wurundjeri people want you to look after and protect the land as their ancestors did before them. The Wurundjeri are the traditional custodians of this land The Wurundjeri territory lies within the inner city of Melbourne and extends north from the mountains of the Baw Baw. geographical feature or whatever sort of animal lived in the area. Woiwurung of the Wurundjeri territory. land and the land is part of us. Dreamtime, we all have creators and believe in our creators, ours is Bunjil. In the spirit of reconciliation we acknowledge that we are meeting on the country for which the Bunurong and Wurundjeri people and their forebears have been custodians for many centuries and on which Indigenous Australians have performed great dividing range, south to the Yarra River, west to the Werribee river and east to Mt The Wurundjeri are known as the grub people, wurun is the river white gum and jeri is the grub found in that tree. Aboriginal tribes were often named after a river or a The Wurundjeri is part of the Kulin nation. In the Kulin nation there are five language groups, the Taungerong to the north east, the Bunnerong to the south east, the Wathaurong to the West, the Kurung westerly neighbours to the Wathaurong and the The Wurundjeri have a social totem, Bunjil the eagle. Bunjil represents a spiritual being with spiritual power. Throughout many parts of Australia Bunjil is referred to as the creator of mankind. Wurundjeri believe that Bunjil created people from the land, that is why we call the land our mother or the mother of creation. The Trees and the birds were also created from the land. Buildings can be established and bitumen can be put on the roads to try to hide the land but the earth will always be underneath. Never can the land be taken away, as the land will always belong to Aboriginal people, as we are a part of the Our story is similar to yours, your story is by your chosen faith, our story is by the It is the traditional custom of the Aboriginal people to be asked for and to be given permission for all people to enter their land - there is no one ceremony common to all Aboriginal communities, each tribe has its own way of welcoming people to their land often Wurundjeri invite people to share in a simple yet very symbolic gum leaf custom. Wurundjeri Elder, Joy Murphy 2 27

28 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING that has nurtured our people for a long time. identity and values. Please take a leaf from the branch nearest you. The offering of gum leaves means that you are welcome to everything between the tops of the trees and the roots of the earth. A gum tree is made up of thousands of branches and leaves and in dividing those amongst us tonight means each and everyone of us become linked symbolically and by sharing our custom you have now joined with us and the spirits of our ancestors to honour the land I would like to take this opportunity to thank the for their invitation to participate in this Wurundjeri see the role of cultural identity and community values as a fundamental starting point. Before we move forward we all need to recognise, acknowledge, understand and appreciate the individuality of community Reconciliation Charters That ALGA, State and Territory Local Governments develop a Reconciliation Charter of Principles and a format for a Memorandum of Understanding on the provision of culturally appropriate services for Indigenous peoples. Agreements That Local Government in consultation with Indigenous communities negotiate the formation of local agreements on issues affecting them and that Local Government undertake to implement those agreements. (Refer Section Three - Key Actions: The Future) Joint Planning That Councils address the provision of services to Aboriginal members of our communities through the development of plans in consultation with members of those Indigenous communities, and that these plans be reflected in Council management plans and service provision. Information Dissemination That Local Government develop and implement a strategy for dissemination of information to the whole community. Specifically, Councils could inform their Indigenous communities by establishing: information sharing days consultative committees electoral training newsletters and media programs. 28

29 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING ATSIC - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission 2 Origins and Structure ATSIC is the main Commonwealth agency operating in the field of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander affairs. It is the premier policymaking body in Indigenous affairs and is responsible for administering many Commonwealth Government programs for Indigenous Australians. ATSIC was established under an act of parliament and replaced the former Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Aboriginal Development Commission. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission was created to give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people a greater say in the running of their own affairs. Through ATSIC s network of elected Regional Councils across Australia, (elected by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people), the views and needs of Indigenous communities are dealt with at a regional level. ATSIC consists of 19 Aboriginal Commissioners: 17 elected and two appointed by the Minister. The Minister appoints the Chairperson of the Board (currently Gatjil Djerrkura, OAM) from the 19 Commissioners. ATSIC has 35 independent, elected regional councils, which assist and advise it, and which advocate regional interests and allocate funds regionally. In 1997, ATSIC appointed the first Commissioner with the responsibility for Local Government. He is David Curtis, a former Councillor from Tennant Creek and a former member of the ALGA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Reference Group. Victoria is represented by two ATSIC Regional Councils, Binjirru and Tumbukka Regional Councils. The Commissioner of Victoria is Geoff Clarke and the two Chairpersons for each Regional Council are Lois Peeler, Binjirru and Bob Egan, Tumbukka Regional Council. Binjirru Regional Council is represented by 11 Regional Councillors and Tumbukka is represented by 12 Regional Councillors. Karen Milward, MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer was elected to the Binjirru Regional Council in ATSIC combines representative, decision making and administrative processes into a single statutory organisation, with it s main objectives to: maximise the participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the formulation and implementation of government policies affecting them. promote self-management and self-sufficiency. achieve greater justice and equity to allow enjoyment of fundamental cultural, social and economic rights. 29

30 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING ATSIC regional Councils representing Victoria: Binjirru Regional Council East Melbourne Ward Chairperson Lois Peeler (pictured) Cr. David Farrell Cr. Karen Milward Cr. Beryl Thomas Cr. Margaret Wirrpunda Goulburn Valley Ward Cr. Paul Briggs Cr. John Martin Cr. Frances Mathyssen Gippsland Ward Cr. Terry Hood Cr. Robert Farnham Cr. Daphne Yarram Tumbukka Regional Council West Melbourne Ward Chairperson Bob Egan (pictured) Cr. Troy Austin Cr. Alf Bamblett Cr. Reg Blow Cr. Ron James Cr. Alma Thorpe Ballarat Ward Commissioner Geoff Clarke Cr. Richard Fry Cr. Des Morgan Cr. Wayne Muir Cr. Bev Peter Cr. Olive Walsh NGINTAIT NGARKAT MARDITJALI LATJI LATJI JARIJARI WOTJOBALUK BUNGANDITJ WARKAWARKA JAADWA TATI TATI WATIWATI JUPAGALK TJPAPWURONG WEMBAWEMBA JAARA BARAPARAPA JOTIJOTA WATHAURUNG NGURELBAN KURUNG KWATKWAT PANGERANG TAUNGURONG WURUNDJERI Binjirru Regional Council meeting MINJAMBUTA DUDUROA JAITMATHANG DJILAMATANG NGARIGO BIDAWAL BRABIRALUNG BRAIAKAULUNG KRAUATUNGALUNG GUNDITJMARA KIRRAE KOLAKNGAT KATUBANUT BUNURONG BRATAUOLUNG TATUNGALUNG Tribal boundaries in Aboriginal Victoria 30

31 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Corporate Plan In November, 1997 ATSIC launched its Corporate Plan for the years 1998 to The Plan outlines the following purpose and strategies: Vision Statement Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities freely exercising our legal, economic, social, cultural and political rights. Statement of Purpose ATSIC will provide governance to strengthen our people and organisations and protect our collective rights, building a sustainable and positive future as move into the 21st Century. Role of ATSIC The Role of the Commission is stated in the objects of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission Act, 1989, and is to: 1. ensure maximum participation of Aboriginal persons and Torres Strait Islanders in the formulation and implementation of government policies that effect them; 2. promote the development of self-management and selfsufficiency among Aboriginal persons and Torres Strait Islanders; 3. further the economic, social and cultural development of Aboriginal persons and Torres Strait Islanders; and 4. ensure co-ordination in the formulation and implementation of policies affecting Aboriginal persons and Torres Strait Islanders by the Commonwealth, State, Territory and local governments, without detracting from the responsibilities of State, Territory and local governments to provide services to their Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents. Principles The following principles are the foundation upon which the Corporate Plan of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander Commission has been developed. Recognition of land and sea rights for indigenous people is a fundamental requirements if reconciliation and social justice are to be achieved. Indigenous people have a right to the same level of services which are provided to all Australian citizens. A high public profile in representing the views of our people and in rebutting misleading propaganda is essential to our interests. All Indigenous people must have access to the means to control and influence policy decisions. The unique cultural heritage and laws of Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander peoples underpin the services and work of ATSIC. The important role and position of women in Indigenous societies must be acknowledged and supported. The most effective and long lasting outcomes are achieved when Indigenous peoples are integrally involved in all aspects of the delivery of services to their community. this includes consultation, negotiation, decision-making, servicedelivery, and evaluation. 2 31

32 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Funding Policy ATSIC s funding policy seeks to promote the distinct identity of indigenous Australians; preserve Indigenous cultural heritage; enhance the rights of Indigenous peoples; and support initiatives not funded by other agencies. Goals for To provide an effective voice for our communities, organisations and people. 2. Strengthen our liaison with community groups and actively seek the views of Indigenous communities to inform policy and decision making. 3. Ensure it has access to comprehensive and accurate information to be able to plan, determine priorities, allocate resources and negotiate with other Government bodies for the benefit of Indigenous peoples; 4. Monitor services delivered by all levels of Government to Indigenous peoples, including spending, outcomes and effectiveness, to ensure they are provided in an appropriate manner; and 5. Negotiate agreements with State and Territory governments, Federal Agencies and Local Governments in key policy areas to ensure the delivery of equitable, efficient and effective programs. 6. Where bi-lateral agreements exist between ATSIC and State and Territory Governments, ATSIC will ensure that implementation complies with the principles of the agreements in the spirit of partnership. To strengthen our people and organisations encourage local community autonomy and control over community affairs, by: supporting the development of regional agreements providing support and training so that community and regional agreements are well managed and lead to empowerment and autonomy; recognise and support the role of Indigenous organisations to provide and deliver services; ensure that the methods of communication we use enhance access to our programs and services by all communities and organisations; employ principles of self-management in the delivery of programs and services; adopt a community development focus in all our work with communities and organisations; increase the participation of our people in the economy; and influence the policies of those agencies which deliver education, training and employment services to achieve better outcomes 32

33 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING To protect, promote and pursue our collective rights develop a comprehensive Statement of Indigenous Rights; aim to be well placed to protect our existing land, sea and cultural heritage rights as well as extend the formal recognition of these rights; maintain the focus on legislative recognition which has been achieved, by: assisting Native Title Claims; ensuring representation for indigenous People at the United Nations and other International forums for advancing and promoting the human rights of Indigenous people; supporting the work on the United Nations Draft Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples; promoting the recognition of Indigenous customary laws, and ensuring legislative protection of Indigenous intellectual property rights; ensure Indigenous people are aware of and can exercise their rights, by using Indigenous media to educate and promote rights, and funding education awareness campaigns on rights for Indigenous peoples; ensure proper representation occurs in all courts in all aspects of law; maintain a focus on the recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aboriginal deaths in Custody and ensure communities are able to review and challenge punitive and discriminatory legislation; ensure Indigenous involvement in Constitutional debate and reform by advising, informing and encouraging participation in this debate from all areas within the Indigenous population; and promote the recognition of the right to use and educated in Indigenous languages in Australia Programs that ATSIC Funds Economic Business Development; Regional Land Fund and the Community Development Employment Projects Social and Cultural Heritage, Environment and Culture Heritage Protection and Environment, Broadcasting, Arts and Culture and Language Maintenance Legal Aid and Human Services Sport and Recreation, Law and Justice, International Issues and Human Rights, Link Up and Indigenous Women s Initiatives Home Ownership, Community Housing and Infrastructure, Native Title and Land Rights, Planning, Service Agreements and Local Government 2 33

34 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING NAIDOC week NAIDOC Week is the highlight of the year for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their supporters. In all capital cities and many regional communities, it is the focus for a week of activities organised by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their supporters. In all capital cities and many regional communities, it is the focus for a week of activities organised by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to increase awareness and understanding of their rich and diverse heritage. Originally, NAIDOC stood for National Aborigines and Islander Day Observance Committee. Over the years, the acronym has also come to stand for National Aboriginal and Islander Day of Celebration. Unfortunately, the national committee no longer exists. In June, 1997, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) which is the major funding body for NAIDOC at the National level appointed an advisory committee to examine NAIDOC and make recommendations on the way it is celebrated in the future. This advisory committee, drawn from key areas such as art and culture, education and reconciliation, is due to report to ATSIC mid to late There are a number of regional committees and key individuals currently involved in NAIDOC activities throughout Australia. Most state and territory government departments with responsibility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs also co-ordinate a range of events. It is now generally accepted that NAIDOC Week falls in the first full week (Sunday to Sunday) during July. In 1998, NAIDOC Week ran from 5-12 July, Activities are held throughout the week, the majority of them on the first Sunday, Wednesday and Friday. The theme for NAIDOC Week 1998 is Bringing Them Home, based on the Stolen Generations Report released in May, Traditionally, the states and territories take it in turns to host the national celebrations. This year, in line with the recommendations of the then National NAIDOC committee, the National NAIDOC focus was to be in Broome, Western Australia. Breaking with tradition, this year s National NAIDOC Awards ceremony took place at a dinner at the beginning of the week - Monday, 6 July, A nation cannot truly advance until it comes to terms with its history. Yet much of Australia s past is still coming to light, as revealed by the report of the National Inquiry into the Separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children from Their Families. 34

35 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission began the Inquiry in August, 1995 and heard evidence around Australia. Its report, Bringing Them Home, was tabled in Parliament on 26 May, 1997 during the Australian Reconciliation Convention. 2 It documents in moving detail the effects of government policies that sought to assimilate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people into the mainstream community. It reveals how, even within the last 30 years, the forced removal of children severed vital connections with families, land, community and culture. Many of the events occurred within living memory and trauma continues to affect many individuals and communities. Bringing Them Home provoked an enormous amount of community discussion and debate. Media reports generated a huge demand for copies of the report. Most who read it were profoundly affected. Individuals, churches, associations and local governments were moved to make apologies to Indigenous Australians for the events of earlier years. Most state and territory governments offered apologies, as recommended by the Inquiry. The Federal government has so far refused to do so. :Sorry Books began circulating throughout the community to allow individual Australians to register their regret. Looking Back A special day for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people was first observed in However, the day s origins can be found earlier still, in the history of a number of Aboriginal and Islander organisations. From about 1924 to 1927 the Australian Aborigines Progressive Association (AAPA) was active in Sydney, under the leadership of Fred Maynard. AAPA held three annual conferences but members were hounded by police and had to give up their work. In 1932, William Cooper from Cummerangunja formed the Australian Aboriginal League in Melbourne in protest at the conditions under which Aboriginal people were forced to live. Cooper drafted a petition on the topic for presentation to King George V. The petition was signed by many Aboriginal people but the Commonwealth Government informed Cooper that presenting it would be an unconstitutional act. In February 1935, William Ferguson, the first Aboriginal person to stand for Parliament, called a public meeting in Dubbo in New South Wales to relaunch the Australian Aborigines Progressive Association. The first day of observance In October 1937, William Cooper presented his royal petition to the Commonwealth Government, asking that it be delivered to the King. The Government was slow to react. On 13 November 1937, Cooper called a meeting of Aboriginal people, suggesting they hold a Day of Mourning to publicise their cause. 35

36 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING The following Australia Day, 26 January 1938, the Australian Aboriginal League and the Aboriginal Progressive Association combined to hold a Day of Mourning. The day marked the 150th anniversary of the First Fleet landing at Sydney Cove. Cooper and William Ferguson planned the First Day of Mourning together. For the protest, Ferguson and JP Patten wrote a pamphlet entitled Aborigines Claim Citizen Rights. It condemned the Aborigines Protection Act ( ) of New South Wales and the Aborigines Protection Board. But, above all it was an appeal for a new Aboriginal policy, full citizenship status, equality and land rights. A permanent day On 31 January, 1939, William Cooper wrote to the National Missionary Council of Australia (NMCA) asking for its help in promoting a permanent annual Aborigines Day aimed at improving attitudes towards Aboriginal people. The NMCA was in favour of the idea and campaigned until 1955 when Sir Paul Hasluck, Minister for the Territories at that time, promised Federal Government co-operation. A national day was set down for the first Sunday in July. In 1957, the National Aborigines Day Observance Committee (NADOC) was formed. The NADOC Committee had support and co-operation from Federal and State Governments, the Churches and major Aboriginal and Islander organisations. In 1974, when all members of the NADOC Committee were for the first time Aboriginal or Islander, NADOC s image began to change. From 1975 onwards, NADOC promoted National Aborigines Week as a time to show the rich cultural heritage of original Australians and their positive contribution to the nation s identity. In 1988, the National Aborigines Day Observance committee became the National Aborigines and Islander Day Observance Committee, to formally recognise Torres Strait Islander people. Throughout Australia, NAIDOC Week and National Aboriginal and Islander Day are observed by Aboriginal and Islander people and their supporters. In 1995, after extensive consultations with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people throughout Australia, ATSIC and the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation recommended in their social justice reports to the Federal Government that it work towards the proclamation of a national day of commemoration for the Indigenous peoples of Australia. The NAIDOC Committee ceased to exist in However, in 1997 a special advisory committee was set up to advise and recommend to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) how NAIDOC should be celebrated in the future. Shire of Yarra Ranges Elders function 36

37 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING NAIDOC in Brief An advisory committee set up by ATSIC to advise on the future of NAIDOC National NAIDOC Committee wound up by the Registrar of Aboriginal Corporations Committee s name changed to acknowledge Torres Strait Islander people 1985 National Committee agreed to change of National Aborigines Week from July to September 1975 National Aborigines Week established 1974 NADOC became all Aboriginal 1957 NADOC was formed 1955 Aborigines Day made national 1940 Aboriginal Sunday established and continued for 15 years 1939 William Cooper from Cummerangunja wrote to the National Missionary Council of Australia requesting the assistance of the Council in promoting a permanent annual Aborigines Day Australian Aborigines League and the Aboriginal Progressive Association combined to hold a day of mourning on Australia Day, 26 January. The marked 15th Anniversary of the First Fleet landing at Sydney Cove 1937 William Cooper presented his royal petition to the Commonwealth Government protesting at Aboriginal living conditions William Cooper called a public meeting of Aboriginal people to suggest a Day of Mourning for the next Australia Day William Cooper and William Ferguson (first Aborigine to stand for Parliament) called a public meeting in Dubbo to relaunch the Australian Aborigines Progressive Association 1935 William Cooper called for a deputation to the Federal Minister for the Interior to ask for a representation of Aboriginal people in Parliament, a unified and national department of Native Affairs and state advisory councils on Aboriginal affairs 1932 William Cooper drafted a petition to King George V. The Australian Government advised that the petition was unconstitutional Cooper formed the Australian Aboriginal League in Melbourne 1927 Australian Aborigines Progressive Association closed down following police pressure 1924 Australian Aborigines Progressive Association formed under the leadership of Fred Maynard 37

38 2 PARTNERSHIPS 38 - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Council Celebrations Activities Councils can participate in during NAIDOC Week: Fly the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flag - Invite local elders to participate in the flag raising Ceremony. Host a reception for the Aboriginal community in the town hall. Invite Aboriginal artists to display their work in local galleries and town hall foyers, etc. Produce local Indigenous street banners and display during important Indigenous events. Host a local concert, barbecue or street festival. Ensure availability of Council facilities for events - sports facilities for carnivals, town hall, libraries, etc. Launch a statement of Commitment, action strategies, planning protocols and strategies, etc. Good Practice - NAIDOC Week Cultural Events - City of St. Kilda, now amalgamated in the City of Port Phillip 1994 NAIDOC Week of Events week like it in future years. the flag raising ceremony and the importance of reconciliation. Pavement drawing, an art exhibition, a writers night, concert and barbecue and an official flag raising ceremony all helped to draw attention to Aboriginal creativity and culture during NAIDOC Week in Melbourne s inner bayside suburb of St. Kilda in The events were well attended by Indigenous and non-indigenous people and served to consolidate the work of St. Kilda s new Koorie Arts Development Officer, Maree Clark. Many members of the general community expressed the wish for another Koorie actor Tommy Lewis, elder and historian, the late Robert Mate Mate, and Commissioner of the City of Port Phillip, Des Clarke, all spoke on the significance of Pavement art decorated Fitzroy Street and The Esplanade. There was a series of incidents when one of the shop traders called for the police five times to have the artists removed, claiming that they were interfering with business. However, shoppers denied the claim and the artists were encouraged to continue. These incidents were unfortunate, but failed to dampen the spirit of the celebrations. City of Greater Shepparton flag raising

39 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Sister Rose from Sacred Heart Mission, who conducts regular lessons in Cleve Gardens, drew together works by her pupils to form an exhibition at the Linden Art Gallery. It was most successful and quite a few of the paintings were sold. Aboriginal poet, John Harding was the star attraction of the writers night. To follow-up Council incorporated an Aboriginal cross cultural awareness program into its corporate plan and planned a large Indigenous component for the St. Kilda Festival in 1995, involving mosaic artists, bands, story telling, dancers, sand painting, a barbecue and an Indigenous writers night during the writers festival NAIDOC Week of Events - We iri We Homeborn - Bringing them Home Flag Raising Ceremony - Monday 6th July at 11.00am - St,. Kilda Town Hall St. Kilda Community BBQ - Wednesday, 8th July at 12noon for local Koorie people. Cleve Gardens is a contemporary meeting place for Aboriginal people. Its history to the local community will be remembered as part of the celebrations. Open House at Winja Ulupna - Thursday, 9th July from 9-5pm Display of recent work by the women at Winja, Koorie women s house. NAIDOC March - Welcoming Them Home - Friday, 10th July at 10.00am Street march departs from the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service Bringing Them Home - The Stolen Generation Report one year on - Friday 10th July at 7.30pm Presented by Port Phillip Citizens for Reconciliation and dedicated to the generations of Aboriginal children taken from their families and communities. Speakers - Sir Ronald Wilson, former High Court Judge, Cr Dick Gross, Mayor City of Port Phillip, Joy Murphy, Wurundjeri Elder, Jacki Wilcox PLUS Just Add Water Choir, Tom E Lewis on didgeridoo, Den The Fish and a screening of the video Bringing Them Home. Concert at O Donnell Gardens - Sunday, 12th July 12-4pm Featuring Breakaway, Deb Morrow, Blackfire, Tom E. Lewis, storytellers, traditional dance and didgeridoo. 2 39

40 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Koorie Day at Gasworks - Sunday, 12th July 12-4pm Sports Clinic with the Fitzroy Stars Youth Club Gymnasium Koorie Films Koorie art and information stalls. at Gasworks Park plus plant stall. featuring The Melbourne Dreaming by Meyer Eidelson. open. Ceramics and Boomerangs - Painting workshop plus Koorie face painting Exhibition with work by Treahna Hamm, Clinton Nain and David Dryden. St. Kilda Indigenous nursery - tours of the Koorie food and medicinal -plant beds Books illustrated Gallery and Bookshop display of Aboriginal books for all ages Opportunity to sign Sorry Books. Delicious Food. Gasworks Ceramics Studio [Refer next Section Reconciliation for other NAIDOC Week activities]. NAIDOC Week 1997 The theme for NAIDOC Week 1997 was Gurindji, Mabo, Wik - Three Strikes for Justice. Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the 1967 Referendum. Gurindji, Mabo, Wik - Three Strikes for Justice. Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the 1967 Referendum was chosen as the theme for NAIDOC Week 1997 (6-13 July) in celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the 1967 Referendum. In 1967, 200 Gurindji people went on strike at Vestey s Wave Hill station in the Northern Territory. Petitions were sent to the Governor-General demanding improved living and working conditions, and the strikers declared their rights to traditional lands. The resulting publicity helped to highlight the social and economic conditions of Aboriginal people throughout Australia. At a referendum in 1967, more than 90 per cent of Australians voted to give the Commonwealth Government power to include Aboriginal people in the census and to legislate for them in all States and Territories. Twenty-five years later in June 1992, the High Court ruled in the Mabo case that the common law of Australia recognises native title, thereby banishing the doctrine that Australia was terra nullius (land belonging to no-one) at the time of European settlement. In December 1996, the High Court ruled in the Wik case that pastoral leases do not necessarily extinguish Native Title ie. that Native Title and pastoral leases can co-exist. 40

41 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Reconciliation 2 What Is Reconciliation? Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their supporters have used the word Reconciliation since at least the 1960 s, as they have worked for recognition and social justice. Reconciliation is about building a new relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians and the wider community, one that heals the pain of the past and ensures we all share fairly and equally in our national citizenship. Eight Key Issues The Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation has identified eight key issues crucial to Reconciliation: 1. Land and Sea 2. Improving Relationships 3. Valuing Cultures 4. Sharing Histories 5. Addressing Disadvantage 6. Responding to Custody Levels 7. Controlling Destinies 8. Agreeing on a Formal Document Essential five steps to Reconciliation 1. Understanding and accepting the history of our shared experience between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider community 2. Respecting Indigenous cultures and identity 3. Recognising that past injustice continues to give rise to present injustices for Indigenous Australians 4. Identifying what more needs to be done and making changes within Australian society 5. Revaluing our citizenship to live together in unity and harmony 41

42 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING The Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody 1994 recommendation...that all political leaders and parties recognise that reconciliation between the Aboriginal and non-aboriginal communities in Australia must be achieved if community division, discord and injustice to Aboriginal people are to be avoided. To this end, the Commission recommends that political leaders use their best endeavours to ensure by-partisan public support for the process of reconciliation and that the urgency and necessity of the process be acknowledged. As the Royal Commission observed, the process of reconciliation will have as a principal focus the education of wider community Australians about the cultures of Australia s Indigenous peoples and the causes of division, discord and continuing injustice to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It is also about responding to today s challenges with a view to making things better in the future. and the Royal Commission concluded: And in the end, perhaps together, Aboriginal and non-aboriginal, the situation can be reached where this ancient, subtly creative Aboriginal culture exists in friendship alongside the non- Aboriginal culture. Such an achievement would be a matter of pride not only for all Australians but for all humankind. Many Australians are concerned by two things: The fact that there is disadvantage and that there seems to be no cure. Until the causes of disadvantage are completely understood and eliminated, those concerns will remain as a national priority, on which the nation will be judged. Nevertheless, it is important that all Australians of good faith continue to seek solutions to these often intractable problems, in spite of any set backs. Not to do so will be to fail not only our generation, but also our children and grandchildren. These challenges have been taken up by the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation. The Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation 42 The Council was established as a result of a unanimous vote of the Commonwealth Parliament in 1991 to promote and oversee a process of reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider Australian community. The declaration of cross-party support for the Council cemented a national commitment to achieve Reconciliation by the year the centenary of federation. This commitment was re-affirmed on 20 October, 1996 in a Parliamentary declaration moved by the Prime Minister, The Hon. John Howard, MP and supported unanimously by all political parties.

43 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Parliament set the scene for reconciliation by recognising that: 2 Australia was occupied by Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders for thousands of years before British colonisation at Sydney Cove on 26 January, 1788 Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders suffered dispossession and dispersal from their traditional lands by the British Crown There has been no formal reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and other Australians By the year 2001, the centenary of federation, it is most desirable that there be such a Reconciliation As part of the reconciliation process, the Commonwealth will seek an ongoing national commitment from governments, at all levels, to address progressively Aboriginal disadvantage and aspirations in the decade leading to the centenary of federation. The Reconciliation Council undertakes a wide range of activities in carrying out this mandate, and produces a variety of publications, videos, posters and other materials. Council emphasises that reconciliation can only be achieved through Australians of all backgrounds and interests working together. Quotes from the Convention: Local Government recognises local and cultural differences. Therefore local government is the best place to do positive work in the community. Alderman Peter Woods, Mayor of Concord, NSW and President of the NSW Local Government Association. Who would ve thought, over recent times, local government would be at the fore of reconciliation. For so many years, local governments have been guilty of some of the worst discrimination against Indigenous people. Now Local Governments are leading the way down the road to reconciliation, again a remarkable turnaround in Australia. Our finalists in the Government category of the Australian Reconciliation Awards are all worthy winners. Ray Martin at the presentation of the Australian Reconciliation Awards, May, Reconciliation means that together we can make a difference. If black and white people work together on local Government projects, we can create a better community for our kids. We can all grow together. Reg Yates, Aboriginal Liaison Officer, WA Department of Local Government. 43

44 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Members of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation APPOINTED 20 DECEMBER 1997 TO 31 DECEMBER, 2000 Evelyn Scott (Chairperson) Sir Gustav Nossal, AC CBE (Deputy Chair) John Abednego Archie Barton, AM Kerry Blackman Sadie Canning, BEM Chairperson of Cairns and District Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders Corporation for Women. Professor Emeritus, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research. Chairperson of the Torres Strait Regional Authority. Administrator of Maralinga Tjarutja; Chairman, Maralinga Piling Trust; Member of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation since Principal Director/Consultant, Indigenous Marketing Pty Ltd; ATSIC Commissioner from Consultant to WA Aboriginal Affairs Department; Member of the WA State Reconciliation Committee. Robert Champion de Crespigny Executive Chairman Normandy Mining Ltd, Member of Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation since Camelita (Karmi) Dunn Dimity Fifer Rev Dr Djiniyini Gondarra Sally Goold, OAM Jackie Huggins Bill Lowah Chairperson of Yilli Rreung Regional Council (Darwin); Deputy Chairperson of Indigenous Housing Authority of NT. Managing Director, Human Resource Training & Consulting Services; CEO of the Victorian Council of Social Services; Member of the Victorian State Reconciliation Committee. Chairman of Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress; has served a long career in Methodist and Uniting Churches. Clinical Facilitator (Casual) School of Nursing, QUT; Chairperson of Council of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses. Deputy Director, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Unit, University of Queensland; Member of Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation since Promotions Manager, Centre for Indigenous Health, Education and Research, Brisbane; Member of Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation since

45 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Ray Martin Journalist; Chairman of the Fred Hollows Foundation; Member of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation since Jenny Mitchell, OAM May L O Brien, BEM Hon Helen Sharn-Ho, MLC Ian Spicer, AM Alma Stackhouse, OAM Marjorie Thorpe Other Members: Gatjil Djerrkura, OAM (ATSIC Chairman) Ray Robinson (ATSIC Deputy Chairperson) Sharman Stone, MP (Coalition) Daryl Melham, MP (ALP) Senator John Woodley (Australian Democrats) President, South Pacific Area of the Associated Country Women of the World; Armidale Anglican Diocese Counsellor. Author, Chair of the Aboriginal Education and Training Council (WA); Deputy Chair of WA State Reconciliation Committee. Liberal Party member of the Legislative Council of NSW; Member of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation since Chairman, Australian Student Traineeship Foundation; Former Chief Executive ACCI ( ); Member of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation since Founding member of the Flinders Island Aboriginal Community Association; Member of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation since Co-Director, Senior Research Officer - Resource Unit for Indigenous Mental Health Education and Research, Dept Psychiatry, University of Melbourne; Member of Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation since Chairman of ATSIC and the previous Chairman of the Commercial Development Corporation; Member of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation since December, Deputy Chair of ATSIC and President of the National Aboriginal and Islander Legal Services Secretariat; Member of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation since February, Government s representative on the Council; Anthropologist specialising in Australian Indigenous culture. Federal Opposition spokesperson on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs; Opposition s nominee on the Council since March, Democrats representative on the Council; Member of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation since November,

46 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Australian Reconciliation Convention The people s movement towards Reconciliation Thirty years ago, Australians came together to support an historic referendum on Indigenous rights. In 1997, people again came together for the Australian Reconciliation Convention in Melbourne on the May, 1997 at the World Congress Centre. The Convention theme, Renewal of the Nation, enabled Australians to be involved in shaping a more confident, mature and harmonious nation for the centenary of federation in participants attended from all sectors of the community, seeking to advance reconciliation as a positive process for the whole community was an especially important year for Australia s Indigenous people as it commemorated the 30th anniversary of when Australians supported an historic referendum on Indigenous rights in May, This significant event saw nearly 92% of Australians voting to give the Commonwealth power to make laws specific to Indigenous people, and to allow for Indigenous people to be counted in the census. A 30th anniversary ceremony was held on Tuesday, 27 May, 1997 and the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation paid tribute to all those people who gave impetus to the modern-day movement for justice and equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. By the end of June, 1997 approximately one quarter of local Councils nationally had passed motions in support of reconciliation. Many had supported recommendations and signed agreements, including Victoria s Councils, which had developed various successful initiatives, projects and activities to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the areas of employment, economic development, tourism, culture and heritage and improved service delivery. The theme of the Australian Reconciliation Convention was: 46 Renewal of the Nation through building better relationships between Indigenous peoples and the wider community to fulfil the Council s vision of: A united Australia which respects this land of ours; values the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage; and provides justice and equity for all. Many seminars were held at the Convention to explore how the recognition and resolution of a range of community and national issues might contribute to the Renewal of the Nation through building better relationships between Indigenous people and the wider community. Participants were given the opportunity to share their experiences, ask questions and exchange ideas in an atmosphere of trust, acceptance, accommodation and mutual respect.

47 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Many people at the Convention represented Local Government and participated in the Local Government Seminar Chaired by ALGA s President, Cr John Campbell. Speakers included: The Right Hon Lord Mayor, Cr Ivan Deveson, AO, City of Melbourne; Cr Pat Dixon, Deputy Mayor, Armidale Council, NSW; Cr Pedro Stephen, Mayor, Torres Shire, Thursday Island, QLD and Mr Wayne Connolly, Chairman, Aboriginal Coordinating Council, QLD. This seminar strongly supported the development of regional agreements between local Councils and local Indigenous communities which would include a framework for ensuring that services are accessible and delivered equitably. The seminar also supported improvements in Local Government accountability to their Indigenous constituents. 2 Australian Reconciliation Convention - Local Government Seminar Panellists Comments The Right Hon Lord Mayor, Cr Ivan Deveson, AO, City of Melbourne Local Government: has a responsibility for supporting and fostering Koorie art forms and the preservation of Indigenous heritage; must take responsibility for educating its employees about Aboriginal issues; has the means to reach and educate the broader community; and must ensure that their community groups are supported appropriately and equitably. Cr Pat Dixon, Deputy Mayor, Armidale Council, NSW Local Government works in communities - places where we spend our lives. We know that there are racists in Australia. There are also many people opposed to racism. A large number of people sit on the fence. Perhaps they haven t thought much about the issues. The challenge is to get these uncommitted people to form part of the majority - to stand against racism and to join the people s movement for reconciliation. The sort of leadership local government can show is a commitment to working cooperatively with Aboriginal people. Cr Pedro Stephen, Lord Mayor, Torres Shire, Thursday Island, QLD Collaboration with community organisations strengthens relationships by considering their goals within the council s corporate goals and organisational structure. Understanding should not be seen as simply purchasing art for decorations to display on council chamber walls. If a council is proactive within its community, then it fulfils its true role - Local Government as the people s government. 47

48 2 PARTNERSHIPS 48 - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Mr Wayne Connolly, Chairman, Aboriginal Coordinating Council, QLD...let me state the obvious, which unfortunately is not obvious to most people, that is, reconciliation must come from the heart not the head. Words must be translated into deeds. The old saying that actions speak louder than words is very true in the reconciliation context. We are waiting for actions that will make us believe that the true spirit of reconciliation has finally arrived in Australia. Australian Reconciliation Convention Report on Government Progress Towards Reconciliation (Edited extracts from Weaving the Threads - Australia Council for Reconciliation) While reconciliation must be a people s movement, leadership and commitment from all governments - Commonwealth, State, Territory and Local - is vital for achieving effective national reconciliation. The Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation Act requires the Council to foster an ongoing national commitment to cooperate to address disadvantage and to provide a forum for discussion by all Australians of issues relating to Reconciliation, and of policies to be adopted by Commonwealth, State, Territory and local governments to promote Reconciliation. Over this term Council s activity has extended to involvement with departments and agencies on a regular basis in each sphere of government. The Chairperson and other Council members have met with State and Territory government officials on subjects as diverse as the provision of infrastructure and services to communities, native title claims, and Aboriginal deaths in Custody. AFR Coordinators also have arranged meetings and attended government arranged events. The participants in the meetings emphasised the need to develop agreements between Local Governments and Indigenous communities which can form the basis of appropriate protocols for the use of natural resources. Local Government Local Governments are responsible for setting the local mood or spirit of the town, shire or city in terms of whether all citizens, regardless of race, find local communities welcoming and inclusive. The level of infrastructure, service delivery and commitment to social harmony in each local area closely affects the daily lives of Indigenous people. Local Government is crucial for the future progress of reconciliation. Over its life, Council has witnessed a significant shift throughout local government in interest and commitment to reconciliation. This is reflected in a general change of approach and in the fact that Lois O Donoghue, then ATSIC Chairperson, was invited to open the First General Assembly of Local Government in That historic Assembly adopted the Council s vision statement, setting a national policy framework for Australia s 740 local councils. Council wishes to record its appreciation for the leadership role played by the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA), and for all those who have contributed to the expanding network of Local Governments who support reconciliation and are taking practical action in their regions.

49 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING 2 Many Councils now fly the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags permanently, and many others raise the flags for National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week. While progress in many regions has been good, Council is aware that pockets of prejudice still remain and some Councils could perform much better. Local Commitments To the end of June 1997, around one quarter of local councils throughout Australia had passed motions in support of Reconciliation. Many had supported recommendations and signed agreements which, among other things: recognise the prior ownership of land by indigenous communities; acknowledge the rights of Indigenous people to live according to their own laws, cultures and customs, subject to Australian law; and support reconciliation between indigenous people and the wider community; collaborative efforts with the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) have included progress towards an Indigenous Australian Accord by the Ipswich City Council. This Accord, to be used by all Ipswich Council s departments which deal with Indigenous people, is a good model for other local councils to emulate and won the community category in the Australian Reconciliation Awards scheme. Challenges The role of all spheres of government in promoting reconciliation should be strengthened by: Establishing benchmarks to measure progress in overcoming Indigenous disadvantage. Commitment to equality of service delivery for Indigenous communities relative to the general Australian community, with regular assessment of outcomes against established benchmarks. Supporting local agreements as a means of reconciling indigenous and other Australians as a local level. Establishing a public record of the actions of governments ie. reconciliation commitments, apologies, practical initiatives and other gestures towards reconciliation. Embedding reconciliation into the lead-up and celebrations of the Centenary of Federation. Centenary celebrations would have no substance without real progress towards Reconciliation. Council proposes to: Set in place more joint strategies with Australian Local Government Association and state Local Government Associations to promote and progress reconciliation. Encourage the permanent recording of Local Council commitments in order to maintain ongoing commitment and practical action over time. Use opportunities presented by the Centenary of Federation to develop local agreements. 49

50 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Australian Reconciliation Convention Statement 1997 A Call to the Nation * We, the participants at this convention, affirm to all the people of this nation: that reconciliation between Australia s indigenous peoples and other Australians is central to the renewal of this nation as a harmonious and just society which lives out its national ethos of a fair go for all; and that until we achieve such reconciliation, this nation will remain diminished. We further declare that reconciliation and the renewal of the nation can be achieved only through a people s movement which obtains the commitment of Australians in all their diversity to make reconciliation a living reality in their communities, workplaces, institutions, organisations and in all expressions of our common citizenship. This convention has been a profoundly moving experience for all of us privileged to take part and has renewed the spirit and determination of all participants to carry on their work for reconciliation. The commitment and the spirit we have all witnessed here demonstrates that the principles and values of reconciliation have become embedded in the hearts and minds of many Australians. This Convention has put reconciliation firmly at the centre of the national political agenda. Despite the airing of differences on specific issues, the convention also witnessed some profoundly unifying statements from political and community leaders who all affirmed support for reconciliation and found common ground in recognising some requirements of reconciliation. These included coming to terms with our intertwining histories, better human relationships and the addressing of disadvantage. We note that leaders across the social spectrum expressed their own personal apologies and sorrow for the treatment of indigenous peoples; this was itself an historic moment. We call on all parliaments, local governments, organisations and institutions to follow this lead with their own form of apology, so that we can all move forward together to share responsibility for the future of this nation. We call on our fellow Australians to join together across this land to build a people s movement for reconciliation of sufficient breadth and power to guarantee that Australia can truly celebrate the centenary of its nationhood in 2001 confident that it has established a sound foundation for reconciliation. We commit ourselves to leave this gathering determined to work with all those prepared to join us in this movement. We call on all Australians not to stand on the sidelines but to demonstrate a commitment to reconciliation by becoming personally involved in reconciliation activities in their neighbourhood, their communities and their workplace. This will ensure that Australians can walk together beyond the centenary of Federation into the next millennium towards the vision of: A united Australia which respects this land of ours; values the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage; and provides justice and equity for all. *(Overview - Proceedings of The Australian Reconciliation Convention: Book One) 50

51 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Local Government Good Practice Examples - Statements of Commitment and Reconciliation Policies and Strategies include: 2 Marrickville City Council - NSW Newcastle City Council - NSW City of Bunbury - WA Lismore City Council - NSW Ipswich City Council - QLD Townsville City Council - QLD City of Greater Dandenong Darebin City Council Maribyrnong City Council Cities of Whitehorse, Manningham, Banyule and Shire of Nillumbik City of Melbourne Shire of Yarra Ranges City of Yarra City of Port Phillip Municipal Association of Victoria Australian Local Government Association 51

52 2 PARTNERSHIPS 52 - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Shire of Yarra Ranges - To Indigenous Australians Yarra Ranges Shire Council recognises: the habitation of this land by local Indigenous people; appropriate services and programs. The Council supports: Of Indigenous People; justice and equality for us all. The Council is committed to: respects the dignity and protocols of the local Indigenous community; heritage and the needs of our Indigenous communities; Indigenous issues; commitments of this statement are upheld. STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT the customs and traditions of Indigenous Australians and their spiritual relationship with the land; the valuable contribution made by Aboriginal people and their culture to the history of the region; the value of the diversity and strength of Indigenous cultures to the heritage of all Australians the principles of equity and access for all members of the Indigenous community to culturally the rights of all Indigenous people as outlined in the Draft United Nations Declaration On The Rights the vision as expressed by the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation of a united Australia which respects this land of ours, values the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and provides promote and facilitate the presentation of Aboriginal cultural heritage in a way that is sensitive to and participating in education processes which enhance the understanding and awareness of Indigenous undertaking and participating in programs and activities which display our ongoing commitment to advocacy on behalf of the Indigenous members of our community to ensure the principles and The Shire of Yarra Ranges Council was the first municipality in the State of Victoria to make both a statement of commitment and apology to its Indigenous people, September, 1997.

53 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING In consultation with the local Koorie community, the Council will: desired by the Koorie community; Scheme; within Melbourne City; acknowledging the guidelines of the Small Business Development Fund; Consider Koorie naming of appropriate places within the Melbourne City; civic occasions; of the land on which the City of Melbourne is located; governance, through such avenues as the Aboriginal Consultative Group; Educate its own employees about the City of Melbourne Reconciliation Program; Investigate the prospect of Aboriginal participation in the Graduate and School Leaver Schemes; initiatives; sphere of interest and responsibility of local government. Acknowledgment and Recognition than two centuries. Australians and their special relationship with the land. own values and customs, subject to Australian law. future of mutual respect and harmony. Australians. Council Advocates in Conjunction with the Koorie Community economic disadvantage; equal rights and be treated with equal respect; Recognition and protection of and respect for Koorie sacred sites and special places; Indigenous settlement of this country; STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT Statement of Commitment to Indigenous Australians by the City of Melbourne - 11 June, 1998 Promote and present Koorie cultural heritage, in a way that is sympathetic and responsive to the outcomes Identify and protect sites of Koorie cultural significance within Melbourne City through the Melbourne Planning Encourage applications from Koorie businesses for assistance in the establishment or growth of enterprises Provide Koorie cultural heritage and business information through its information distribution channels; Adopt a Koorie ceremony of welcome as an integral part of the City s formal ceremonial welcome on appropriate Highlight on the Welcome to Melbourne signage at the main entrance to the City, the traditional Koorie identity Invite participation of and consultation with local Koorie representatives, in the formal processes of local Ensure regular reporting, program evaluation and an annual update and reaffirmation of the commitment to these Seek advice and take effective action on issues of social and community concern, where they lie within the The Council of the City of Melbourne acknowledges that Indigenous Australians were the first people of this land and have strived to retain their culture and identity through the period of non-indigenous settlement, for more The Council of the City of Melbourne acknowledges and respects the customs and traditions of Indigenous The Council of the City of Melbourne acknowledges the right of Indigenous Australians to live according to their The Council recognises the valuable contribution to Victoria made by Koorie people and will work towards a The Council recognises the value of the diversity and strength of Indigenous cultures to the heritage of all The Council of the City of Melbourne recognises that family life is the core of Aboriginal community life and that these family relationships, linkages and obligations involve particular sets of social and cultural obligations. The ideal of reconciliation with Indigenous Australians in the context of redressing their serious social and Indigenous and non-indigenous people working together for a treaty or other instrument of Reconciliation; A commitment to the elimination of racism or discrimination ensuring the right of all our community to enjoy The education of the broader community about Aboriginal heritage and culture and the impact upon it of non- Advocacy on behalf of Indigenous members of our community to ensure the principles and commitments of this statement are upheld 2 53

54 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT PROGRESS STRATEGY Objective Actions Status 1. Adopt a Koorie ceremony of welcome as an IPR Shandwick engaged Complete integral part of the City s formal ceremonial Troupe of Wurundjeri people formed Complete welcome on appropriate civic occasions. Ceremony concept and form developed Complete Ceremony physically developed and rehearsed In progress Ceremony complete and ready Near completion Performance agreement developed Drafted Performance used for the first time Planned Schedule of performance opportunities for 1998 developed Drafted 2. Highlight on the Welcome to Melbourne IPR Shandwick engaged Complete signage at the main entrance to the City, the Contact with appropriate Wurundjeri elder Complete traditional Koorie identity of the land on Research working previously used by CoM Complete which the City of Melbourne is located. Legal opinion sought on proposed wording Complete Statement of welcome suggested by Wurundjeri elder In progress Legal opinion sought on proposed wording In progress Wording approved for use on Co M signage In progress Wording to be considered for spoken use In progress 3. Invite participation of and consultation with local Meet individually with ACG members where possible Complete Koorie representatives, in the formal processes of Re-convene the Aboriginal Consultative Group In progress local governance, through such avenues as the Establish new direction for the group and define projects In progress Aboriginal Consultative Group. Schedule regular meetings with the Group In progress 4. Educate its own employees about the City of Participate in the Workplace Health, Safety and Diversity Expo Complete Melbourne Reconciliation Program. Make information about Aboriginal reconciliation available Complete to all staff, particularly during National Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week ( , flyer, Sorry Books) Develop further strategies to educate employees Not commenced 5. Investigate the prospect of Aboriginal participation Delegate responsibility for this action to Manager HR For approval in the Graduate and School Leaver Schemes. 6. Promote and present Koorie cultural heritage, in Moomba On-going a way that is sympathetic and responsive to the MICOF On-going outcomes desired by the Koorie community. Koorie Heritage Trust On-going Funding for Swinburne University s Indigenous Performing Complete Arts Course productions (Next Wave Festival) Inclusion in Cultural Policy In progress 7. Identify and protect sites of Koorie cultural Economic and Strategic Planning Research significance within Melbourne City through the completed Melbourne Planning Scheme. 8. Encourage applications from Koorie businesses Identify with ACG the opportunities to meet with local For discussion for assistance in the establishment or growth of Koorie businesses to identify opportunities for enterprises within Melbourne City, acknowledging economic development. the guidelines of the Small Business Development Fund. 9. Consider Koorie naming of appropriate places Table suggested Koorie names for Town Hall meeting In progress within Melbourne and City of Melbourne. rooms at the Aboriginal Consultative Group meeting. 10.Provide Koorie cultural heritage and business Identify appropriate information outlets Not commenced information through its information distribution channels. 11.Ensure regular reporting, program evaluation and Re-convene the Aboriginal Consultative Group In progress an annual update and re-affirmation of the Establish regular meetings In progress Commitment to these initiatives. Establish direction for the group for

55 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Municipal Association of Victoria Councils Commit To Racial Tolerance racial tolerance. Councils commitment to fostering tolerant and harmonious inter-community relations. of Indigenous peoples, he said. services and operate in a manner which treats everyone equally, fairly and with respect. The statement endorsed by Victorian Councils is: Local Government in Victoria: regardless of race, colour, creed or origin; their social and economic disadvantage; overriding commitment to our nation and its democratic institutions and values; and Issued: 5 March, NATIONAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT National Convention Centre - Canberra December, 1996 National Statement On Community Tolerance This National General Assembly of Local Government: regardless of race, colour, creed or origin colour, creed or origin the context of redressing their profound social and economic disadvantage overriding commitment to our nation, and its democratic institutions and values effect to the above commitments by: actively promoting the benefits of a cohesive, multicultural society Reconciliation with our Indigenous peoples promoting access and equity in service provision for all members of their communities STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT Victorian Councils have endorsed a statement of re-affirming Local Government s commitment to the principles of MAV President, Cr Noel Bates said the statement acknowledged the diversity of local communities and Victorian This statement complements similar positions recently announced by the Federal and State Governments and ensures all three spheres of government are committed to the principles of racial tolerance, including the recognition By reaffirming this commitment, Victorian councils are demonstrating their willingness and preparedness to provide confirms its commitment to the right of all Victorians to enjoy equal rights and be treated with equal respect confirms its commitment to the process of reconciliation with the Aboriginal people, in the context of redressing confirms its commitment to maintaining Victoria as a culturally diverse, tolerant and open society, united by an denounces racial intolerance in any form as incompatible with the kind of society we are and want to be. STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT reaffirms its commitment to the right of all Australians to enjoy equal rights and be treated with equal respect, reaffirms its commitment to maintaining an immigration policy wholly non-discriminatory on grounds of race, reaffirms its commitment to the process of Reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, in reaffirms its commitment to maintaining Australia as a culturally diverse, tolerant and open society, united by an denounces racial tolerance in any form as incompatible with the kind of society we are and want to be. Further, this National General Assembly calls upon Councils throughout Australia to give practical supporting the Council of Aboriginal Reconciliation s Vision for a united Australia, and local declarations of addressing wherever possible the special needs of disadvantaged groups. 2 55

56 2 PARTNERSHIPS 56 - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING City of Greater Geelong - Office of the Mayor - 7th July, 1997 To the Chairperson and Elders of the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative. overwhelming response was in support of equality and reconciliation. vision for the future which is based upon a spirit of mutual recognition and co-operation. experience. plaque recognising this plant as the Referendum Tree. In friendship, CR GERRY SMITH JP. MAYOR STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT In 1967 the constitution of Australia was changed by way of a Referendum, which recognised the Indigenous inhabitants of the land as Australian citizens with corresponding rights to vote. Through this process the Australian people were provided with an opportunity to voice their opinion and the It is in the spirit of 1967 that we have come together to celebrate NAIDOC Week and to commit to a NAIDOC Week is an important event which encourages all Australians to celebrate with our country s incredibly rich Indigenous culture. It provides us with the opportunity to focus on the great benefits which can be achieved through reconciliation, in a way which is an enriching personal and community In recognition of the 30th anniversary of the 1967 Referendum and in the spirit of reconciliation, I have pleasure in presenting this tree to the Wathaurong people on behalf of the Council and residents of the City of Greater Geelong. The planting of this tree will be accompanied by the delivery of additional Indigenous trees for the area surrounding the Wathaurong Meeting Place and ultimately the laying of a

57 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING the Shire of Nillumbik - 13 March, Officially launched. The Councils recognise: the habitation of this land by local Indigenous people; Indigenous members to the history of this region; with land and water. The Councils support: Of Indigenous Peoples; appropriate services and programs; justice and equality for us all. The Councils commit to: commitments of this Statement are upheld; region, and the current and future needs of our Indigenous communities; programs; community. STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT Federal Health Minister, The Hon. Michael Woolridge MP at the launch of the Statement of Commitment between the Whitehorse, Manningham, Banyule and Nillumbik councils. Commitment to Indigenous People by the Cities of Banyule, Manningham, Whitehorse and the historical significance of sacred sites, traditional names and the contributions made by key the value of the diversity and strength of Indigenous cultures to the heritage of all Australians; the importance of water to all peoples and in particular the Indigenous people s spiritual relationship the rights of all Indigenous people as outlined in the Draft United Nations Declaration On The Rights the principles of equity and access for all members of the Indigenous community to culturally the vision as expressed by the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation of a united Australia which respects this land of ours, values the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and provides advocacy on behalf of Indigenous members of our community to ensure the principles and fulfilment of an education role regarding the historical significance of Indigenous heritage in this implementing appropriate programs and activities displaying our involvement in ongoing national developing and promoting, as appropriate, Indigenous involvement in local events and celebrations of local and regional significance which respect the dignity and protocols of the local Indigenous 2 57

58 2 PARTNERSHIPS 58 - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Strategies for Aboriginal Reconciliation play a significant role in shaping community attitudes. be developed within the community to progress these issues. Reconciliation group has been established to link into the Australian Reconciliation Council. Council s Commitment to Indigenous People and build on the themes identified in the Statement. Cultural Awareness: incorporate an Indigenous welcome into citizenship ceremonies promote and support the annual Wurundjeri festival at Tikalara Park incorporate Indigenous themes in the 1997/98 arts in public places program incorporate elements of Indigenous culture in Council s 1997/98 festivals program develop a program of activities and resources in the Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library promote Blackburn Lake Education Centre Education and information encourage exploration of Indigenous issues in Secondary Schools during History Week 1998 encourage neighbourhood houses to host study circles link interested individuals and community groups to the Eastern Regional Network cultural heritage of the region take part locally in National promotion activities, eg NAIDOC Week Advocacy currently operate, eg Safer Communities, Health and Housing. Recommendation - That: 1. Council reaffirms its commitment to the Statement adopted in February, 1997 STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT Council adopted a Commitment Statement to Indigenous People in February, After discussions with residents and students from local secondary schools following the recent National Reconciliation Convention, a number of initiatives were identified to give substance to the Commitment Statement. Through these initiatives, Council can Following council s adoption of a Commitment Statement to Indigenous People in February, Council sponsored the participation of two students from each Secondary school in the municipality to attend a Youth Reconciliation Congress held at Sienna College. Council officers recently met with these young people and with other community members who had attended the national Reconciliation Convention, to identify strategies that could Students identified a number of initiatives that they would seek to introduce into their schools, such as speakers addressing students on aspects of Aboriginal heritage and experience; the inclusion of significant native plants in the landscaping of school grounds; and the promotion of student exchange programs with schools with Koorie students. Residents spoke of plans to set up study circles within their local church communities. A Whitehorse Friends of It was recognised by students and residents that Council has an important role to play in providing leadership within the community on these issues. Council can initiate many symbolic gestures that will contribute significantly to the process of reconciliation. Accordingly, a number of initiatives have been identified that would give substance to include Wurundjeri people in developing an awareness of the cultural significance of the region. link local community groups to the Australian Reconciliation Council to enable study circles to be established seek regional support to conduct an Indigenous Expo in the city during 1998/99, focusing on the physical and support the continued funding of a Koorie Liaison Officer with the Municipal Association of Victoria raise issues of concern to Indigenous people in local and regional networks in which Councillors/Council staff 2. Council officers continue to support the Commitment Statement to Indigenous People through the implementation of appropriate initiatives in the areas of cultural awareness, education and information and advocacy.

59 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING reconciliation in its letter dated 11th December, 1996 forwarded to all Local Governments. commitment to reconciliation and respect for its Indigenous community. which Indigenous Australians have performed age old ceremonies. A Commitment To Indigenous Australians become signatories to statements of Commitment to Racial Equality. this land and have survived European settlement for more than tow centuries. respect for all. land, their children, their health and their lives. and looks forward to a future of mutual respect and harmony. development of a formal instrument of reconciliation. STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT City of Port Phillip - Civic Protocol For Public Council Functions/Events - May, 1997 This statement was a resolution made by the National General Assembly of Local Government, December, 1996 (Motion 11.2) to be included in all official civic functions. The resolution is to be referred to State Local Government Associations for consideration prior to being referred back to the ALGA Executive. The Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation strongly encourages this resolution as an initiative to forward It is proposed that the City of Port Phillip immediately implement this resolution as a measure of its In the spirit of reconciliation we acknowledge that we are meeting on the country for which the (Bunurong and Wurundjeri) people and their forbears have been custodians for many centuries and on Motion which was also resolved at the national General Assembly relates to Local Governments adopting a statement of commitment to Indigenous Australians and has been referred to the ALGA Executive for immediate implementation. This statement is consistent with previous Council initiatives to The Council of the City of Port Phillip acknowledges that Indigenous Australians were the first people of The City of Port Phillip values its diverse and multicultural community and encourages tolerance and The arrival of Europeans brought massive change to the land and to its Indigenous people. For its part, Port Phillip Council acknowledges and grieves for the loss by the Indigenous people of their We acknowledge the right of Indigenous Australians to live according to their own values and customs, subject to law and we commit ourselves to respecting Aboriginal sacred sites and significant places. The Council recognises the valuable contribution to the Port Phillip region made by Indigenous people the Council supports the Indigenous and non-indigenous people of Australia working together for the 2 59

60 2 PARTNERSHIPS 60 - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Statement of Commitment to Aboriginal Australians - April, 1998 Recommendation that Council will: this report and Statement of Commitment to Aboriginal Australians. playing a co-ordinating role. Statement of Commitment initiation and renewal. stems from past injustice. and significant sites. the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage, and provides justice and equity for all. STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT In the spirit of reconciliation, the Darebin City Council adopted a motion on the 25 November, 1996 in support of working towards reconciliation with the Aboriginal and wider Darebin community. To achieve this end the Darebin City Council will initially need to adopt a statement of commitment to Aboriginal Australians as well as establish a Darebin Reconciliation Working Party with relevant stakeholders. Consultations with relevant stakeholders including Aboriginal organisations and Commonwealth, State and Local Government Authorities have taken place to set the parameters of the reconciliation process as well as oversee the development of the Darebin Statement of Commitment to Aboriginal Australians. 1. Provisionally adopts the Darebin Statement of Commitment to Aboriginal Australians as included in 2. Directs the Darebin Reconciliation Working Party to co-ordinate a community response to the 3. Establish a Darebin Reconciliation Working Party involving relevant Aboriginal and non-aboriginal organisations. The Working Party to be supported by the Social and Cultural Policy Officer, charged with the task of advancing the process of reconciliation both by taking initiatives in that regard and by The Darebin City Council recognises that the land now known as Darebin has been associated with the Kulin Nation and on which Indigenous people have performed age old ceremonies of celebration, The Darebin City Council acknowledges their living culture and unique role in the life of this region. The Darebin City Council recognises the past social and cultural dispossession and the need to redress current disadvantages of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. They provide Australia with a powerful and unique heritage. We recognise and accept our responsibility to promote and protect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The Council acknowledges that present disadvantage The Darebin City Council respects the diversity and distinctiveness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander cultures. They provide Australia with a powerful and unique heritage. We recognise and accept our responsibility to promote and protect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, heritage, sacred The Darebin area is now occupied by people from diverse ethnic, race and cultural backgrounds who share the Reconciliation Council s vision of a united Australia which respects this land of ours, values

61 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING City of Darebin Core Issues League. Darebin has the largest Koorie population of metropolitan Melbourne. periodically. Government s social framework on reconciliation. understanding of Aboriginal people s culture and history by non Aboriginal people. overcome Indigenous disadvantage. statements made LGA s across the country. unique historical position in Darebin. reconciliation, as well as with the Aboriginal and wider Darebin community. Issues. STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT Following the adoption of the Aboriginal Reconciliation Act, 1991 by the Federal Parliament and the Victorian Government s embracing of the principles of the Reconciliation Act, the Darebin City Council is positioned in a unique cultural and geographic position to be a major player in the community on working towards reconciliation. Darebin has been a focus for Koorie activities for more than four decades with the work of Pastor Sir Doug Nicholls and subsequently the Aboriginal Advancement The establishment of the Darebin Reconciliation Working Party will be to advance the process of reconciliation with the Aboriginal and wider Darebin community. The Darebin Reconciliation Working Party will be supported by relevant Council Officers, representatives of the Aboriginal community as well as diverse members of the wider Darebin Community. The Working Party will report back to Council The Darebin Statement of Commitment is an outcome of the extensive consultations conducted with major Aboriginal organisations in the Darebin area. It is also informed and reinforced by the Victorian An important aspect of the Victorian Government s commitment to reconciliation is to assist Aboriginal communities to become self-managing and, at the same time, to promote an increased awareness and The Federal Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Senator The Hon. John Herron, in a poignant lecture on reconciliation stated that we cannot condone the brutality visited upon Indigenous Australians after European settlement. As a community, we should not only recognise these injustices, but we should be seeking to remedy the deleterious impact of past injustices by working together to The Darebin Statement of Commitment is formalised within the State and Federal Government s approach on reconciliation. More importantly, Aboriginal organisations and leaders informed the basis of the Darebin Statement of Commitment. The Darebin Statement of Commitment is also consistent with other The adoption of the Darebin Statement of Commitment will maximise the Koorie communities involvement in the Reconciliation process as well as send an unequivocal message of recognition of their The adoption of the Darebin Statement of Commitment to Aboriginal Australians will situate the Council on par with our peers in the Local Government arena and will enable us to establish partnerships and collaboration with both the State and Federal Government bodies working towards the achievement of The City of Darebin allocated $45,000 within the 1997/98 Budget for Reconciliation 2 61

62 2 PARTNERSHIPS 62 - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Aboriginal Recognition Statement - May, 1998 years. language and culture was strained to breaking point. understanding, and respect for all Aboriginal people in the municipality. in partnership. past and the future. STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT The City of Yarra wishes to recognise and acknowledge the history of this land and it s Aboriginal people. The City of Yarra recognises that the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation are the original inhabitants of this land and have a continuing association with it. This relationship reaches back for thousands of The Wurundjeri are the traditional custodians, and have an ongoing spiritual relationship with the land. We regretfully acknowledge that as part of the colonisation of Australia, Aboriginal people were dispossessed of their lands in the City of Yarra. Many lives were lost. The connection with the land, The City of Yarra also acknowledges the injustices of our more recent past and seeks to promote We need to improve our understanding of Aboriginal issues. We need to find new ways to work together As the first steps in this process a City of Yarra Aboriginal Advisory Group has been established to increase Aboriginal participation in municipal affairs and to increase the responsiveness of Council to Aboriginal interests. The City of Yarra also makes a commitment to work with the community to research stories and sites of significance for Aboriginal people, supporting them to retell their histories. Birrarung as spoken in the Woiwurrung language is the Aboriginal name for the Yarra River, meaning The River of Mists. This river has witnessed many changes, through it s mists are glimpses of both the The City of Yarra aspires to work towards a better future, a future of mutual respect and harmony.

63 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Commitment to Indigenous Australians - 7 July, 1995 people of this land. They have survived over two centuries of persecution and neglect. their health and their lives. of land, family and livelihood. may feel welcome, free and accepted. community. Indigenous settlement in this country. community for the building of a truly just and free society to which we all aspire. future. Commissioner and for Elaine Taylor, Chairperson of the Aboriginal Co-operative Ltd. STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT The Council of the City of Greater Dandenong acknowledges that Indigenous Australians are the first We acknowledge and grieve for the losses of the Indigenous Australian people, their land, their children, We acknowledge the right of Indigenous Australians to live according to their own values and customs. The newly created City of Greater Dandenong is a diverse community of people, many of whom have immigrated from all over the world to make their home here. Others have sought refuge in this land, finding it a safe haven. They share with Indigenous Australians the experience of dispossession, the loss As the Council of this new City, we pledge ourselves to continue working to create a community where all We commit ourselves to work for the elimination of every form of racism or discrimination in our We commit ourselves to respect identified Aboriginal sacred sites and special places and assist with the education of the broader community about Aboriginal heritage and culture and the facts of non- On behalf of this multicultural city, we commit ourselves to support and work with our Indigenous We honour the wisdom and strength of the Aboriginal culture and spirit, to which we look in shaping the Signed for and on behalf of the Council of the City of Greater Dandenong by Ian Cathie, Chief Signed for and on behalf of the Indigenous community of the City of Greater Dandenong by Vera Wigg 2 63

64 2 PARTNERSHIPS 64 - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Nillumbik Shire Council recognises: Nillumbik Shire Council apologises: and has determined that such occurrences should not be repeated. Nillumbik Shire Council acknowledges: land and traditional culture. NILLUMBIK SHIRE COUNCIL COMMITS ITSELF TO AN ONGOING ABORIGINAL RECONCILIATION Nillumbik Shire Council Confirms Nillumbik Shire. Shire. the richness of traditional language, including the name of this Shire. political endeavours. the inherent contribution made to the history and development of this Shire. Nillumbik Shire Council Note: Aboriginal people Nillumbik Shire Council Upholds: and/or is a party to. and Local Governments of this country issues in a constructive and non-discriminatory way. Federal and State Government Aboriginal Heritage Legislation. STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT Statements of Recognition, Apology, Acknowledgment and Commitment May, 1998 that the Wurundjeri William clan of the Wurundjeri people and Kulin Nation were the occupiers and traditional owners of the land that now comprises Nillumbik Shire prior to European settlement. on behalf of its residents, unreservedly and sincerely, for the pain, the grief and the suffering experienced by Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as a result of past laws, government policies, actions and attitudes. The Council expresses deep sorrow that these actions and attitudes have occurred the ongoing effects of such practices on the lives of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who continue to be disadvantaged by the effects of their displacement from their families, their the distinctive and special spiritual and material relationship that Aboriginal people have with the land and the water, including trees, rocks, hills and valleys, creeks, rivers and flood plains of the the historical and environmental significance of sacred and special sites and features within the the value of the diversity and strength of Indigenous people and cultures to the heritage of all Australians, particularly their past custodianship of the land and water, and the contribution made to many areas including academic, agricultural, artistic, economic, legal, religious, social, sporting and reports and enquiries to Federal Parliament by the Human Rights Commission regarding the status of the rights of all people including Indigenous people as outlined in the United Nations Declaration and Covenants on Human Rights, the United Nations Draft Convention on the Rights of Indigenous People, and all other Human Rights conventions, treaties, and documents that Australia has ratified the principles of Human Rights, Social Justice and Equal Opportunity, as legislated by Federal, State the MABO and WIK decisions of the High Court of Australia; and will address genuine Native Title

65 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Nillumbik Shire Council Will: representatives and disadvantage fulfil an educative role in promoting the principles of reconciliation include Aboriginal recognition in civic activities promote tangible opportunity or opportunities to redress disadvantage initiate projects to promote awareness of Aboriginal history develop an ongoing celebration of the Wurundjeri and wider Aboriginal culture sites for the community. The Recommendations Reconciliation initiatives. funded by Council. and any other dates which may be deemed appropriate. Council will facilitate the employment and/or traineeship of an Aboriginal person plaques, etc. memorials, plaques, etc be constructed and/or facilitated in public space. significant sites to be identified, protected and described appropriately. significant environmental sites be reinstated. traditional place names to be used as appropriate. a Wurundjeri historical project to be commissioned. culture. Council to promote Reconciliation throughout its community funding a regular Wurundjeri and other Indigenous culture event. project. etc. National Reconciliation period. a regular reviewing of Council s Reconciliation achievements. STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT consult with and develop a positive and ongoing relationship with the Wurundjeri people and their positively advocate on behalf of Aboriginal residents where there is a need to redress past wrongs identify, preserve and protect sites of Indigenous significance, and where appropriate, describe these It is recommended that Nillumbik Shire Council give consideration to the following real and tangible prior occupation of the Wurundjeri people to be acknowledged in Council meeting protocol Council to ensure that Councillors and staff have adequate understanding of Reconciliation issues. Council to require acknowledgment of the Wurundjeri people at events which are supported and/or the Aboriginal Flag to be flown on May 27th (Reconciliation day) and throughout NAIDOC Week. Also on Australia Day - but not to the exclusion of the Australian Flag, National Sorry Day, May 26th Council to require specific exhibition space at libraries, the Shire offices, parks and gardens, for the purposes of promoting Reconciliation documents, posters, history, cultural material, information funding of a resource/educational kit which promotes council policy and Aboriginal history and a gift of land to the Wurundjeri people for the purposes of joint community use and environmental a community art project with a permanent outcome eg. pathway, ornamental wall, outdoor sculpture, the Nillumbik Reconciliation committee to continue as a Council sub-committee until the end of the 2 65

66 2 PARTNERSHIPS 66 - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING people s spiritual relationship to land and water. relationship to the land, their children, their health and their lives. Of Indigenous Peoples. look forward to a future of mutual respect and harmony. respected, experience freedom and contribute to the life of the City. Maribyrnong City Council by Cr. Sara Coward, Mayor - 29 May, TOWARDS RECONCILIATION - ACTION PLAN MAY, 1998 Introduction awareness and understanding of the Reconciliation process in local communities. As defined by the Australian Reconciliation Convention in 1997, reconciliation is about... Indigenous Australians. facilitating the reconciliation process. Indigenous Australian in the Maribyrnong Area STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT Statement of Commitment to Reconciliation with Indigenous Australians - 29 May, 1998 The Maribyrnong City Council acknowledges that Indigenous Australians are the first people of this land and that they have strived to retain their culture and identity through two centuries of non-indigenous settlement. We acknowledge and respect their values and customs, the traditional names, and the importance of Indigenous For its part the Maribyrnong City Council acknowledges and grieves for the loss by the Indigenous people of their We recognise the rights of Indigenous Australians as outlined in the Draft United Nations Declaration On The Rights We recognise the contributions made by Indigenous people to the history of the western region of Melbourne and Maribyrnong is a City of many diverse cultures. People have come to this City to make their home or to seek refuge in a safe place. They share with Indigenous Australians the experience of dispossession or the loss of land, family and livelihood. As the Council of this City, we commit ourselves to working to create a place where all are welcome, Signed on behalf of the Aboriginal community by Joy Murphy, Wurundjeri Elder and Signed for and on behalf of the This Action Plan will guide Maribyrnong City Council s work on the process of Aboriginal Reconciliation over the next three years. It recognises that local government has an important leadership role in generating greater... building a new relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians and the wider community, one that heals the pain of the past and ensures we all share fairly and equally in our national citizenship. Without an understanding and knowledge of history, both Indigenous and non-indigenous Australians will find it difficult to move forward in a way that helps to heal the pain of past injustices and also affirms the identity of The lack of an Aboriginal organisational base in the west of Melbourne, such as the co-operatives or corporations that can be found in other regions, has meant that Aboriginal identity in the west has not been well recognised by governments and non-indigenous Australians. In recent times the Living Museum of the West at the Pipemakers Park has helped to change this perception. The Living Museum has provided an important base for Aboriginal Cultural Officers who have worked in the west and has sponsored landmark initiatives such as the Still Here exhibition that have been instrumental in helping to reclaim Aboriginal heritage and culture in the west. Council is in a unique position to provide leadership at the local level and work in collaboration with other community organisations and neighbouring councils to increase understanding and knowledge of Indigenous cultural identity in the west of Melbourne. This action plan establishes this as a primary role for Council in The Indigenous peoples who lived in the Maribyrnong area prior to European settlement were in the northern areas mainly linked tot he Marin.balluk clan, part of the Woiwurrung tribe. Currently the Wurundjeri tribe of the Kulin

67 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Protection Act (Part IIA, 1984) Census. Indigenous population are shaping the future Indigenous culture of region. PRINCIPLES reconciliation is a process which Council engages in with the Aboriginal community; recognition over time; rights and their distinctive place as the original inhabitants of Australia; Indigenous Australians; needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. KEY ACTIONS Reconciliation with Indigenous Australians. 1 RESPECT INDIGENOUS CUL To achieve this we will: heritage classification for those that may be of heritage significance. 4. Continue the research into Aboriginal social history in the west initiated by the Culture and STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT Nation is recognised as being the remaining traditional custodians of land in the western suburbs of Melbourne. The Wurundjeri Tribal Land Compensation and Cultural Heritage Council has legislative responsibility for cultural heritage management and protection under the Commonwealth Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage The Australian Census (1996) estimates there are now approximately 2,500 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People living in the western region of Melbourne, far fewer than the number of Aboriginal people living in the area pre European contact. Of these 250 person live in the City of Maribyrnong, representing 0.42 per cent of the City s population. The number of Aboriginal people living in the City of Maribyrnong has increased significantly since the This action plan recognises that the west of Melbourne has a unique Indigenous heritage and that the city s current Maribyrnong City Council s work towards Reconciliation to the year 2001 will be guided by the following principles: the reconciliation process requires trust, mutual respect and a commitment to build understanding and reconciliation involves recognising the citizenship rights of Indigenous Australians including specific Indigenous the reconciliation process requires that we recognise that past injustices continue to give rise to present injustices for Indigenous Australians and that change is required to redress the disadvantages that exist for reconciliation involves working in practical ways to ensure that organisations are accessible and respond to the Over the next three years Council will implement the key actions listed below as a way of moving towards RESPECT INDIGENOUS CULTURAL IDENTITY AND PROTECT INDIGENOUS HERITAGE. 1. Identify and implement ways in which places that have significance for the Aboriginal community in the west can be preserved and publicly acknowledged. This could include, exploring with the current owners of places that have been a focus for Aboriginal community in the past, the use of signs or markers to acknowledge that these sites were important for Aboriginal people who came to the city to work and live; 2. Further investigate archaeological sites and locations that have significance for Aboriginal people and seek 3. Develop local policy to afford protection to all Aboriginal sites, places and objects within the municipality, based on an Aboriginal heritage study or the cultural resource management grid map and guidelines provided by Aboriginal Affairs Victoria. A Heritage Overlay and Schedule will map and list key Aboriginal sites, places and objects to ensure they are protected through the Maribyrnong Municipal Planning Scheme. Public Spaces Branch and undertaken by Reg Blow and Larry Walsh so that a grater understanding of Aboriginal people who have lived and worked in the West of Melbourne can be achieved. Ways in which 2 67

68 2 PARTNERSHIPS 68 - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING this history will be acknowledged include: people; Maribyrnong area; This will be done each year during National Reconciliation Week or NAIDOC Week. consultation with Indigenous people. 2. IMPROVE CULTURAL UNDERST AUSTRALIANS IN THE MARIBYRNONG COMMUNITY. To achieve this we will: for group leaders and links to other government and community networks. languages. 3. Organise a cultural awareness training session for Council officers during and the Reconciliation process. 5. Facilitate the telling of dreaming stories and the display of art at local libraries. 6. Involve Indigenous people and cultural events in the Maribyrnong Festival 3. RECOGNISE AND ADV To achieve this we will: 1. Develop protocols to be used by Council in a range of situations including: Reconciliation Week; as citizens. This particularly applies to Indigenous people who were born before Australians to participate in local councils. 4. RECOGNISE THE NEED FOR HEALING IN RESPONSE TO THE CONSEQUENCES OF P To achieve this we will: the development of the Sacred Healing Garden that would: STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT linking to InfoWest Website (the Community Information Network) and telling the story of Aboriginal the publication of research findings and distribution to community groups and schools in the formally acknowledging the achievements of Aboriginal people associated with the west of Melbourne. 5. Recognise Indigenous Heritage through the naming of places and streets in the City of Maribyrnong; in TURAL UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN INDIGENOUS AND NON-INDIGENOUS 1. Support the development of Reconciliation groups in the Maribyrnong community. In particular, Council will provide access to meeting spaces, links to resources and study circle facilitators, and facilitate training 2. Organise Reconciliation study circles of six weeks duration with local residents in at least three community 4. Facilitate the organisation of a Reconciliation forum during NAIDOC Week in the western region of Melbourne, in conjunction with neighbouring councils. The forum will include speakers on relevant issues RECOGNISE AND ADVANCE ANCE THE CITIZENSHIP RIGHTS OF INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIANS. flying the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flag each year during NAIDOC Week and National acknowledge Indigenous people and their relationship to the land at formal Council events 2. Enable Indigenous people to participate, if desired, in Council s Citizenship Ceremonies to affirm their status 3. Organise an annual education forum for young Indigenous Australians, in conjunction with neighbouring Councils, to raise awareness of the role of local government and to encourage young Indigenous RECOGNISE THE NEED FOR HEALING IN RESPONSE TO THE CONSEQUENCES OF PAST INJUSTICES. 1. Support initiatives that facilitate the transfer of knowledge and understanding between older Indigenous Australians and Indigenous young adults and children. This includes exploring opportunities for funding be a place for learning about the special significance of the land to Indigenous cultural identity

69 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING reinstate natural elements of the landscape in the local area; sponsoring community cultural events and exhibitions. 5. ADVOCATE FOR THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASPIRA INDIGENOUS PEOPLE IN THE WEST OF MELBOURNE To achieve this we will: Region Councillor and CEO Forum. 6. ENSURE CO-ORDINATION AND THE SHARING OF RESOURCES SO THA OUTCOMES OF THE RECONCILIA To achieve this we will: neighbouring Councils: Maribyrnong River and from one municipality to another; boundaries and can be best achieved by working together; the west of Melbourne; without experiencing intense demand for participation from each council. Implementation measures will be adopted to ensure the plan is implemented: actions outlined in the Plan. year to provide leverage for the initiatives outlined in the Plan. local councils. STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT include symbols of reconciliation between Indigenous and non-indigenous Australians. 2. Support the work of local organisations, such as the Living Museum of the West, as places which provide a cultural reference point for Indigenous people in the west. This support will take the form of advocacy for cultural officers to be based at the Living Museum; joint research and community education initiatives; TE FOR THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASPIRATIONS OF 1. Proactively encourage the employment of Indigenous people in Council by working with the Indigenous Strategies Branch of DEETYA S to develop training positions for young people and to advertise jobs 2. Conduct an audit of services and programs for Indigenous people and the extent to which these are accessed by Indigenous people. This will be an initiative of the Regional Reconciliation Local Government Working Group and undertaken through the strategic planning working group of the Western Municipal 3. Proactively encourage Indigenous companies and businesses to tender for Council contracts. TION AND THE SHARING OF RESOURCES SO THAT T WE MAXIMISE THE OUTCOMES OF THE RECONCILIATION PROCESS IN THE WEST OF MELBOURNE. 1. Establish a Regional Reconciliation Local Government Working Group with representation from to ensure that local reconciliation projects are developed in a complementary way. For example, heritage trails and environmental initiatives could be developed so as to provide continuity along the that recognises that Indigenous cultural identity and the process of Reconciliation cross municipal to share information and develop joint reconciliation initiatives (such as the community forums) across to enable key Indigenous representatives to participate more broadly in the Reconciliation process The actions described in this plan will be implemented over the three years to The following The culture and Public Spaces Branch of Council will be responsible for the implementation of the Council will allocate $15,000 in the first year (1998/99) and an appropriate allocation each subsequent Council will proactively seek funding from other levels of government and philanthropic sources for the development of reconciliation initiatives within the City of Maribyrnong and in conjunction with other Council will work with and utilise the resources available in the community to support the reconciliation process. These include Australians for Reconciliation, local reconciliation groups, Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, and the Municipal Association of Victoria among others. 2 69

70 2 PARTNERSHIPS 70 - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Local Government Reconciliation Program - Council Projects Federal reconciliation funding grants have assisted councils to take action through a range of diverse projects to promote knowledge and understanding of Indigenous issues. The former Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Robert Tickner, established an agreement with the Australian Local Government Association to fund Reconciliation projects through Local Government in 1994 and the program continued through 1995/1996. The ALGA encouraged Councils to apply for projects to start in NAIDOC Week, and also for projects to continue through to the end of each year. These projects aimed to involve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Local Government and to ensure participation of non-aboriginal people in the reconciliation process. The ALGA funded 49 initiatives nationally in 1994 and Some of the Victorian successful projects are highlighted below. Each project in 1994 was funded to the maximum of $10,000. In 1995/1996 due to only $15,000 allocated to Victoria, six projects were funded to a maximum of $4,000. These were: City of Greater Dandenong for the development of a Koorie Resource Kit; East Gippsland Shire Council for NAIDOC Week Celebrations to commemorate the first Directional Signage for the Bataluk Cultural Trail; City of Greater Geelong to develop the Wathaurong Aboriginal Youth Art Program - Steampacket Market Koorie Stall Project, supported by brochures and student demonstrations of arts and crafts; Horsham Rural City Council s promotion of the Koorie Art/Craft Festival to involve art exhibits, Koorie dancers and cultural performances; City of Kingston - Kingston Festival to highlight Koorie performers and art and craft and information stalls; and City of Port Phillip - We re e Home Born - A Major Aboriginal Arts Exhibition and Associated Cultural Events in St. Kilda. City of Casey - (formerly City of Berwick) - Adventure Camp barriers to interaction. Council and the Dandenong and District Aboriginal Co-operative. and new initiatives for young peoples programs. A January adventure camp was planned for 10 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and 10 young people from the broader community, with a total of five leaders from both communities. Its aim was two-fold - to boost self-esteem and motivation through adventure activities such as camping, rock-climbing, and abseiling, and to sensitise the participants to each others needs, breaking down The City of Berwick s youth camp, 4-6 January 1995, resulted in an increase of young Indigenous people using Council programs and increased contact between the Council has noted an increased referral of clients to a broad range of welfare services

71 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING City of Casey - Awareness Training hailed as being a great networking exercise. The workshop resulted in increased awareness and understanding of issues of importance to Indigenous people residing in the municipality. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics figures, 259 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people live in the area and a community profile has been developed by Council. History of the Yorta Yorta People - City of Greater Shepparton (formerly Rodney Shire Council) A permanent exhibition of local artefacts and historic photographs in the Fruit Connection tourist centre at Daish s Paddock is helping to highlight the rich culture of the Yorta Yorta people of the Shepparton area. the Goulburn River over the last 5,000 years or more. their use and origins. built at Rumbalara. draw public attention to the Aboriginal heritage of the district. and cooperation between Council and the Aboriginal community. Aboriginal Cultural Centre - City of Springvale, Victoria An awareness workshop late December, 1995 aimed to raise Council staff s understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues and culture was The exhibition pieces together the history of the Aboriginal people who lived along The artefacts have been provided by the Shepparton Aboriginal Arts Board, various individuals and the Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-operative. Detailed labelling explains The site of the Fruit Connection, at Daish s Paddock at Mooroopna, has great significance to the Yorta Yorta people. After the Aboriginals walked off the mission settlement of Cummerangunga on the Murray in 1939, many camped at the Flats and Daish s Paddock while they worked on the orchards and in the canneries. The older people hold vivid memories of the days at Daish s Paddock, before housing was Council has acknowledged this association by installing a flag pole and flying the Aboriginal flag over the site. It also has employed Aboriginal people on the landscaping, fencing and further development of the site. The exhibition project is part of an on-going effort to maintain Aboriginal involvement with the place and to The elders from Rumbalara attended the opening of the exhibition, along with Councillors and officers of the Shire of Rodney and local Members of Parliament. A commemorative plaque was unveiled and TAFE students from the Koorie Art course mounted a comprehensive display of their professional work to support the launch. The interaction between the Council and different groups within the local Aboriginal community in organising the exhibits has, without doubt, contributed to greater trust The relocation of a community hall for the use of the City of Springvale s Aboriginal community serves a two-fold purpose. It provides a meeting place, as well as an opportunity for the Aboriginal people to present their culture and history to non- Aboriginal people as the new location, Braeside Metropolitan Park, gets more than 370,000 visitors each year. 2 71

72 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING The City of Springvale is a multicultural community which includes people from more than 90 countries and approximately 50 formally organised groups. There are about 1,000 Aboriginal families which, up until the community hall s relocation, have not had proper community meeting facilities. Council donated the hall, formerly located at Garfield Reserve, and is paying for its relocation and refurbishment. The Aboriginal community negotiated the removal and re- establishment with Melbourne Parks and Waterways. National Reconciliation Week Grants Program /1997 The ALGA National Reconciliation Week Grants program was a new initiative of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation. Each State Association received $7,000 to promote Reconciliation Week through joint initiatives between Councils and their Indigenous communities. Three Victorian Councils and the Municipal Association of Victoria were successful in their submissions for funding under this program to coordinate and promote events to celebrate NAIDOC Week (9-14 July, 1996). City of Port Phillip - Elders function and launch of the Aboriginal Exhibition Shire of Yarra Ranges - Elders Function City of Greater Dandenong Koorie and Council luncheon. MAV - Koorie Issues Newsletter for Councils and Indigenous communities ALGA Local Councils Remembers Program The Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation allocated $15,000 to each state/territory Local Government Association to undertake projects to establish appropriate memorials to recognise and commemorate Aboriginal people and significant events. 72 MAV and the Shire of Yarra Ranges.) how to best address Aboriginal cultural heritage issues. The Shire of Yarra Ranges received $10,000 to commemorate the Aboriginal servicemen and women who served in the Armed Forces. This project employed Angela Murphy, Aboriginal Project Officer to research and collate relevant information and photographs to be included in a Photographic Exhibition and a published document for the Council and the wider community. This mobile exhibition is currently touring several Councils in Victoria. (The Document is available from the The City of Darebin received $5,000 to raise the profile of important Aboriginal Sites of significance in the Darebin region to the wider community. This project employed Reg Blow, as the Aboriginal Heritage Sites Consultant to research and report on significant sites in the municipality and suggest recommendations to the Council on

73 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Native Title 2 What is Native Title? The High Court s 1992 MABO Judgment determined that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people had common law rights and interests in land and waters, according to their traditional law and customs. The Court said it had been wrongly assumed that such people had no prior right of ownership of Australia and that this legal fiction had continued for more than 200 years. Native Title is a common law right that some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people may still have, according to their traditional law and customs - it is not a grant made by governments to Indigenous people. Native Title includes, but is not restricted to, rights in regards to land use and access. For example, Native Title may also involve responsibilities and mutual obligations between the land and the people connected to it. The existence of Native Title has fundamental implications for dealings with public land and waters which were previously assumed to have been owned by the Crown or Crown instrumentalities. (Working With Native Title - National Native Title Tribunal/WAMA/ALGA/Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation) What is a Native Title Representative Body? A Native Title Representative Body (NTRB) is an organisation, recognised by the Federal Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and other stakeholders in land matters, established to represent the rights and interests of Native Title holders within a region. Mirimbiak Nations Aboriginal Corporation is the NTRB for the State of Victoria. NTRBs are important to the Native Title Act because they are the advocates and representatives of Native Title holders at the local, regional and state levels. Under the Native Title Act, a NTRB may: On behalf of Aboriginal people, facilitate the researching, preparation or making of applications for the recognition of Native Title or for compensation for acts affecting Native Title; Represent Aboriginal people in negotiations and proceedings relating to acts affecting Native Title; Assist in the resolution of disagreements among Aboriginal people about the making of Native Title applications; Undertake any other activities and functions relating to the recognition, protection and development of the law in relation to Native Title. 73

74 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING These give rise to 11 core functions described in a June 1996 Ernst and Young Report to ATSIC. These core activities are: Claims The primary focus of most NTRBs is in assisting Native Title holders to put together their applications for recognition of Native Title. Parliament House, Canberra This is often a long and involved research process that aims to identify the Native Title holding group and the area over which Native Title is to be asserted. Once the identity of a group and the broad area of its traditional lands is established, lawyers must research land tenures to see what parcels of land remain where Native Title has not been extinguished. Eventually, an application for recognition of Native Title is completed and lodged with the National Native Title Tribunal. Compensation In some cases, a permissible act occurs on land where Native Title exists. These acts may include mining or other development projects. The Native Title Act allows in such instances for the Native Title holders in NTRBs assist Native Title holders in claiming compensation from governments or developers and may also assist in any ensuing negotiations. Test Cases Because the recognition of Native Title is still a relatively new idea on the Australian political and legal landscape it is expected that over time further clarification will occur. This is because in its historic MABO decision the High Court did not decide on all conceivable matters of Native Title. The recent Wik judgement in which it was found that Native Title may still co-exist over land leased for pastoral purposes was one such clarification. This development of the law occurs through test cases which are brought to the Federal Court (and usually also the High Court) for a decision. NTRBs play an important role in doing this. 74 Non-claimant Applications A non-claimant application is when people or organisations with a right, power or privilege in regards to a particular area of land or water where Native Title may exist (but where there are no known Native Title holders or applicants) seek a determination on Native Title from the National Native Title Tribunal. In such cases the relevant NTRB is contacted and has an opportunity to respond. This usually involves identifying the relevant Native Title holders, if any, and ensuring their rights are protected.

75 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Future Act Notifications Governments may compulsorily acquire land for a number of purposes, including the granting of a mining lease or allowing mineral exploration. NTRBs are notified of this intention and in turn notify the relevant Native Title holders so that their rights may be respected and due compensation is gained. 2 Regional Agreements Agreements are a way of resolving potential problems before they become sources of conflict and that is everybody s best interest. Agreements can vary according to the needs and interests of Native Title holders and the other parties involved. Other parties may include local councils, state governments, developers and other land users. NTRBs are very much involved in helping Native Title holders reach agreements over their lands. Native Title Education An on-going role of NTRBs is to help people understand what is Native Title, how the law works and how it affects Indigenous and wider communities. Heritage Protection While heritage protection in Victoria is generally covered by legislation other than the Native Title Act, NTRBs have the ability to take legal recourse to protect cultural heritage. Prescribed Bodies Corporate NTRBs may help Native Title holders set up their own organisations to manage Native Title matters. Office Management Naturally, an on-going function of NTRBs is to manage its own administrative matters in an efficient and effective way so that it delivers the highest possible service to its constituency. Policy and Liaison Governments make decisions about how we all live and behave. A role of an NTRB is to help ensure the rights and interests of Native Title holders are duly considered when government make decisions or draw up new policy and laws. This comes about through continual liaison with governments and other bodies. (Yarmbler - Mirimbiak Nations Aboriginal Corporation Magazine - February, 1998) Australian Reconciliation Convention Native Title Seminar Proceedings Native Title was a major issue for discussion at the 1997 Australian Reconciliation Convention in Melbourne. 75

76 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING The very clear conclusion that came from this seminar group was that traditional Native Title interests to land and water are the foundations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander custom and culture, and central to selfdetermination and reconciliation. Without co-existence there can be no reconciliation. The group went on to record that further restriction on the traditional relationship of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to ancestral land and waters is destructive of their culture. They called for a public education campaign to dispel some of the myths about the MABO and Wik decisions, and opposed any legislative attempt to overturn or water down those High Court decisions. There was also very broad support for the principle of racial non-discrimination with respect to any action which affects Native Title. Following, are extracts from key speakers at the Convention seminar on Native Title. Chairperson - The Hon Fred Chaney, Member, National Native Title Tribunal In the historic 1992 MABO decision, the High Court of Australia recognised Indigenous people s common law rights to Native Title and overturned the doctrine of terra nullius which underwrote the dispossession of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples without treaty or compensation. As a result of this decision, the Native Title Act of 1993 was enacted after a year of intense public debate and direct negotiation between peak bodies, Indigenous representatives and the government. Intense debate continues today about aspects of the workability of the Native Title Act, co-existence of Native Title on pastoral leases, the validation of leases and land titles issued outside the terms of the Act, and definition of the concept of Native rights. The overturning of the concept of terra nullius and recognition of the Native rights of Indigenous Australians not only involves a recognition of Indigenous cultural and historical attachments to land, but also provides an opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to participate in and benefit from economic development. 76

77 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING 2 Ms Monica Morgan, Native Title Coordinator, Yorta Yorta Murray Goulburn River Clans Claim Native Title itself is not the answer to all things. People try and box us in and say that Native Title is going to be able to give us a relationship with our land. We want more, we want a lot more than just a relationship with our land, we want a say over our land, we want to be a part of our land, we want to know that the policies and the guidelines and those things come from us as well. Also, it has given a strength to our people because at times we were just surviving, just the mere survival of trying to get our people housing, of trying to keep our young people out of the jails, as we re trying to keep our young people from feeling hopelessness about what is around them. As we are trying to do that, we are starting to realise that Native Title is not the end-all, that we need to look further, and we will look further and this has to be acknowledged that we are looking for a place that gives us our own self-government, that gives us our own rights to practice our own laws and customs, that gives us the right to be able to continue and continue into the next century. Sea of hands, Parliament House, Canberra Mr Peter Yu, Executive Director, Kimberley Land Council To answer that we must meet the greater challenge facing all Australians - that is, how to overcome the infection of terra nullius, which still festers within the psyche of the Australian nation. Reconciliation and co-existence can be the means by which that wound is finally healed, but not without commitment and leadership from the most senior of our political and community representatives. But I tell you what - surprising as it may seem, I do believe that there is a reservoir of goodwill, humanity and plain decency in the hearts and minds of the vast majority of non-indigenous Australia - and it is this optimism coupled with a strong sense of pragmatism that indigenous Australians have to offer. We offer hope and we offer practical ways for us all to live together - we find ourselves offering continued and truthful assurances that any recognition of indigenous rights will not lead to any reduction or diminishing of the rights of other Australians. Mr John Mackenzie, Chair, Aboriginal Affairs Task Force, National Farmers Federation I think it is fair to say that most modern pastoralists are not intent on removing any established Aboriginal rights, and have certainly never proposed that traditional rights that are currently being exercised should be restricted. Pastoralists have often been more diligent in preserving items of Aboriginal heritage than local Aboriginal communities. 77

78 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING It is now time for both sides to reassess the situation. Aboriginal people are now very large landholders in Australia under the pre-existing statutory land titles system. In many instances the titles that they hold are more secure and exclusive than any other title available to non-aboriginal Australians. They have been given a very large land fund by the taxpayers, to buy more land that can be converted to land under their own exclusive possession, either as ordinary freehold or in special Aboriginal title. Aboriginal people might also reflect that long-term, white Australian farm families have aspirations similar to their own. they would wish that a recognition of generations of working the land might be acknowledged in their own exclusive right of occupancy. Indeed, the common law that recognised Native Title also recognises that continuous occupancy of the land by anyone for several decades will lead to a common law right of ownership. Mr Campbell Anderson, Managing Director, North Limited, and Chairman, Minerals Council of Australia, Land Access Committee There is emerging a mining industry recognition and acceptance of traditional rights and interests, an understanding of the role of traditional law and customs in caring for country and the importance of access to country for the conservation of indigenous culture. I suggest that no other economic sector, with the possible exception of the pastoral industry, has come this far at this stage. yet this recognition is central to reconciliation. 78 Equally, Indigenous people, particularly those living in proximity to mineral developments, are recognising that mineral development is a key component of a dynamic Australian economy providing investment, innovation and job opportunities. The minerals industry does offer job opportunities and consequent economic independence for Indigenous Australians. These opportunities should not prevent Indigenous communities from maintaining, at the same time, direct associations with their country. Effective and enduring relationships developed under this framework cannot be mandated or legislated. What is required are agreements between Indigenous communities and companies that balance the conservation of traditional law and customs with economic development, which provide opportunities and benefits for Indigenous and non-indigenous interests. MAV and Native Title The MAV has sought to play educational, informative and facilitative roles with regard to Native Title and Local Government. Through workshops, in meetings and campaigns, and as a non-voting, ex-officio member on Mirimbiak Nations Aboriginal Corporation, the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer has facilitated the active participation of Local Government in Native Title Ms Daphne Yarram, Chairperson, Mirimbak Nations Aboriginal Corporation

79 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING issues. In Victoria, Mirimbiak Nations Aboriginal Corporation is the peak Native Title Representative Body which accepts Native Title claims from the local Aboriginal clans in Victoria and also provides advice and legal interpretation for communities and governments. Through regular meetings with Mirimbiak and local Councils, in workshops and more recently with the Defenders of Native Title (DON T) Group campaigns, the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer has given the relationship between Local Government and Native Title issues more prominence. A seminar and workshop for Councils in the Western District held on 12 March, 1998 was one particular avenue of highlighting and identifying Native Title issues for Local Government. The session was jointly run by the MAV, ALGA, Mirimbiak Nations Aboriginal Corporation, the Department of Justice and the Victorian office of the National Native Title Tribunal. 2 At a national level, the MAV, through its involvement in the ALGA, has also been taking a proactive role. In 1997, the ALGA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Reference Group endorsed the employment of a Native Title Officer. Ed Wensing took up the post in July 1997 and as Native Title Programs Manager he has developed a range of strategies to effect Local Government s responses to Native Title within the reconciliation framework. He has also assisted Councils in offering an informed response to Native Title claimants, respondents and the wider community. A recent joint initiative publication between ALGA, WAMA (Western Australia Municipal Association), the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation and the National Native Title Tribunal, Working with Native TitleT itle, is a practical, plain English guide to assist Local Government and their communities address the issues surrounding Native Title. MAV Local Government Workshop on Native Title In October 1997, the MAV co-convened a seminar and workshop to clarify Council issues (refer table; 83) in relation to Native Title. The seminar also involved the ALGA, National Native Title Tribunal, NSW Native Title Tribunal, Department of Premier and Cabinet and Mirimbiak Nations Aboriginal Corporation. MAV Statewide Native Title Seminar During his presentation, ALGA Native Title Programs Officer, Ed Wensing made the following observations: In the May, 1997 edition of Western Councillor, the Newsletter of the Western Australian Municipal Association, Wayne Scheggia, the Executive Manager of Policy and Advisory Services at the Western Australian Municipal Association (WAMA) wrote as follows: Despite all the talk around our nation about Native Title, there has been very little attention give to the role Local Government can play and how that role should be carried out. As custodians of substantial holdings of public land, Local Governments should be considered major stakeholders in any debate associated with the rights to land. 79

80 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Equally, Local Governments are perhaps the only bodies that can legitimately represent the interests of the local community in the Native Title process, and this responsibility demands that Local Governments be aware of the nuances of the legislation so that they can effectively advocate for their residents. The most important role that other Local Governments can arguably take in relation to Native Title is that of a facilitator between claimants and local interests, to ensure that Native Title is discussed in an atmosphere of reconciliation and co-operation. These issues are explained fully in the publication, Working with Native TitleT itle. Native Title impacts on the full range of Local Government s functions, for example: as an information provider, as a strategic and corporate planner for an area as a land manager as an agency responsible for the delivery of a wide range of services as an infrastructure provider and maintainer; on its land use planning and development responsibilities Most Councils will have to deal with Native Title at some stage, whether it be by: providing information to the local community responding to Native Title claims using the Future Acts process in the Native Title Act 1993, or using the non-claimant process in the Native Title Act, 1993 Irrespective of the post-wik regime, these issues will not go away, there will still be: a Native Title Act claims to process procedures to follow, and agreements to negotiate The 1996 National General Assembly of Local Government adopted a statement on community tolerance which calls on Councils to: support the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation s vision for a united Australia, and to address the special needs of disadvantaged groups Calls on Local Government to negotiate agreements with Indigenous communities 80 Native Title, Reconciliation and Agreements Reconciliation documents or agreements share a number of common features, for example they acknowledge: Aboriginal dispossession and prior ownership of land by Aboriginal people the right of Aboriginal people to live according to their own values and customs a commitment to respecting and conserving significant Aboriginal sites and special places, and encourage the wider community to take an active role in reconciliation, showing mutual respect for each other.

81 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Local and Regional agreements are examples of reconciliation in action producing real results for the whole Australian community. In contributing to the decision-making of a community or region, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are taking responsibility for their own future and helping to produce results for all Australians. In recent years, there has been greater interest in the possibility of negotiating on a regional basis to resolve issues related to Indigenous land ownership and use, to improve service delivery and to achieve a measure of self-government for indigenous peoples. Throughout most of Australia, significant importance is attached to local geography, natural resources, industries and population size. Indigenous culture and life are essentially related to particular geographical areas. Regional agreements allow for the diversity of experiences and culture among local indigenous peoples and other groups in the community to be taken into account when decisions are being made about the future of a region. Industry and governments accept that there are considerable economic costs to ignoring the contribution of indigenous interests in regional projects. Local or Regional Agreements offer all parties the advantage of local ownership and control; avoiding the costly and time-consuming delays of determining the specific Native Title claims via the courts. They also offer the opportunity for all parties to come together to fashion a shared management plan for land its resources that can offer economic, environmental and social benefits for all concerned. *(Overview - Proceedings of the Australian Reconciliation Convention: Book 1) Good Practice Initiatives - BROOME AND REDLAND SHIRE COUNCILS These agreements generally begin with reciprocal statements of recognition and customs. Shire of Broome and the Rubibi Working Group: the Shire of Broome have signed an interim agreement that, among other things: advanced where decisions are to be made about their traditional country. commits the parties to work together to ensure this is done in a way that advances the interests of the whole community and promotes harmonious community interests. which will identify: respect for each other s rights and interests, notably that the Indigenous people are the traditional owners of the country in accordance with their traditional laws and In Broome, the Rubibi Group, representing the Native Title Claimants in the area, and commits the parties to together seek ways in which Aboriginal interests can be The interim agreement also commits the parties to developing a planning strategy areas of land of special cultural significance to Aboriginal people; 2 81

82 2 PARTNERSHIPS 82 - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING areas of land to be the subject of joint management arrangements; and areas of land subject to continuing development pressures in respect of which Aboriginal interests require specific recognition and protection. The interim agreement also commits the parties to developing joint management arrangements for coastal and other reserves. REDLAND SHIRE COUNCIL AND THE QUANDAMOOKA LAND COUNCIL In August, 1997 the Redland Shire Council and the Quandamooka Land Council signed a Native Title process agreement. The basis of the agreement is that both parties: covered by the Native Title claim by the Quandamooka people, and is preserved for present and future generations. Under the Agreement, the Redland Shire Council and the Quandamooka Land Council have put in place a process to reach agreement on Native Title matters, including the conduct of a planning and management study for the island. The for the island; a management framework agreement for the island; and any other agreed matters. The agreement does not seek to establish an agreed determination of the Quandamooka peoples Native Title rights and interests. What is particularly unique about this agreement is that: issues to achieve a balanced outcome that is in the community s best interests; both parties are committed to accepting ownership of the outcomes of the planning and management study; and the agreement on Native Title has been developed, notwithstanding any Title rights and interests. What is also unique about this agreement is that it challenges the planning with the present, to look forward to ensure that planning practices recognise Indigenous people and recognise traditional laws and customs. The processes adopted in Broome and Redland are important building blocks for the local planning process. have accepted the other s rights, interests and custodial obligations over the area want to ensure the special environment on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) findings, recommendations and other information produced by the study will be used to develop a Native Title agreement incorporating a vision and strategic land use plan the study combines Native Title with other land use planning and management determination, by agreement or otherwise, of the Quandamooka people s Native profession to make some fundamental changes about the way it views vacant crown land, to reconcile its past practices of assuming vacant crown land to be terra nullius (which has been at the forefront of the dispossession of land by Aboriginal people) reaching agreements on interests in and responsibilities for land that is under council control, as well as for the recognition and protection of Aboriginal interests through

83 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING To ensure certainty through negotiated agreements of this kind, councils need to recognise it is essential that: and recognition of each other s existing rights and interests and that agreements to create an atmosphere of constructive goodwill, mutual respect and generosity of spirit, be open-minded to communication at all times, develop a statement of respect advance the interests of the whole community (Indigenous and non-indigenous). 2 Municipal Association of Victoria Victorian Councils key issues re Native Title in relation to Crown Land and Local Government - identified by MAV questionnaire A standard overlay that respects Native Title and Heritage issues to be included in the new Planning Schemes prepared under the Municipal Strategic Statements. 2. Definition of the areas involved 3. Establishment of a timeframe for the process 4. Role of the Tribunal and ability to present evidence 5. Who may appear before the Tribunal and what is the process 6. Process for pursuing development of land included in a claim 7. What is Native Title 8. How many claims in Victoria - the processes for all parties 9. Joint Regional Agreements 10. Approval Processes 11. Public Works on Crown Land - Natural Gas Pipeline to the Wimmera Region 12. What is Native Title - Brief Background and Current Situation 13. Pending Claims effecting Delatite Shire 14. The sale of Crown Land under claim 15. Land use planning issues related to Crown Land 16. Referral requirements in relation to planning application 17. Time taken to resolve Native Title Claims 18. State Government policy on land management land use and compensation 19. Clarification of exclusive use and possession statement in claims, given Yorta Yorta Policy 20. Detailed information and impacts 21. Analysis of Federal Government and Aboriginal community positions and how to take this into account with any development proposals or leases on Crown Land. 22. Who should be consulted? Where to get advice? A general guide document, is there one available that is clear and provides advice on the impacts, how to handle issues, who to consult, etc. 23. Are Native Title issues likely to arise on the fringe of the metropolitan area? (private/public land). If so, what are the implications? 24. Fear of access to public lands 25. What is the true agenda of those putting in the claims? - Is it really only monetary? 26. Effect on planning Permit conditions, the surveys that are being required to be undertaken 27. Implications of Native Title to: new planning schemes; planning scheme amendments; planning permit applications. 83

84 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Stolen Generation Background The 1997 General Assembly attended by 750 Local Government representatives unanimously endorsed the following statement: Local government expresses its deep and sincere regret at the hurt and distress caused by policies which forcibly removed Aboriginal children from their families and homes. It recognised that a great injustice was inflicted on Aboriginal peoples in the name of assimilation and integration and reaffirms its support for reconciliation between all Australians. The removal of Indigenous children from their families has had far reaching consequences, depriving many of contact with their people, country, language and culture. Local Government commits to making all necessary records and assistance available to aid the victims of these policies in their grief and rebuilding of their family histories and place in today s Australia. The National Inquiry into the Separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families was established in 1995 by the former Attorney General, the Hon. Michael Lavarch MP and conducted by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission. The Inquiry was set up in response to increasing concern among key Indigenous agencies and communities that the general public s ignorance of the history of forcible removal was hindering the recognition of the needs of its victims and their families and the provision of services. As the Governor-General stated in August 1996: That is not to say that individual Australians who had no part in what was done in the past should feel or acknowledge personal guilt. It is simply to assert our identity as a nation and the basic fact that national shame, as well as national pride, can and should exist in relation to past acts and omissions, at least when done in the name of the community or with the authority of government. Local Government can play an active role in the response to the report and particularly in the reparation process through activities as: 84 ensuring that all programs recording local history include the recording of testimonies of people affected by forcible removal from within their area. facilitating access to all necessary Council records and archives which will assist in the piecing together of Indigenous peoples histories. assisting with reunions and gatherings particularly where there were institutions in their local area. the promotion of the local Indigenous language, culture and history for the benefit of the separated children, their descendants and the general community. working co-operatively in the planning, development and establishment of Indigenous organisations working to aid the victims in their grief and rebuilding of their family histories and place in today s Australia.

85 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING 2 P R E S S R E L E A S E A NATIONAL SORRY DAY Acknowledgment, Unity, Commitment AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION A `Sorry Day will be held on 26th May, 1998, exactly a year after the tabling in Federal Parliament of the report of the National Inquiry into the removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families. The report, Bringing Them Home, revealed the extent of forced removal, which went on for 150 years into the early 1970s, its consequences in terms of broken families, shattered physical and mental health, loss of language, culture and connection to traditional land, loss of parenting skills, and the enormous distress of many of its victims today. photo;courtesy The Age. This largely unknown history has stirred intense concern. Bringing them Home has sold more copies than any comparable report. The Government, in its response, has acknowledged the harm caused by the policy and has made proposals to address some of the recommendations. The report recommended that a Sorry Day be held - a day when all Australians can express their sorrow for the whole tragic episode, and celebrate the beginning of a new understanding. Many of the stolen generations told the Inquiry that they would value this. Unlike the widespread Aboriginal use of the term sorry business to denote death, they see a Sorry Day as a means of restoring hope to people in despair. The National Stolen Generation Working Group has therefore invited non-indigenous people to join them in a national Sorry Day planning committee. They welcome the wider Australian community to remember and commemorate those affected by removal, so that the nation can continue the process of healing together. Indigenous people will participate in a Day dedicated to the memory of loved ones who never cam home, or who are still finding their way home. Many non-indigenous Australians, having learnt the history of forced removal, wish to apologize for the practice, and State 85

86 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Parliaments, churches and organisations have done so in recent months. This has been greatly appreciated; because apology means understanding, a willingness to enter into the suffering, a commitment to help overcome its debilitating effects. Activities Sorry Day offers every community the chance to shape a ceremony which, by the frankness of its acknowledgment of past wrongs towards the stolen generations, and by the sincerity of its commitment to overcome racism, unites the community. Such a ceremony cannot be prescribed. It must come from the hearts of local people, Indigenous and non-indigenous. One s focus could be the Sorry Books now being distributed, which give everyone the chance to say sorry in their own words. Civic or political leaders could hand these books to elders of the indigenous communities. Representatives of government, police forces, churches and other agencies could be given the chance to speak about their agency s role in the removal policies, and express regret in whatever terms they choose. The Indigenous community would have the chance to respond. It is hoped the ceremonies will be accompanied by displays, cultural presentations, theatrical and other events developed together by the local Indigenous and non-indigenous communities, which bring the history to life, expressing the pain but also the resilience of those who were removed and which look forward to a new future. Outcomes Sorry Day will be an important step on the road which all Australians are walking together. It can help restore the dignity stripped from those affected by removal; and it offers those who carried out the policy - and their successors - a chance to move beyond denial and guilt. It could shape a far more creative partnership between Indigenous and non-indigenous Australians, with immense benefit to both. 86

87 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) STATEMENTS OF RECOGNITION, APOLOGY & COMMITMENT The MAV, the peak body of Victoria s Councils, recognises that Indigenous Australians were the first people of our land and for two centuries have strived to maintain their unique identity, values and heritage. The MAV regretfully acknowledges the dispossession of land and the shattering impacts on Indigenous culture, customs, language, and family and clan life and sincerely apologises to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for their grief and suffering resulting from past laws, policies and actions. The MAV is committed to an ongoing reconciliation process built on acknowledgment of past injustices together with an apology and a determination to help rectify the hurt of Indigenous people. The MAV will uphold the 1992 Intergovernmental (Commonwealth, State and Local Government) National Commitment to Improved Outcomes in the Delivery of Programs and Services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples which recognised the expressed wish of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders for a commitment to change and an acknowledgment of their rightful place in the right to contribute to Australian society and to share in Australia s land, wealth and resources. The MAV endorses the resolutions of the ALGA General Assembly of 1996, 1997 on Native Title, Apology to the Stolen Generations, Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) Partnerships, equity, access and acknowledgment in tourism, libraries and other services. The MAV will promote a broad program of reconciliation and initiatives aimed at social, cultural and economic well being of Indigenous Victorians through the newly established Local Government-Indigenous Network including such activities as coordination of a cross cultural awareness program for Councils, facilitation of Council-Indigenous Agreements, enhanced access to Council services and Indigenous representation and participation in Local Government. June, STATEMENT OF APOLOGY The City of Moonee Valley, on behalf of its citizens, recognises past injustices inflicted on Australia s Aboriginal community by this and previous generations of non-indigenous Australians, and expresses its profound regret that these injustices occurred. In particular this City is sorry about the forced removal of Aboriginal children from their families, confiscation of their traditional lands, the implementation of policies designed to extinguish Aboriginal practices, language and culture and for the pain these actions have caused and continued to cause the Aboriginal community. STATEMENT OF APOLOGY That the Council endorses the following statement: Frankston City Council expresses its deep and sincere regret at the hurt and distress caused by the State and Federal Government policies which forcibly removed Aboriginal children from their families and homes. It recognises that a great injustice was inflicted on Aboriginal peoples in the name of assimilation and integration and reaffirms its support for the reconciliation between all Australians. The removal of Indigenous children from their families has had far reaching consequences, depriving many of contact with their people, country, language and culture. Frankston City Council commits to making all necessary records and assistance available to aid the victims of these policies in their grief and rebuilding of their family histories and place in today s Australia. 87

88 2 PARTNERSHIPS - KNOWLEDGE, RECOGNITION AND UNDERSTANDING STATEMENT OF APOLOGY The Yarra Ranges Shire Council recognises the past injustices and treatment of Aboriginal Peoples. If we are to proceed in an openhearted and responsible way to address the issues which will come before us in the future we first need to acknowledge the past. Council recognises the need to confront the policies and practices which caused the forced removal and separation of Aboriginal children from their parents and families, the effects of which continue today. Accordingly, we wish to express our deep sorrow and sincerely apologise for the pain, the grief and the suffering experienced by Aboriginal Peoples as a result of past laws, government policy and actions. STATEMENT OF APOLOGY The Shire of Nillumbik on behalf of its residents, unreservedly and sincerely, for the pain, the grief and the suffering experienced by Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as a result of past laws, government policies, actions and attitudes. The Council expresses deep sorrow that these actions and attitudes have occurred and has determined that such occurrences should not be repeated. STATEMENT OF APOLOGY Council expresses its deep regret at the forcible removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families as reported by the National Inquiry into the Separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children from their families, and expresses an apology to the local Indigenous community for the suffering this has caused, the impact of which continues to be felt in families. Cr. Roz Blades - Mayor, 25 May, 1998 STATEMENT OF APOLOGY Lord Mayor, Cr Ivan Deveson, on behalf of the City of Melbourne, paid respects to Indigenous communities. For the first time, the City is saying sorry to the stolen children. But this is not about admitting guilt or apportioning blame. As individuals, we were clearly not involved in the stolen generation policies. This, however, does not stop us from expressing sorrow for the injustices of the past. National Sorry Day is a day of mourning, in sympathy and recognition of the great hardships and losses suffered by our Indigenous peoples. The policies that gave rise to the stolen generations - however well intentioned they may have been by the standards of the day - changed the trajectory of many children s lives forever, and almost every Aboriginal family has been affected by what happened in one way or another. The children of the stolen generations were not only separated from their parents and families, they were also separated from their culture, language and historical beliefs. Today is a milestone on the road to reconciliation and gives us a chance to build a society and city of understanding, of empathy, justice and compassion. Today will also help to determine the future fabric of our city into the next century, and if we get it right, strengthen the social bonds so that we can complete the journey of reconciliation together. STATEMENT OF APOLOGY The Knox City Council recognises terrible injustices endured by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the past 200 years, including the loss of traditional lands, destruction of culture, the racist policy of forced assimilation and the resulting generation of stolen children. 88 Council expresses it deep regret for these injustices and offers a sincere and heartfelt apology to Australia s Indigenous people on behalf of the Knox community. Further, the Council calls on the Prime Minister John Howard to join the Governor-General, Sir William Deane, the Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett, the leaders of all mainstream churches, the growing number of community groups, and the quarter of a million Australians who have already signed the various sorry books... and apologise on behalf of the Commonwealth Government for the hurt and pain suffered by Aboriginal people since white settlement in Australia.

89 Introduction PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Aboriginal Cross Cultural Awareness Training 3 Prior to the appointment of the MAV s Aboriginal Policy Officer, many Councils were reluctant to take the initiative and communicate with local Aboriginal people about their interests, needs, or perspectives on local priorities and issues. This simple, but seemingly difficult step of making contact has been facilitated by the Aboriginal Policy Officer operating as a conduit between Council and the Indigenous community. However, breaking down the barriers requires follow through based on cultural understanding. An essential prerequisite tool for better understanding by non-aboriginal people of Aboriginal history, culture and heritage is cross cultural awareness training. By providing information about Aboriginal culture, such training helps non-aboriginal people to gain awareness of an Aboriginal perspective. This has been recognised by Council and Government agencies with some 2000 people participating in 22 sessions conducted by the MAV project from 1993 to 1997 in metropolitan and regional Victoria. Cross Cultural Awareness Checklist Cross Cultural Awareness Programs have many benefits. For example: they explore the disadvantages resulting from dispossession of Aboriginal land help in countering stereotyping change participants outlooks on the significance of cultural diversity promote understanding of the richness of Aboriginal cultural heritage and highlight today s issues of importance, such as land rights, the wider community s response to the Deaths In Custody Royal Commission, the impacts of the Government s stolen generation policy, Native Title, civil rights, health needs and economic independence. Presenters Key presenters in the courses to date have been: Jim Berg, Chairperson of the Koorie Heritage Trust, which was established in 1985 to acquire, preserve and display objects of Victorian Aboriginal heritage. Julie Peers, a Koorie freelance community worker who facilitates a session on issues of cultural diversity; protocols; program and service delivery and profiles relating to Indigenous families and Indigenous communities. Daphne Milward, Koorie consultant and Aboriginal elder, Mandala Consulting Services. 89

90 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Our interactive program is designed to give participants the opportunity to learn more about Indigenous culture and history prior to settlement and up to the present. We include the principles of Binang Goonj Consultant Group. Binang Goonj is a phrase from the Bidjara language in south western Queensland, meaning they hear but they don t listen. We acknowledge the Binang Goonj Consultant Group for approval of the use of some of their material. These principles are as follows: Most non-aboriginal people have limited knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal communities, their histories, lifestyles, values, attitudes or cultural traditions. Most non-aboriginal people are unaware of the pressures on Aboriginal people as a minority group in Australian society. Most non-aboriginal people have little contact with Aboriginal people, consequently they frequently react to Aboriginal people on the basis of stereotypes rather than real knowledge. One way to break down the barriers of ignorance, barriers created by history and colonisation is to look at the past and attempt to build bridges through a partnership program for working together for the future. After completing the program participants should have a basic knowledge and understanding of Indigenous culture and history and an awareness of: Indigenous peoples perspectives in relation to MABO, WIK, Stolen Generation and Reconciliation. Cultural differences on core values and, An awareness and understanding of contempory Indigenous society. Check List for a successful cross cultural training day: Notify the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer, or an elder in the community, that your Council is interested in participating in a Cross Cultural Awareness Program. (The MAV Program is specifically targeted to Local Government) Ensure you have no more than 30 participants and no less than 15 for the one day session Inform the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer or local elder of the work area of the participants attending the session. ie. community planning, parks and gardens, etc Remember, these sessions will not teach you everything you need to know about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues in one day It is vital therefore, that after you participate in a session that you follow up with the local Indigenous community to learn more and be involved in the everyday issues. 90

91 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Essential elements of the Local Government Cross Cultural program: Victorian Aboriginal History - Timelines, Mission Days, Assimilation, Government Policies, Stolen Generation, Integration, Indigenous organisations programs and services and frameworks. Indigenous people in Local Government - Good Practice Examples Local regions - specific issues. Develop strategies to address local issues Aboriginal culture and heritage. Communication and protocols Community networking Indigenous role models and achievements 3 Cross Cultural Awareness Training is also undertaken in other states as part of Local Government s strategy to build better relationships with Indigenous people. 91

92 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Cross Cultural Awareness Training Evaluation - A SELECTION OF QUOTES From Participants at the MAV sessions in 1994 and 1995 in Shepparton and at Yarra Ranges. Expectations To learn about Aboriginal culture and heritage in Victoria and learn not to put my foot in it when communicating with Koories in the future. Shire of Yarra Ranges Cross Cultural Awareness Training Session I wanted to learn more about the problems faced by Koories and to know what strategies I can use as a worker in Council to deal with Aboriginal clients. I wanted to learn about how I can assist our Council and wider community to address the issues of the Koorie community and how to develop culturally appropriate services. To gain a greater awareness of the Koorie way of life and to learn as much as possible to help break down the barriers which seem to exist between the Koories and Councils. I wanted to know more about strategies for dealing with conflict between community expectations and ability of services to provide this. I needed to know more about the ways of communicating and the common ground use in being able to work together better. I wanted to understand the view of the world from the Koorie point of view. I wanted to be able to take back as much information to other Councillors and officers in my Council that would make them more aware of the values of the Koorie community and more sensitive to the needs of Koorie people. Results I learnt more about how to approach Koorie individuals and groups and it cleared up alot of misinformation we hear and read about all the time. Well presented and informal! 92 I learnt so much about how to speak with Koories and about their stories, history session was great. I was very comfortable with the content even though I felt sad at times. Inspiration plus! Being a member of Local Government, I m guilty of the `write a letter to the chairman approach. I can really identify with the spiral approach and you ve saved me from blowing any chance to develop a relationship with members of our Koorie community. I m beginning to understand why I haven t met any Koories in my circles. Shire of Yarra Ranges Cross Cultural Awareness Training Session

93 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Very inspirational and it really stirred a feeling of wanting to do something relevant. Any sense of feeling uncomfortable was intended and helped to get the message across. 3 I want to further the reconciliation process by making sure that Local Government will press people harder to take a positive step in their local areas in addressing Koorie issues. It is such a great program, that I want more local Council officers currently involved in Koorie projects at my Council to participate in future programs run by the MAV. I am now armed with some great strategies to take back to my program area in Council. I think that the balance between general background information and positive, practical strategies was excellent. Personally, I felt that the historical and cultural issues are enormous and that learning, understanding and working together is a long term, lengthy, but important and worthwhile process. I feel that I need to travel more in the regional parts of Victoria, as I thought there were no Koories in the country, how stupid do I feel now. Thank you for opening my mind and I will definitely work with my Council to improve the Koorie access to services. The session was conducted clearly and succinctly with great speakers, the physical content and written information provided to us and definitely re-inforced the hardship which Koorie people and culture has faced. I am absolutely less critical and biased than I was when I walked in. The day was a good basis on which to gain further knowledge and lots of ideas to improve our relationships at work and with the general community. Learning about the little things is very invaluable ie. eye contact and having a greater awareness of the culture will enable new ideas to develop and a greater awareness of opportunity. The first hand knowledge relayed to the group was very informative and provided an informal link of cultures. First MAV session It surpassed all my expectations. The importance of having local Koories delivering this program made the day more valuable, rather than hearing stories second hand. I enjoyed learning about the local structure and thought it would be very useful in future planning strategies and the communication examples were excellent. I understand that to learn everything there is to know about Koorie culture in one day is impossible but to be given the information from all the presenters today was fantastic. I hope to learn much more in the future! Artefacts, Corranderk Koorie Co-operative 93

94 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Consultation and Committees Introduction Effective Council rapport and consultation with the local Indigenous community are essential and to facilitate the building of better relationships between Local Councils and their Indigenous communities, in joint planning of strategies, programs, initiatives, projects and activities. Based on experience to date, Councils are advised to progress through the following eight steps which involve the establishment and regular monitoring of a formal consultation mechanism. Note: Where Councils have not followed these steps, consultation has often been tokenistic, some Indigenous organisations have been left out of the process and Councils have drafted unacceptable policies, all of which are counter productive to Councils intent of building better relationships. Council Consultation Checklist Step One - Involvement from the Beginning Involve Indigenous individuals, organisations and communities right from the beginning as this will help empower Indigenous people enabling them to take on the responsibility for self-determination when planning for future strategies and initiatives. Step Two - Inclusiveness Identify the key Indigenous contacts within your community and invite them all to participate in an informal meeting with Council representatives to get to know each other. Note: Do not assume that one Indigenous organisation represents the community. Make sure you talk to all Indigenous organisations and relevant individuals in your Council area. Step Three - Seek Skilled Aboriginal Facilitation (a) Invite the Local Council Aboriginal Policy Officer to facilitate the meeting with all Indigenous community members, relevant local Council staff and service providers. 94 (b) Where a local Council Aboriginal Policy Officer has not been appointed contact the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer who will provide advice on the facilitation of the meetings.

95 Step Four - Formalise Consultation Mechanism PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS 3 As there will be a range of issues and concerns the meeting should discuss the establishment of the local Council Aboriginal Advisory/Consultative Committee so that all matters can be addressed in a considered and timely way. (refer next section on Advisory Committees and Working Parties) Step Five - Agree on Membership and Terms of Reference The Terms of Reference for the Aboriginal Advisory Committee should include the following: Equal representation of Indigenous and non-indigenous people Aims and objectives Number of task groups and sub-committees Life time of the Committee Schedule of meetings no less than six weeks apart Rotating chairperson - Indigenous and non- Indigenous Rotating venues between Indigenous organisations and the Local Council Joint responsibility for committee administration Resolving Conflict Step Six - Cross Cultural Awareness Training Once the establishment of the Local Council Aboriginal Advisory/Consultative Committee has been agreed, all non- Indigenous representatives must participate in Aboriginal Cross Cultural Awareness Training. (refer section on Cross Cultural Awareness Training) Step Seven - Members Commitment and Alternative Representatives If any representative is unable to meet the responsibility of attending Committee meetings or participating in the implementation of developed strategies, then consideration by the Committee should be given to an alternative person attending. Step Eight - Monitoring and Reporting Regular monitoring of the Committee s progress and recommendations is important to ensure outcomes are achieved and results celebrated. The monitoring of individual local Committees should be reported to Council, Indigenous organisations and the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer for preparation of a Statewide report and input to the National evaluation of the Local Government Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander program. The mechanism for this will be developed by the MAV Local Government Indigenous Network, established in April,

96 3 PARTNERSHIPS 96 - KEY ACTIONS Consultation - Good Practice Example East Gippsland Region - Bataluk Cultural Trail Management Committee Initial Process Elders in the East Gippsland community raised their concerns that Local Government wasn t delivering services to the Aboriginal community and about the lack of employment opportunities in the region. The local Councils prior to amalgamations (Tambo, Omeo, Rosedale, Bairnsdale, Orbost and Sale) expressed the need to improve tourism opportunities in their region, but had not taken into account Indigenous concerns. The MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer brought Councils and Indigenous communities together for a round table discussion to address the issues and possible joint action. Focus for Action The local Councils and the Aboriginal communities came to an agreement that improving economic development and employment opportunities was a high priority and the idea of establishing an Aboriginal Cultural Trail for the region emerged. The former eight Councils involved had already established a committee, the East Gippsland Municipalities Human Services Committee Inc, which formed a subcommittee to oversee the management for the future developments of the Aboriginal Cultural Trail. The sub-committee also involved the MAV, DEETYA, ATSIC, Aboriginal Affairs Victoria and local economic development and tourism agencies. The Committee has rotated its monthly meetings for the last three years in each of the five Indigenous communities.

97 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Funding The Committee received initial funding through the Integrated Local Area Planning Program (ILAP) to employ a facilitator to develop appropriate strategies for the concept of the Aboriginal Cultural Trail and was able subsequently to attract funds from a range of sources. Employment Creation In addition to the project Facilitator, an Aboriginal trainee was also employed along with an Aboriginal Liaison Officer based in East Gippsland Shire Council s Strategic Planning Department on a part-time basis for a six month duration. 20 Indigenous people were employed under a DEETYA New Work Opportunity program in East Gippsland for a six month duration in 1996, to manage and maintain the sites on the Bataluk Cultural Trail. An Indigenous film company has produced a promotional video and an Aboriginal artist was contracted to create a logo for the Bataluk Cultural Trail for the Lakes and Wilderness Tourism Brochure, a mural for the Bairnsdale Tourist Information Centre and the Barbecue area at a Howitt Park site. Activities associated with the Trail have also provided employment for Indigenous caterers. Outcome Responsibility for the Trail in 1998 will be handled by a new Incorporated Body represented by elected Indigenous people and local community business representatives. East Gippsland Shire Council has established an Aboriginal Advisory Committee with broad responsibilities and Wellington Shire Council is also establishing an Aboriginal Advisory Committee in

98 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Aboriginal Advisory/Consultative Committees and Working Parties Introduction The establishment of a Local Government Aboriginal Advisory Committee is essential for effective communication and developing partnerships between Councils and the local Indigenous community. With improving relations between councils and Indigenous communities, an increasing number of committees have been established in Victoria, both locally and regionally. Such committees will be essential mechanisms for the proposed development of formal partnership agreements as outlined in the ALGA Agreements Kit. (refer 141) Checklist: It is essential when establishing an Aboriginal Advisory Committee to: Set the ground rules first - This includes deciding the terms of reference, objectives, life of the committee, deadlines for projects, initiatives, etc. Be clear about the role of members, who they represent and why they have been invited to participate. Ensure members of the committee have the authority to make important decisions. Gain commitment from all parties towards effective and appropriate outcomes for the Indigenous community. Invite all factions/organisations in the municipality to have the opportunity to be represented on the committee. Objectives: Aboriginal Advisory Committees should aim to: assist in identifying needs and groups respond to the needs of the Indigenous community promote employment and training opportunities for Indigenous people assist with requests from local Indigenous organisations increase public awareness of the needs of Indigenous people who are residents in the municipality discuss and promote Indigenous issues assist in the planning and Co-ordination of NAIDOC Week activities advise Council on issues relating to Aboriginal culture and heritage preserve local Aboriginal sites Reg Blow, Chairperson, City of Darebin Reconciliation Working Party. increase awareness and respect for Aboriginal culture by other members of the community monitor Council s implementation of recommendations regarding Aboriginal issues advise on policy directions and impacts 98

99 Outcomes: PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS 3 An Aboriginal Advisory Committee can be a win-win for Local Councils, Indigenous communities, government departments and community agencies and representatives. A Committee: is a recognised forum for discussion of local issues relevant to Indigenous communities is an important source of information and support to Indigenous members and Council officers contributes to the skills and confidence of the Committee members when dealing with joint initiatives, projects and activities helps ensure the development of culturally appropriate services and access to existing services (not only council services) provides the opportunity for mediation rather than confrontation Good Practice - Local Council Aboriginal Consultative Committee The Shire of Yarra Ranges established its Aboriginal Advisory Committee in September, 1995 to address issues in relation to young Indigenous participation in activities, unemployment amongst Indigenous people, economic development and Indigenous issues by the Shire of Yarra Ranges. The Shire of Yarra Ranges Aboriginal Consultative Committee is represented by the Shire of Yarra Ranges Councillors and officers, Local and State government departments and agencies and the Healesville Indigenous community. As a result of the committees work, the Shire of Yarra Ranges have hosted four Aboriginal Cross Cultural Awareness Programs for 120 local Council staff, government departments and the wider community. Committee Terms of Reference To identify issues and establish relevant task groups to develop appropriate strategies. To provide a reporting function and mechanism for the Shire of Yarra Ranges and major stakeholders involved in improving the delivery of programs and tourism opportunities for the Indigenous community, increased understanding of local services to the local Indigenous community. Shire of Yarra Ranges Aboriginal Consultative Committee 99

100 3 PARTNERSHIPS KEY ACTIONS To guide the implementation of strategies in line with relevant Government, Council and organisational policies. To make recommendations to Council, Indigenous government and nongovernment organisations in relation to issues that may affect the Indigenous community of Yarra Ranges. To conduct regular evaluations and reviews of Consultative Committee outcomes. To ensure communication and exchange of information. Shire of Yarra Ranges Aboriginal Consultative Committee The project has provided a network for building relationships and working in partnership between the members of the Aboriginal community, interested non- Aboriginal community people and the Shire of Yarra Ranges Council. This has been a difficult time for both particularly with amalgamations, tendering processes, Council elections and the Native Title debate. However, some projects have been taken up and supported by Council which is very encouraging for ongoing relationships and future activities. Some areas need more work and we are hopeful that with a better understanding and awareness of Aboriginal issues that there will be more formal involvement with Council. The Aboriginal community should monitor Council to follow up and implement their commitment to the Aboriginal community in terms of promoting recognition and understanding of Aboriginal cultural heritage issues, program and service delivery and improve employment opportunities. The community should ensure that Council keep an open door policy by continuing with the Aboriginal Advisory Committee, invitations to participate at civic functions and other events. Further to ensure that Council support, promote and actively encourage Aboriginal electoral representation and support and facilitate economic development initiatives. Aboriginal communities need to recognise that Local Government is a resource for all people. People should make themself known to Council, offer advice and support the role of Council at the grass roots level. Joy Murphy, Aboriginal Policy Officer, Shire of Yarra Ranges. Establishment of local committees such as the one at Yarra Ranges, has encouraged similar committees by other Councils, including: 1. Cities of Whitehorse, Banyule, Manningham and the Shire of Nillumbik Working Party 2. City of Port Phillip and ATSIC Koorie Working Party 3. East Gippsland Bataluk Cultural Trail Management Committee 4. City of Yarra Aboriginal Advisory Committee 5. City of Melbourne Aboriginal Advisory Committee

101 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS 6. City of Manningham and Wurundjeri Land and Compensation Council Working Party 7. Wathaurong Consultative Committee - Councils of Geelong, Surf Coast Shire, Queenscliffe, Corangamite, Colac Otway and Golden Plains 8. Rural City of Swan Hill Aboriginal Consultative Committee 9. City of Greater Geelong Aboriginal Sites Working Party 10. City of Greater Shepparton Aboriginal Employment Steering Committee 11. City of Darebin Aboriginal Reconciliation Working Party 12. Inter Council Aboriginal Consultative Committee of Dandenong, Casey, Cardinia, Bass Coast, Kingston, Knox, Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula 13. Maribyrnong City Council Aboriginal Working Party 14. City of Hobson s Bay Aboriginal Working Party 15. LaTrobe Shire Council Aboriginal Advisory Committee 16. Moonee Valley Aboriginal Working Party 17. Inter-Council Aboriginal Advisory Committee of Maribyrnong, Brimbank, Moonee Valley and Hobsons Bay Good Practice - City of Port Phillip / ATSIC Koorie Community - Special Needs Working Party, 1995 Purpose The Working Party was established to guide the implementation of coordinated community development strategies, in order to improve access to services and provide opportunities for self-determination for the Port Phillip Koorie community

102 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Terms of Reference To develop a planning brief for the delivery of services and resources to the Port Phillip Koorie community, based on a commitment to community consultation and participation. To identify and coordinate the allocation of appropriate resources to address the current concerns affecting the Koorie community. To identify issues and establish relevant task groups to develop appropriate strategies. To provide a reporting function and mechanism for task groups. To guide the implementation of strategies in line with relevant Government, Council and organisational policies. To make recommendations to Council, Koorie, government and non-government organisations in relation to issues that may affect the Koorie community of Port Phillip. To conduct regular evaluations and reviews of task group and Working Party outcomes. To ensure communication and exchange of information. Structure of Working Party The Working Party is not a Council committee, but rather a joint Council and ATSIC community advisory and consultative body. Establish initially for 12 months/according to need. Review after 12 months. Meet monthly for the first two meetings in order to ensure establishment of task groups and the setting of clear directions. Further meetings to be on an as needs basis. Chairperson role alternated between the ATSIC Commissioner and the Port Phillip Councillor. The project open to the local Koorie community and the opportunity provided for them to participate on an issue based level. Aim to achieve consensus. Equity of opportunity and participation for all members. Lessons from the City of Port Phillip / ATSIC Koorie Working Party Strengths of Working Party and Task Group Model 1. The ability to identify and bring together a broad range of key players in senior positions within their organisations to address common issues was clearly an important element in achieving outcomes. 102

103 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS 2. The representation at both the Working Party and task group level demonstrated these organisations commitment and enabled effective integration and implementation of strategies. 3. Outcomes would not have been achieved without a strong level of cooperation and clear and honest communication amongst all participants. The redevelopment of Cleve Gardens is a positive example of the strengths of the model. The issue was sensitive but communication remained open and continuous and still continues after temporary recess of the task group. Cooperation featured throughout the process even when opinions differed. Successful outcomes, it is proposed, were attributable to the shared vision and commitment of all parties. 4. Task groups established with a clear and specific focus that drew in relevant expertise and key sector interests were very effective in achieving their objectives, eg. the Police Liaison Task Group and the Cleve Gardens Task Group. 5. The process of identifying and endorsing external expertise and key sector interests for task group membership by the Working Party, strengthened task group outcomes, eg. Cleve Gardens Task Group. Limitations of Working Party and Task Group Model 1. The broad range and fluid membership impacts on consistency and attendance at regular meetings. 2. Fluid membership limits continuity and commitment to achieving outcomes. 3. The current model has achieved many of its objectives, but needs to be reviewed in order to apply the most effective methods for achieving new or developing initiatives. 4. Designated task groups need clear and specific issues/tasks to address if their effectiveness is to be maximised, eg. the employment and youth task groups had to respond to issues that were too broad and ambitious for a task group model. Comment The above strengths and limitations represent the key positive learning s of this model. (Refer Case Study - City of Port Phillip for more information on the Port Phillip approach) 3 103

104 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Good Practice - Local Council Aboriginal Advisory Group City of Yarra Preamble 1. Womin je ka yearmenn koondee bik Wurundjeri balluk 2. Welcome to the land of the Wurundjeri people who are the traditional owners and caretakers of this land which encompasses the City of Yarra. The Wurundjeri territory lies within the inner city of Melbourne and extends from the mountains of the Great Dividing Ranges south to the Yarra River, west to the Werribee River and east to Mount Baw Baw. The Wurundjeri Tribe belong to the Woiwurrung language group and is a part of the Kulin Nation. 3. Aboriginal culture is the oldest living culture in the world today. Its significance to Australian society rests on the premise that it is a culture Indigenous to this country and therefore deserves proper recognition and acknowledgment by this country. 4. Local councils have a key role to play in the local Aboriginal community. This role should not only aim to accommodate the needs of the local Aboriginal community but should also strive to ensure that Aboriginal culture heritage, as the Indigenous culture of this culture, is acknowledged and respected by the entire community. 5. For Victorian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the suburbs of Fitzroy and Collingwood hold special historical meaning. Fitzroy and Collingwood became the central meeting point for all Victorian Aboriginal communities as it was here, during the 1940 s and 1950 s, that Aboriginal families first lived when they moved from country Victoria to Melbourne. This means that Aboriginal people have strong family connections to the area even though their tribal links may lie elsewhere. 6. It was also these areas that witnessed, in the 1960 s and 1970 s, the birth of the very first metropolitan Aboriginal community organisations still in existence today. Most of these are state-wide and cover areas such as Aboriginal health, housing, legal issues, sport and recreation and community and child-care services. In addition, there is a growing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population in the City of Yarra). 7. Council s Corporate Plan 1997/ /2000, specifies that Council will Redistribute resources to provide access to opportunities and services for those in greatest need. As Koorie community groups have been identified as amongst the most disadvantaged, Council is required to establish that its services are accessible to these residents. This requires ongoing consultation with Koorie organisations and community groups to ensure that services are responsive and accessible. 8. Koorie community representation at elected Councillor level and on advisory structures has not been in place since amalgamation. Council s Corporate Plan requires it to Provide opportunities for local communities to be involved in Council decision making processes. In order for this to occur, Council needs to ensure that all its community groups understand its decision making processes and have the resources to be able to participate in these. 104

105 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS 9. Victoria is the only state at present that does not have elected Aboriginal community representatives at local council level. Council sponsored Aboriginal Advisory Groups are one mechanism which promote Aboriginal involvement in municipal decision making including at elected Councillor level and at other levels. Purpose of the Advisory Group The Advisory Group has been established to provide a structure to improve communication and information sharing between the Aboriginal community and Yarra City Council. The Advisory Group will advise Council on Aboriginal community issues and ensure Council s commitment to incorporating Aboriginal community interests in its policy, planning and service delivery activities. It will provide a mechanism for consultation with Koorie community groups in order to increase participation in municipal affairs and to increase the responsiveness of Council. Terms of Reference The City of Yarra Aboriginal Advisory Group will: Develop a draft statement of Commitment to Indigenous Australians. Promote the role of Council in the local Aboriginal community. Identify planning issues and processes for which Council has responsibility and which will impact on Aboriginal interests, and set in place protocols to ensure that these interests are represented. Identify processes to improve the accessibility to Council s services for Aboriginal community members. Set in place a plan to address Aboriginal cultural heritage within Council s planning activities. Provide input to Council s EEO employment policies and procedures in relation to employment and career opportunities for Koorie community members within Council. Develop opportunities for joint initiatives between Yarra City Council and local Koorie communities for active participation in Aboriginal community activities including specific plans for NAIDOC Week in Membership The membership will consist of: ** Representatives of City of Yarra - located Koorie organisations including: Wurundjeri elders ATSIC Commonwealth/State Relations Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Aboriginal Legal Service/Co-operative Ltd Victorian Aboriginal Youth Sport and Recreation Victorian Aboriginal Health Services Co-operative Aboriginal Affairs Victoria Aboriginal Housing Board Fitzroy Stars A Councillor representative A Manager of City Strategy and Council officers as required. The Aboriginal Policy Officer at the Municipal Association of Victoria

106 3 PARTNERSHIPS KEY ACTIONS Chair Chairing of the Advisory Group will be shared between Council and the Aboriginal members as determined by the Group. Structure of the Advisory Group The Advisory Group will meet bi monthly, and will establish task groups as required. The Advisory Group will ensure equity of opportunities and participation for all members. The Advisory Group will provide advice to Council but is not a formal Council committee. Accountability to Council Accountability and reporting to Council will occur through the Manager of City Strategy and the Director, City Strategy and Services. Public Statements As the purpose of the Group is to provide advice to Council, it is not appropriate that it makes public statements on behalf of Council as an independent group. Good Practice - Shire of Glenelg Aboriginal Consultative Committee and Aboriginal Needs Study The Shire of Glenelg (formerly Portland) established an Aboriginal Consultative Committee in August, 1994 in response to the concerns expressed by members of the Koorie community relating to local and statewide issues affecting their daily lives. The Shire of Glenelg received $8,600 under the ALGA Aboriginal Reconciliation Program, to employ an Aboriginal Reconciliation Project Officer for six months to consult with the Portland district, Koorie and non-koorie organisations and agencies in order to identify the issues and needs of the community and to formulate effective strategies from the recommendations made by the Committee. The Shire of Glenelg Aboriginal Consultative Committee in 1994 was represented by: Mike Noske - (former Cr.) City of Portland Kevin Malseed - (former Cr.) Shire of Heywood Leah Kanoa/Sandra Bell - Local Aboriginal Education Consultative Group Michael Bell, former Tumbukka Regional Councillor, ATSIC Damien Bell, Administrator - Winda-Mara Aboriginal Corporation Phemi Day/Alan Smith - Koorie Elders Group Ted Lahey - Portland Secondary College Helen Fraser -Department of Education and Planning David Laird - DEETYA Margaret Herbertson, Department of Planning and Development (Housing) John Wigan, CEO - Portland and District Hospital Snr. Sergeant Peter Skinner - Portland Police Department Amy Saunders - Community Justice Panel Darryl Rose - Koorie Liaison Officer - DEETYA Sandra Onus - Kerrup-Tjmara people

107 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS The Committee appointed Kelvin Onus to the position of Aboriginal Reconciliation Project Officer, who worked closely with the project sub-committee represented by: Kevin Malseed, Mike Noske, Leah Kanoa, Phemi Day and Karen Milward to strengthen the links between the Shire of Glenelg and the Aboriginal community. Kelvin presented the Committee with the Reconciliation Project Report in February, 1995, he addressed the many recommendations outlined and the suggested procedures in which the Consultative Committee could work cooperatively to address issues of employment, housing, health, education, and policing and produce effective outcomes for the Koorie community. (A copy of the Reconciliation Project Report is available from the MAV and the Shire of Glenelg.) Kelvin Onus concluded his report with the following statement: To understand the meaning of reconciliation, is to understand cultural respect! In the context of human change, history as we see it, cannot be made by us. So, so many people believe this. We now have a chance to change history for `ever. Let us not lose sight of this, otherwise we may never heal our respectability for cultural harmony and ideally we must save what cultural harmony we have left, and set the example, for our children are the ancestor s of tomorrow. No matter how hard one tries to forget the past, this is unachievable, for the person who chooses to do this will have difficulty in knowing the difference between their dreams and reality. You will then become sick and the healing process is so very painful. All member s of today s society, must have respect for history, no matter how bad or good it may have been, we are now facing reality to the point of reconciliation. We all must learn to live culturally, socially and emotionally healthy. To achieve this, will not be easy and we all recognise this. Positive thinking, reasonably, responsibly and rationally, will take us into the sphere of positive healthy thoughts and will give us the courage and will to find the necessary answer s along the way to reforms compatible and acceptable to all of humankind. the beginnings of this process, is already in place, the healing process has begun. We must, as responsible people, not loose sight or direction of this. In real sense, we have already made history and now is the time to move with this history and protect it with all our strengths. Achievements so far, have been magnificent and I m proud to have been lucky to have been a small part of this process. Reconciliation does wonder s for your heart and your soul, for which is possessed by every human being, it just needs to be drawn out and exercised. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those involved for this so very important time in our lives... thank you and love you. The Committee has been implementing the recommendations since February, 1995 which included the employment of an Aboriginal Project Officer with DEETYA funds through the Winda-Mara Aboriginal Co-operative for six months to implement the recommended employment strategies

108 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Local Government Aboriginal Policy Officers Background and Objectives This National program of funding Aboriginal Policy Officers in the ALGA and state Associations was initiated by the National Office of Local Government (NOLG) and supported by DEETYA in the first three years. The current program is funded under the Local Government Development Program with NOLG negotiating with Associations to commit to joint funding positions currently operating at the ALGA and in Victoria, NSW, NT, SA and Queensland. The positions have been recognised as a key to a whole of Local Government approach whilst facilitating action at the local level between Councils and their Indigenous communities. In Victoria, important milestone achievements to date include: 22 Aboriginal Cross Cultural Awareness Training Sessions for 2,500 Local Government representatives Established 18 Local Government Aboriginal Advisory Committees and Working Parties Facilitated development of the Gippsland eco tourism Bataluk Cultural Trail project Co-ordinated development of NAIDOC Week Celebrations and Reconciliation Week Celebrations with Local Government and Aboriginal communities Co-ordination and support to Local Council Aboriginal Policy Officers and Liaison Officers Promoted employment and training opportunities for Aboriginal People in Local Government Promoted effective partnership agreement between Local Government, ATSIC and ATSIC Regional Councils Promoted recognition and understanding of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage issues through Cultural Heritage workshops for Local Government Provided information on Native Title and promoted regional agreements between Local Government and Aboriginal communities Published three MAV Local Government Koorie newsletters In 1998/99 the MAV s Aboriginal Policy Officer, program s initiatives focus on: Representation of Indigenous people as elected members of Victoria s Councils Building interagency State level co-ordinating links between MAV, ATSIC, DEETYA, Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, Sport and Recreation Victoria, Council for Reconciliation AFR - World Vision, OLG, Tourism and Arts Victoria and the Department of Natural Resources and Environment. 108

109 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS 3 Developing formal links between ATSIC s two Victorian Regional Councils and the MAV. Development of the MAV s Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network as a mechanism to assist Councils in working with Indigenous peoples to achieve initially agreed objectives. In addition to the MAV s Aboriginal Policy Officer will continue to support Council appointed Aboriginal Policy Officers. Currently there are two officers - Shire of Yarra Ranges and the City of Port Phillip - with broad ranging positions. A dedicated Aboriginal Officer also with responsibilities for the HACC program is employed at LaTrobe Shire Council; an Aboriginal Officer with the City of Greater Geelong and a new shared approach is proposed for the north eastern metropolitan region s Inter-Council Aboriginal Consultative Committee, comprising eight councils to be based at the City of Greater Dandenong. If your Council is interested to employ an Aboriginal Policy Officer, check the following steps: Checklist: Seek the advice of the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer as to whether it is viable to employ an Aboriginal Policy Officer in your Council and region. If it is viable, seek the advice of your local Aboriginal community (including all factions and organisations) as to whether the Aboriginal community approve and support such a position within Council. If the above are supportive of the employment of an Aboriginal Policy Officer within Council an Aboriginal Advisory/Consultative Committee or Working Party needs to be established (as explained in the previous section). The Committee will meet to determine the objectives and outcomes of the Aboriginal Policy Officer Position to be employed within Council and a proposal to be made to the local DEETYA area office to support partial funding of the position. The current positions are for a two year duration with the intention of full time, permanency within the local Council. The positions will eventually move into mainstream of council, providing more employment opportunities for Indigenous people within the council and the region. (Please note that DEETYA have partially funded the current three Aboriginal Policy Officers with local Councils funding the remaining amounts for the position.) 109

110 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS EMPLOYMENT Aboriginal Policy Officer Community Services SALARY: Band 6 - $ $ per week POSITION OBJECTIVE: To raise the profile of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander affairs in the Shire of Yarra Ranges and ensure equitable access to Local Government services. To strengthen the links between the Shire of Yarra Ranges, the Koorie community and the wider community. PRE-REQUISITES In this position, Aboriginality of applicants is a genuine occupational qualification under the Equal Opportunity Act (Vic) (40) (e). Current Drivers Licence. SELECTION CRITERIA: Please Note: Applicants must state in their application how they meet the selection criteria which are in order of priority. 1. Knowledge and understanding of local Aboriginal culture. 2. Ability to liaise with Aboriginal people and the wider community. 3. Ability to explain complex issues with clarity and tact. 4. Ability to negotiate, mediate and solve community and individual problems. 5. Willingness to be trained in current computer applications. 6. Commitment to the provision of high quality policies, programs and services to Aboriginal people. 7. Willing to work in a team and as a sole operator. Further information can be obtained by phoning Lyn Hayes on ext This position is open to permanent employees only. Applications close February 13, 1996 at midday. Applications with name, address and phone number typed in top right hand corner of front, should be forwarded to: Human Resources Unit, Lilydale District Office, Anderson Street (PO Box 105) Lilydale, E M P L O Y M E N T THE SHIRE OF YARRA RANGES PROMOTES A HEALTHY, SAFE AND DISCRIMINATION FREE WORK ENVIRONMENT. Shire of Yarra Ranges 7 February, Aboriginal Policy Officer - Joy Murphy Appointed May, 1996

111 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Position Objectives: To raise the profile of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and so develop a greater understanding of their issues within Local Government and the wider community. Establish and strengthen closer links between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities and with the wider community. Increase the number of permanent employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Shire of Yarra Ranges Increase the level of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation on Shire of Yarra Ranges decision making forums. Provide advice and to assist in all aspects of economic development and tourism to enhance the Aboriginal culture and heritage within the Shire of Yarra Ranges. Provide advice and assessment of policy issues in the Shire of Yarra Ranges involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, i.e Shire Corporate Plan and Annual Report. Actions and Outcomes 1997: Employment and Training Initiatives Development of education and training needs of local Aboriginal people with the possibility of developing units in relation to childcare, performing arts, cultural heritage and hospitality. Aboriginal trainees in the youth area. Aboriginal assistant for the Yarra Ranges Health Needs Study. Aboriginal Project Officer for the Local Council Remembers Project. Grant received through ALGA to collate material and develop the travelling, photographic publication and exhibition in honour of Aboriginal Servicemen in the Shire of Yarra Ranges. Work experience in land management and conservation. 3 Art, Culture and Heritage Initiatives Heritage Walking Trails in Healesville - To include Aboriginal signage and photographs. Aboriginal involvement in council s citizenship ceremonies. This includes official welcoming ceremony from local Wurundjeri elder and hand painted Aboriginal gifts to be presented to new citizens. Aboriginal Festivities included in the Healesville Gateway Festival. Book Launches and performances from the Worowa College Aboriginal Dance Group at Healesville Sanctuary. Culturally appropriate re-naming of various Health Services. Program and Service Delivery Victorian Grants Commission Funding received for widening of the Road which leads to the Aboriginal College and Cemetery. Provision of Street lights on the Worowa College Property. Provision of goal posts for the Football Oval at Worowa College. Culturally appropriate Maternal and Child Health Forms. 111

112 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Committee established to address re-naming of streets in the Municipality. Koorie Health Needs Study - 4 months to determine health needs of the Aboriginal community and the possibility of employing an Aboriginal Liaison Officer with the Healesville & District Hospital. Shire of Yarra Ranges youth needs study completed. Ongoing discussions and advice to sections of community services within the Shire of Yarra Ranges for development and delivery of programs and funding issues. Participation and liaison with Infrastructure and leisure services, corporate services, planning and environment and community services. Training and Information Sessions Four Aboriginal Cross Cultural Awareness Training Sessions for Commissioners, CEO, Managers and staff of Council, local Government departments and agencies, interested residents, Shopkeepers, etc. Participation from Commissioners to Open Days at Worowa Aboriginal College, Oonah TAFE College for new developments and opening of Galena Beek Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Participation from the Aboriginal community in the Suicide Intervention Counselling Training Sessions, Youth Art Competitions, the Youth Leadership Program and Healesville Sanctuary Annual Student Conservation Conference to experience Aboriginal connections to the land. Workshop for Council staff on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Act. Briefing sessions on the Native Title Act for Council Staff. NAIDOC Week and Reconciliation Week Celebrations Elders Luncheon - included Koories and non-koories. Sport & Recreation Day under Councils youth program. Aboriginal Flag Raising Ceremony. Local Elders on the local Talk Back Radio station. Council provided medals, awards and certificates for local Koorie achievers. Launch of Book - Rites, Water & Dreaming and Koorie education video kit at Healesville Sanctuary. Art Exhibition at TAFE College Secondary Schools participation in Holiday camps, ceramics making, cultural talks and swimming competition. Local Committees Member of Aboriginal Health Advisory Group Co-ordinator of Bridging the Gap - Walking Together Regional Committees MAV Local Government Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Intergovernmental Reference Group. Swinburne University Australian Indigenous Consultative Assembly Eastern College of TAFE Aboriginal Advisory Committee Mirimbiak Nations Aboriginal Corporation Healesville/Yarra Glen Police Consultative Committee 112

113 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Library Services 3 Introduction The 1996 ALGA General Assembly endorsed a review of all public library collections to ensure Indigenous issues are portrayed accurately and with cultural appropriateness. Protocols The following protocols are intended as an example to guide libraries, archives and information services in appropriate ways to interact with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the communities which the organisations serve, and to handle materials with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander content. The protocols have been developed by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) and endorsed by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Library and Information Resource Network (ATSILIRN). They are a guide to good practice that will need to be interpreted and applied in the context of each library s mission, collections and client community. As Councils are major funders and providers of libraries and protocols have been developed, improved service delivery should be targeted as a priority by Councils and Regional Library Boards. The protocols address: the recognition of the moral rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the owners of their knowledge other important issues arising from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander content and perspective s in documentary materials, media and traditional cultural property issues in access to libraries, archives and information resources by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples encouragement for both the involvement and the participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the governance and operation of libraries, archives and information services; and appropriate representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander peoples and their cultures in libraries, archives and information services. Content and Perspectives Look carefully at the way Aboriginal people are portrayed in libraries, and reach out to Aboriginal people and demonstrate participation in an area which they were excluded from for a long time. Many of the records, books, images and other materials held by Australian libraries, archives and information services include depiction s of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culture and experience presented from a variety of perspectives. Major institutions have a responsibility to ensure that their collections are comprehensive, inclusive and reflective of all perspectives. These collections may include sensitive material that needs to be handled with special care. Smaller institutions may have a more specialised collecting focus. 113

114 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS In developing and managing collections, organisations will follow good archival and/or library practice. Additionally, in order to respond appropriately to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and issues, organisations should consider the following strategies: Consult in an appropriate and ongoing manner with relevant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in regard to the development and management of the collections. Seek to balance collections by acquiring material by as well as that about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In the case of government archives, consult through the relevant government agency. Agencies should be advised of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander content of materials and appropriate access policies. Promote the existence and availability of collections and provide clients with an explanation for any conditions governing access. Facilitate the development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community keeping places. Libraries, archives and information services will: Become aware of the issues surrounding cultural documentation and the need for cultural awareness training. Develop proper professional recognition of the primary cultural and intellectual property rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and consult with appropriate Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples on their application. Develop ways, including the recognition of moral rights, to protect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural and intellectual property. Share information on initiatives involving cultural documentation. Aboriginal people who have written about libraries and other resource centres have invariably mentioned how important it is to feel comfortable in them. This includes having approachable staff members, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander faces amongst the staff, an easy atmosphere and pleasant surroundings. Friendly staff will mean that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples do not feel intimidated by an alien Anglo-American system or inadvertently made to feel inferior if they do not know how to find information. Libraries, archives and information services will: Develop and implement clear statements of the types of resources and services Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples want by initiating consultation to determine appropriate resources and services. Employ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in visible areas such as reference and other service points as well as in other public roles such as client liaison. 114

115 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Employ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as liaison officers to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and/or communities served by the organisation ensuring that the liaison is ongoing, responding to the changing interests and needs of Aboriginal and Torrse Strait Islander peoples. Ensure accessibility by encouraging and fostering positive relationships between staff members and clients including peoples from all backgrounds. Promote libraries, archives and information services in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Encourage the use of the organisation s facilities as meeting places and resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Involve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the planning, design and layout of libraries, archives and information services to create welcoming and suitable environments. Consult with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at local, state/territory and national levels in relation to the description, cataloguing and classification of materials in libraries, archives and information services. Libraries, archives and information services which serve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and/or hold materials with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander content or perspective s should ensure the involvement and participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in governance, management and operation. Such agencies will: Ensure appropriate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander membership of governing and advisory bodies including boards, councils and committees. Ensure meaningful Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in effective development, adoption and implementation of relevant policies. Develop mechanisms to ensure effective monitoring and review of policy implementation. Facilitate organisational change to accommodate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives. Awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and Issues. Ignorance and fear on the part of the dominant communities often influences the way those societies deal with Indigenous communities. Libraries have a duty to dispel that ignorance. Libraries, archives and information services can contribute to greater understanding between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non- Indigenous peoples, in pursuing this national aim, information agencies will: Be proactive in the role of educator, promoting awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and issues among non-indigenous people. Be pro-active in acquiring materials produced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and organisations. Highlight Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander content and perspectives through such means as oral history and indexing and record copying projects. Promote awareness and use of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander related holdings, by such means as targeted guides, funding aids, tours and exhibitions

116 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Employment / Economic Development/Tourism Initiatives Introduction With the involvement of DEETYA as a cofunder of the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer position in the first three years, emphasis was placed on the creation of employment for Indigenous people. In a period of Council amalgamations, (210 to 78) dramatic staff reductions, and Councils focusing on state requirements for market testing under Compulsory Competitive Tendering, the task of increasing Aboriginal employment in Councils has been difficult and has required innovative approaches. Recognising the importance of the State Association based Aboriginal Policy Officer positions in producing tangible outcomes for Indigenous people, the strategy has been to promote Council employment of a dedicated Indigenous officer with broad roles. This has been successful in Port Phillip and Yarra Ranges and there is agreement to base an officer at the City of Greater Dandenong to serve the Councils and communities in that region. As exemplified by the information in this Guide, Council Indigenous officers in time open up opportunities for other Aboriginal people. For example, the position of Koorie Arts Development Officer at the City of Port Phillip is a permanent part time position now fully funded by Council. Another avenue of employment has been identified in tourism and local economic development. The Bataluk Cultural Trail has been a major area of involvement for the MAV s Aboriginal Policy Officer. The Trail, in East Gippsland, demonstrates how a cultural tourism project can contribute to economic development of both the Indigenous and wider communities and in doing so open up new employment opportunities. The Trail project was able to access a range of job creation funds previously available from DEETYA. These avenues no longer exist. Therefore, Councils, ATSIC Regional Councils and Indigenous communities as they develop positive linking relationships will need to explore new ways of opening up employment opportunities eg. Indigenous enterprises could be encouraged to tender for Local Government contracts. 116

117 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Good Practice - Bataluk Cultural Trail [Bataluk is a Gunai (Kurnai) word meaning lizard] Recognising the emerging importance of economic development in providing opportunities and tangible outcomes for Indigenous people the MAV s Aboriginal Policy Officer, Karen Milward has played a key role in supporting development of the Bataluk Cultural Trail. Beginnings This exciting eco-tourism project initiated in 1994 has been progressing through a coordinated and cooperative approach jointly formulated between the Aboriginal elders representing the five Aboriginal communities and eight local Councils within the East Gippsland region (since amalgamations - two super Councils - East Gippsland and Wellington Shire Councils) and the MAV. This is the first time in the history of East Gippsland that Aboriginal culture and heritage is acknowledged, significantly improving the profile of the Aboriginal community by identifying positive employment and training opportunities for Aboriginal people in the region through the Bataluk Cultural Trail. The Trail covers approximately 500kms from Sale to Cann River, identifying 15 Aboriginal sites for people to visit. The Trail enhances Aboriginal art and craft, flora and fauna and identifies areas of spiritual significance to the Aboriginal community. This enables tourists to discover Aboriginal culture and history from Dreamtime stories and lifestyles before contact with Europeans, early conflicts and life on the missions, through to contemporary Koorie society. Funding The Trail was originally managed by the East Gippsland Municipalities Human Services Committee which formed the Bataluk Cultural Trail Management Committee and has generated nearly $1 million in funds through the ILAP (Integrated Local Area Planning) Program, the Shires of East Gippsland and Wellington, DEETYA, ATSIC, the Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Lakes and Wilderness Tourism, East Gippsland College of TAFE, Sport and Recreation Victoria and the five Aboriginal communities. Facilitation The Committee initially employed Facilitator, Campbell Gome, to develop the infrastructure necessary to coordinate and identify the significant sites, issues and employment opportunities for the project. Campbell worked closely with John Pender, an Aboriginal Trail trainee for the first ten months of the project (John then continued in the Facilitator s position) to develop the necessary skills to Launch of the Bataluk Cultural Trail, The Knob Reserve. Former Aboriginal Affairs Minister, Robert Tickner and Dr John Jago, Co-Chair BCT Committee Lake Tyers promote and manage the success of the Trail. 3 Collon Mullett, AAV Hertige Officer at Canoe Tree, Burnt Bridge, Lake Tyers Reserve. 117

118 3 PARTNERSHIPS KEY ACTIONS Employment Creation Some of the positive employment opportunities which have been identified for Indigenous and non-indigenous people are in the areas of economic development, social planning and in many areas of tourism: tour guides, interpreters, information officers, cultural officers, river rafting, cultural artefact guides, traditional dance, sales, administration, site maintenance, story tellers, artists, and other performing arts, etc for the region associated with the Bataluk Cultural Trail. The Trail has employed an Aboriginal Coordinator and Facilitator to manage a work crew of 20 Aboriginal people under the DEETYA New Work Opportunities program to maintain and manage the sites on the Trail through the erection of Tourist directional signage on the Princes Highway and the interpretive signage at the Sites themselves. Committee members launch at The Knob Reserve, Stratford The Aboriginal history of the area is being promoted widely through the development of this signage which includes the logo (depicting the lizard), guided tours, an effective cross cultural awareness program, brochures and a video and through the integration of relevant government departments, Aboriginal organisations and other major stakeholders. An Aboriginal Film Company produced the promotional video for the Trail which has been distributed to Tourism organisations, schools, Koorie organisations and government departments. The Facilitator compiled and produced the information for the promotional brochure which has been distributed everywhere. A local Aboriginal artist, Richard Mullett designed the logo for the Trail which is printed on all promotion material and is the basis of a mural in the local Tourism Information Centre in Bairnsdale. Aboriginal consultants have been coordinating Aboriginal Cross Cultural Awareness Training programs for Local Government, tourism organisations and the wider community associated with the Trail in the region and facilitating workshops for the local Aboriginal community to address current issues with the Trail. Aboriginal caterers have provided all the meals for the meetings, launches and tours associated with the Trail. This includes the local Aboriginal Bakery in Orbost. Business Plan An Indigenous Business Plan for the Trail has been developed by the local Victorian Eastern Development Association (VEDA) to ensure that local Indigenous communities continue to plan for and control the ongoing goals of training, economic development, site access, and continue to identify more employment opportunities etc, which are associated with the Trail. The Trail is raising awareness of Indigenous issues, and improving the communication channels at many levels in the East Gippsland region. Tourists on the Trail site visits, Orbost

119 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Promotion The Bataluk Cultural Trail project is generating a great deal of interest and support among the Aboriginal communities in the region. There has been some excellent publicity and media coverage to raise awareness of the Trail among the wider community and the tourist market. Consolidation Entertainment, launch, The Knob Reserve, Stratford The Trail Project has involved many local community people in providing advice and ideas on what is important to make this initiative work effectively for the future of everyone in East Gippsland. This is proof that projects and initiatives can be developed, sustained and effectively managed at the local community level. Sights to visit along the Trail: Ramahyuck Aboriginal Co-operative in Foster Street, Sale. (Proposed historical display of the Ramahyuck Mission and local art retailing) Wetlands Centre of Victoria near Lake Guthridge (Information on Gunai plant use, brochure on Koorie involvement with the wetlands) Ramahyuck Warehouse, Raglan Street, Sale (Screen printing and retail outlet) Regional Art Gallery, Sale (Proposed permanent Indigenous Exhibition space) Ramahyuck Co-operative farm, Stratford (Garden, Vineyard and Wildflowers) Main Street, Stratford (Proposed Aboriginal Mural) The Knob Reserve, Stratford (Traditional Meeting Place, Scarred Trees and Grinding Stones) The Den of Nargun - Mitchell River (Dreamtime stories) Gippsland and East Gippsland Aboriginal Co-operative, Dalmahoy St, Bairnsdale (Krowathunkoolong, Keeping Place, Indigenous plant trail and Burned Scar Tree) Howitt Park, Bairnsdale (Canoe Tree) The Legend Rock, Metung (Dreamtime Stories) Burnt Bridge Road, Lake Tyers (Picnic Area in natural bush setting, information centre to provide information on history of Lake Tyers, Aboriginal culture] Buchan Caves, Bruthen Aboriginal direcrional signage, Orbost (Carvings, archaeological sites 12,000 years old, Dreamtime stories and creatures) 3 David Hewitt, Snowy River House Boat Tours 119

120 3 PARTNERSHIPS KEY ACTIONS Moogji Aboriginal Co-operative, Orbost (Arts and crafts sales, guided walks of Co-op & garden, proposed gallery and interpretive tours of Co-op to Cape Conran) Snowy River Houseboats, Orbost (Interpretive cruises) Orbost Rainforest Centre (Rainforest Aboriginal plant use trail, school holiday activities - in conjunction with the Moogji Aboriginal Council) Marlo/Cape Conran (Shell Middens) nullak gundji, Cann River (High quality wood products, arts and crafts, etc, proposed artist workshops, nature trail and picnic/bbq Facilities) Some locations for example, (Cloggs Cave, Ramahyuck Cemetery and massacre sites) are too sensitive to be opened up for unrestricted public access as these are places which should only be visited in the company of a qualified Indigenous guide. The booklet which describes the Trail and the existence of these places may be mentioned to ensure that a complete and true picture of Aboriginal East Gippsland is presented, but their exact location will not be publicised on maps or signs. The Trail project has involved many local community people in providing advice and ideas on what is important to make this initiative work effectively for the future of everyone in East Gippsland. This is proof that projects and initiatives can be developed, sustained and effectively managed at the local community level. Good Practice - City Of Greater Shepparton - Aboriginal Employment Unit A partnership between the local Council, DEETYA and local Indigenous people facilitated job placements in the private and public sectors for local unemployed Aboriginal people. The Aboriginal Employment Unit was established in 1992 to address the unemployment issue facing the local Aboriginal community in the Shepparton region. The successful unit funded through DEETYA, and auspiced by the Greater City of Shepparton for four years was coordinated by a team of six Indigenous people. The broad objectives of the Unit were to: achieve an equitable representation of Aboriginal employees in the work force achieve equity in job security for Aboriginal people; ensure that Aboriginal employees have equal access to career development; and extend the range of occupational categories open to Aboriginal people The Unit provided employment and training opportunities for over 500 Aboriginal people. These positions covered the areas of clerical and administration; apprenticeships; semi-skilled; miscellaneous/casual/temporary/part-time; managerial and technical traineeships and cadetships, etc within Local Government and private sector companies and organisations. The success was due to the ingenuity, determination and commitment of Len, Leonie, Kerrie, Robert, Karen and Michelle working together as a team at the local level, towards improved employment outcomes for their Aboriginal community.

121 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS The Unit, managed by a local steering committee in Council s Economic Development Section was closed in October, 1996 following withdrawal of DEETYA funding. City of Greater Shepparton - Fruit Connection Tourism Project This project evolved from a perceived need for a tourist information centre, rest and refreshment facility, to service tourists travelling across Victoria, via the Midland Highway. This $700,000 project has given the local economy a significant lift, as 90% of the materials and labour for construction were sourced locally. The successful contractors were a local company which employed two Aboriginal builders and one labourer to construct the Fruit Connection Building. The site Daish s Paddock, on which the building is located and the adjoining area on the edge of the river, known as The Flats has spiritual significance to the Aboriginal community. Whilst Daish s Paddock is owned by the Shepparton Council, it was felt that through the development of the Fruit Connection, there were opportunities to acknowledge the importance of the 5.6ha site to the local Aboriginal community and also develop an excellent tourist attraction, emphasising the local Aboriginal culture. Shepparton Council received funding through DEETYA to employ 19 local young Aboriginal people and 11 non-aboriginal people to work in teams. These teams built and produced the red gum outdoor picnic settings for the site, designed and developed the entire concept for the adventure playground in the shape of the long neck turtle, which is the totem of the Yorta Yorta tribe for the region. The teams also developed walking trails along the edge of the site adjacent to the State Forest, the planting of thousands of native trees and shrubs and landscaping of the lawns and gardens surrounding the Fruit Connection building. The teams also undertook the survey of the Flats area, pinpointing Aboriginal campsites and other significant landmarks and researched the local Aboriginal history through interviews with Aboriginal Elders. This history has now been compiled and documented. The majority of the young people employed on the project gained full time employment through the Council in the parks and gardens area, the local nursery and at the Goulburn Valley Group Training organisation. A young Aboriginal man was employed as a tour guide and to maintain the gardens and lawns at the Fruit Connection on a permanent basis

122 3 PARTNERSHIPS KEY ACTIONS Cultural Heritage Introduction Aboriginal cultural heritage issues are very important to the Indigenous community of Victoria. The MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer has therefore been educating local Councils on the importance of protection, maintenance and management of Victoria s Aboriginal Cultural Heritage. In June, 1996, the MAV in conjunction with Aboriginal Affairs Victoria and Environs Australia co-ordinated a Seminar, Indigenous and Local Government: Conserving Our Cultural Heritage, hosted by Whittlesea City Council. The Seminar was attended by over 100 representatives from local Councils, tertiary institutions, environmental agencies and the Indigenous Cultural Officers and Indigenous Site Officers who are currently maintaining and protecting Victoria s local Aboriginal Cultural Heritage. Several recommendations were made from the four Seminar workshops which continue to be addressed by various Government agencies in conjunction with the MAV, Environs Australia and AAV. One of these recommendations was to convene several similar seminars regionally in Victoria with a more co-ordinated approach by government departments and Local Government. The aim would be to assist their local Indigenous communities to protect and maintain local Aboriginal cultural heritage sites through a joint management process and appropriate protocol process agreements. (Refer s for the complete Final recommendations). As a result the next workshop was coordinated by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, MAV, Environs Australia and AAV in conjunction with the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative in Geelong. It focussed on appropriate protocols and communication mechanisms to assist the Indigenous community with planning issues related to coastal areas. This protocol is currently in development stage. The MAV will be co-ordinating future Cultural Heritage Seminars in the Gippsland and East Gippsland region in late 1998 in conjunction with AAV, DNRE and local Aboriginal communities in relation to the Review of the Heritage Protection Act, Indigenous Protocols in land management and development. More recently the Frankston City Council has developed an example of an appropriate heritage overlay control to be implemented in local Municipal Strategic Statement Planning Policies to ensure the adequate protection of Aboriginal sites and areas of archaeological significance. To date, five local Councils have conducted Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Studies in their municipalities to identify and record Aboriginal Sites of significance and to guide the Council to develop appropriate strategies to protect, maintain and manage these sites in the future. The MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer will continue to encouraged Victorian Councils in conjunction with the currently established Local Council Aboriginal Advisory Committees to develop Statements of Commitment to Indigenous communities which is the basis for developing future strategies and initiatives between Local Councils and their Indigenous communities. Canoe Tree

123 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Aboriginal Affairs Victoria (AAV) AAV is the central point of advice to the Victorian Government on all matters affecting Victoria s Aboriginal people. Preparation of this advice is based on continual liaison with Aboriginal communities and individuals, to develop programs that meet the needs of Aboriginal people. An important aspect of the work of AAV is to promote knowledge and understanding within the wider community of Victoria s Aboriginal people and their history. AAV is made up of four branches: Planning and Development Heritage Services Portfolio Services and Aboriginal Housing. Planning and Development Responsible for development, co-ordination and monitoring of Victorian Government policies and programs relating to Aboriginal Affairs. This wideranging role includes: ensuring that the needs and aspirations of Aboriginal people are taken into account during the development and delivery of Victorian Government services liaising with Aboriginal communities and organisations concerning utilisation of Victorian Government resources; promoting the development of effective partnerships between government and Aboriginal community representatives. Heritage Services Responsible for policies and programs relating to investigation, interpretation and management of Victoria s Aboriginal cultural heritage. Key activities include: undertaking field investigations and research in co-operation with regional Aboriginal communities overseeing a program of management works to protect endangered places and sites maintaining a register of about 20,000 known Aboriginal places and sites, and administering Victoria s Aboriginal Cultural Heritage legislation. Portfolio Services Manages grants to Victoria s Aboriginal organisations to support a range of projects which enhance the community s service infrastructure (for example, through construction of buildings and other facilities), promote economic development initiatives, and support community-based cultural programs. Also maintains a library and information services operating from AAV s offices at 115 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy MAV, AAV and Environs Australia Cultural Heritage seminar, Whittlesea. Albert Mullett & Collon Mullett CCAT, Lakes Entrance. Brian Patterson, AAV Cultural Officer at the Shire of Yarra Ranges CCAT. Stewart Simmons, Senior Archeaologist, AAV 3 123

124 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Aboriginal Housing Co-ordinates the Victorian Aboriginal Rental Housing Program, and provides an effective link between the Aboriginal Housing Board of Victoria and the Department of Human Services. Key activities include: ensuring implementation of the Aboriginal Housing Board s directions relating to tenancy and stock management supervising and supporting regionally-based Aboriginal Housing Services Officers advising the Aboriginal Housing Board on Departmental issues and policies relating to housing matters. AAV Cultural Heritage Program - (Source: AAV News - Vol 1. No.4 - March, 1997) An exciting new era for community direction in the preservation of Aboriginal culture and heritage in Victoria is about to commence. This follows a review of the Aboriginal Cultural Officers Program undertaken by AAV in The Cultural Officers Program has operated in Victoria since The Director of AAV, Tony Cahir, explained that: It employs Cultural Officers to promote and increase knowledge and understanding of Victoria s Aboriginal cultural and heritage. Twenty-four community organisations across the state are currently funded for this purpose. The review was undertaken to determine what Program reforms were required to ensure that Aboriginal Cultural Heritage issues in Victoria are promoted and protected. An extensive consultation process was undertaken by the consultants Lewis and Coleman, providing opportunities for Cultural Officers, management groups and Aboriginal communities to comment on the existing Program and offer suggestions for Program reform. Mr Cahir outlined the major findings of the review: 1. The establishment of Regional Cultural Heritage Bodies, which will include representatives from each Aboriginal community with expertise in cultural heritage, education or any other relevant experience. These bodies will report to AAV and the Aboriginal communities on cultural heritage matters, as well as being directly responsible for the administration of the Cultural Heritage program. 2. The replacement of individual cultural officers with five regional teams. Although the final make-up of each team is yet to be determined, as further consultation with the community is continuing, each team will consist of the following personnel: A Program Co-ordinator responsible for the management of staff, with the overall responsibility for cultural heritage matters in one particular region. A Site Protection Officer responsible for the identification, recording and management of Aboriginal sites in one particular region. 124 One or more Education Officers responsible for the education of Koorie children and young people on local history, stories and language as well as ensuring links with Elders. the Education Officers will be responsible for the education of the general

125 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS community regarding Aboriginal cultural heritage through talks at schools, service clubs, community groups, etc. and A Trainee to support all these activities, who will be fully trained in cultural heritage matters. The funding for the new program will be allocated on a needs-basis over a three year period. AAV will work with the Regional Cultural Heritage Bodies to develop annual work plans, relevant performance measures and to negotiate expected Program outputs. Consultation based on a discussion paper issued by AAV December, last year, has been arranged with Aboriginal communities during February-March to finalise the implementation of this exciting new program in each of the five regions. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Amendment Act 1987 Introduction This Act, which has been passed by the Commonwealth Parliament, amends the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984, by adding a part (Part 11A) which applies only in Victoria. Aims of the Act The Act established a legal structure to enable the cultural heritage of the Aboriginal people of Victoria to be preserved and protected. The Act seeks to involve local Aboriginal communities in the protection of their cultural heritage, in particular the protection of sites of significance and for the return of these objects of religious, cultural or historical significance and for the return of these objects to Aboriginal control. The terms Aboriginal cultural property, Aboriginal folklore, Aboriginal object and Aboriginal place are defined in the Act (see s.21a(1)) and should be studied carefully. What action can be taken to protect Aboriginal cultural property? The Act provides for three forms of declaration of preservation to be made in order to protect Aboriginal cultural property. These are:- An emergency declaration of preservation A temporary declaration of preservation A declaration of preservation. A declaration of preservation is an order stating that certain things must or must not be done. The penalties for breaching a declaration of preservation are severe. When the declaration relates to an Aboriginal place the maximum penalties are a fine up to $10,000 or 5 years jail or both (in the case of a company the maximum fine is $50,000). When the declaration relates to an Aboriginal object the maximum penalties are a fine up to $5,000 or 2 years jail or both (in the case of a company the maximum fine is $25,000). What action can be taken to return Aboriginal cultural property to local Aboriginal communities? Compulsory Acquisition. Compulsory Acquisition means buying without the consent of the owner. The Act provides that the Minister may compulsorily acquire any Aboriginal cultural property if 3 125

126 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS the Minister is satisfied that:- the property is of such religious, historical or cultural significance that it is irreplaceable; and no other arrangements can be made to ensure its preservation. If property is compulsorily acquired it is to be held by the local Aboriginal community on trust for its members. Any person whose property is compulsorily acquired is entitled to receive fair and reasonable compensation from the Commonwealth. Aboriginal skeletal remains. If any person discovers that he/she reasonably believes to be Aboriginal skeletal remains that discovery must be reported to the Minister. When the Minister receives such a report, he/she must consult with a local Aboriginal community in order to determine what should be done with the remains. When skeletal remains are returned to the Minister he/she must return the remains to a local community or transfer them to a prescribed authority if there is no appropriate local Aboriginal community. When a local Aboriginal community receives skeletal remains it must deal with them in accordance with Aboriginal tradition. A local Aboriginal community may request the Minister to negotiate with a university, museum or other institution holding Aboriginal skeletal remains for the return of those remains to the community. What are local Aboriginal communities? Local Aboriginal communities are set out in the Schedule to the Act. They are Aboriginal groups incorporated under the State or Commonwealth Law. The local Aboriginal community in each area will have the primary responsibility for the administration of the Act. Local Aboriginal communities may apply for declarations of preservation, enter into Aboriginal Culture Heritage Agreements, receive and look after Aboriginal cultural property which is compulsorily acquired, receive and look after skeletal remains, advise the Minister on the appointment of inspectors, appoint honorary keepers or wardens and grant or refuse consent for excavation and scientific research. The Regulations will set out the parts of Victoria for which each local Aboriginal community is responsible. 126

127 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS 3 INDIGENOUS AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONSERVING OUR CULTURAL HERITAGE SEMINAR Whittlesea City Council, Thursday, 13 June, 1996 RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE FOUR WORKSHOPS Legislative Requirements Interpretation Bataluk Cultural Trail Improving Communications between Indigenous and Local Government WORKSHOP A - LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENTS 1. How could you use some of the things you have heard about today in your work? National Estate Registered sites should be added to planning overlays (cover 1% of sites). The overlay controls work process for I.D. of key sites is in place. Regional basis for sites of significance. Sites of significance - spiritual vs concrete very difficult. Rec: AAV to transfer information to Local Government. New Municipal boundaries O.K. Rec: AAV can assist with sites located in these boundaries. No legislative requirements to include Archaeological surveys in the planning process but charges need to be made for desecration of sites. Tertiary education courses in the planning areas need beefing up. Rec: AAV could advise on the preparation of curriculum. State planning review should incorporate Indigenous sites. 2. What can we - Local Government, AAV, Environs Australia, etc do to ensure that Local Government helps in the conservation of Indigenous cultural heritage. Environs Australia to publicise good practice planning examples for Councils. Rec: MAV is currently drafting a good practice manual for councils on appropriate Indigenous protocols and what to do and what not to do. AAV currently working with Whittlesea City Council on planning controls. (Heritage Victoria) Rec: More Local Government/MAV/AAV/Environs Australia Indigenous Workshops but to include Heritage Council. WORKSHOP B - INTERPRETATION 1. How could you use some of the things you have heard about today in your work? Make contact with the Aboriginal cultural officers and site officers. Make contact with the Aboriginal communities or co-operatives directly. Find funding for site interpretation signs - pamphlets, brochures, etc. Promote concept that Aboriginal/Indigenous heritage is Australia s heritage. Encourage ownership. Be proud of having the oldest living culture in the world - here in OZ. Develop data base of sites attaching some information on the particular tribe, values and customs. Discussion on planning processes. Consultation first before development. Survey costs should be part of development. 127

128 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS 2. What can we - Local Government, AAV, Environs Australia, etc do to ensure that Local Government helps in the conservation of Indigenous cultural heritage. Educate Local Government to resources out there related to Indigenous cultural heritage. Local Government can send people on cross cultural awareness camps at Camp Jungai. Local Government can set up meetings in their communities in their area. Appropriate interpretation of sites in the Local Government area. Run this particular workshop in the regional areas. Develop data base of key Indigenous contacts - need to regularly update database. AAV to coordinate. Promote the 1km grid maps which AAV is developing so that they are used. Encourage Local Government to conduct surveys using National Estate Grants, etc especially in known areas of cultural significance. Acknowledge that decisions on Indigenous issues must be made by Indigenous people. Consultation is required for all situations. Rec: Make decisions slowly - talk around a lot so that you do find the right source. Don t hurry/shop around. A) Contact the local Aboriginal community. B) Cultural Officer then Site Officer. Acceptance that all sites are important and the importance is based on local interpretations. Often don t have the information or history to make priority decisions. Build up relationships with local Aboriginal/Indigenous people. Get back in touch with the Aboriginality/Indigenous culture of today. Acknowledge the past - but do so to better understand where we are today. Try and get in touch with the invisibles - stories, songs, dances - involved in the richness of the culture. WORKSHOP C - BATALUK CULTURAL TRAIL (CASE STUDY) 1. How could you use some of the things you have heard about today in your work? Identify the potential for: Employment, Economic Development and Education Opportunities. Also identify the negative aspects for the project ie. Vandalism, Racism (only sometimes), Poor contribution from Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Organisations and local community politics. Rec: Focus on the locations that are already being used. i.e. Moogji Aboriginal Council - Orbost, Gippsland and East Gippsland Aboriginal Co-operative - Bairnsdale, Ramahyuck Aboriginal Corporation - Sale. Everyone involved in the Trail needs to be more focused. Advertising needs to be in place on the immediate locations. Utilise more support from Environs Australia. Utilise more expertise from outside the local Aboriginal Communities. Utilise groups such as Land-care and RMIT, Friends of the Wetlands, etc. 2. What can we - Local Government, AAV, Environs Australia, etc do to ensure that Local Government helps in the conservation of Indigenous cultural heritage? Bloody good consultation at a high level at all times towards Aboriginal people and non-aboriginal people. 128

129 WORKSHOP D - COMMUNICATION PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS 1. What can we - Local Government, AAV, Environs Australia, etc do to ensure that Local Government helps in the conservation of Indigenous cultural heritage? What are the needs locally? Indigenous community placement questions need to be combined with Local Government needs. Targeted areas higher Indigenous population. Rec: Need for more site officers in Victoria. More resources required to research local knowledge of sites because they are too limited. Rec: More Aboriginal Policy Officers - job brief to be developed with adaptations for local needs with an emphasis on youth, access to local services by Indigenouss. 3 Indigenous community isolated within Local Government. Numbers affect funding. Need to have shared information. Sharing between separate Local Government authorities. Policy positions are more than liaison. Naming titles of these positions are important so that they follow through with the appropriate policy/strategy and implementation. Input into all policy development - housing, aged and disability. Integration of local planning processes. Need for good liaison network, especially extending to neighbouring areas. Need for policy recommendations to become part of a Council s procedures. Rec: Need for documentation of Indigenous heritage data in planning schemes. eg. Historic Building Council. The (Integrated Local Area Planning) ILAP approach could help with appointing Aboriginal Policy Officers. General awareness will reduce as thinking is institutionalised. 2. How do you gauge a Council s readiness for appointing Aboriginal Policy Officers? Encourage local Indigenous interest Starting points for encouraging local Indigenous involvement - newspapers a good starting point, displays, local residents newsletter, local Indigenous organisations, etc. Need for organisations to take first the step to get Council s to show an interest. Perception of local history by Local Government is a barrier for Indigenous access and involvement. Long history of negative actions and impacts by local councils. Need to get these Aboriginal Policy Officer positions up quickly. 3 years to implement. Rec: Workshop needed to share effects/impacts of these newly created positions. Work through Indigenous and white bureaucratic points of view. Share policies and strategies that are in place. 3. Need for Indigenous Local Government Councillors. Mentoring programs involving existing Councillors. Rec: 10 Workshops are to be co-ordinated by the MAV in October and January on How to Get Elected. 129

130 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Local Government Indigeneous Representation Introduction The issues of inclusiveness and broad representation are paramount for democracy in the restructured system of Local Government in Victoria. The challenge, with currently no Aboriginal Councillors in Victoria, is to develop a strategy and to target the Council elections to be held in the years 1999, 2000 and Why should Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people be involved in Local Government? Indigenous people are part of the community too! Elected Local Government provides citizens with the chance to participate in community self-government, which is what Indigenous people have always worked towards at the grass-roots level. To ensure there is an improved delivery of programs and services to Indigenous communities. To influence what their local Council does, how it spends its money and what services and facilities Councils provide. To encourage young Indigenous people to be involved in the current issues affecting the community at the local level. To ensure more women and young people are elected to local Council for a broader representation of the community. To participate in the decision-making process on relevant issues affecting the community To provide role models for young Indigenous people in the community. NSW Aboriginal LG Network Conference MAV s Role and Actions The MAV has a major role in information sessions for Council candidates and training for Councillors. Commonwealth funding provided under the Local Government Development Program will assist in the development of a strategy including information dissemination and workshops. With the establishment in 1998 of the Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network the possibility of developing a mentoring program will also be explored. What actions have occurred to date: 1) A Civics and Citizenship - Local Government - Why Bother? Seminar in 1996 This seminar was hosted by the Victorian Integrated Local Area Planning Committee to promote active involvement of all community interests in shaping restructured Local Government through the reinstated elections in 1996 and Wurundjeri elder, Joy Murphy, performed the traditional welcome and was a panel member speaking on reconciliation and participation. Workshops focused on Aboriginal representation and representation of women, young people and people from multicultural Victoria. 130

131 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Cr. Syd Sparrow an Aboriginal Councillor from SA and Vince Buckskin, Aboriginal Policy Officer at the SA Local Government Association led the workshop. 2) MAV production of a kit From Citizen to Councillor for distribution to all candidates. 3) MAV hosting of eight Council election information sessions across the State with an Indigenous component conducted by the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer in Swan Hill, Gippsland and Melbourne. 4) Information session for prospective Aboriginal candidates in December 1996 hosted by the MAV. [Unfortunately, although several Aboriginal candidates stood none were successful.] 5) In December 1997 the MAV launched the video, Citizens Not Customers, promoting active, inclusive citizenship. It features Aboriginal participation via the NSW Local Government Network and NSW mentoring program. 6) In November 1997 the MAV Management Board launched the Victorian Local Government Women s s Charter which identifies Reconciliation as a key principle and recommended the following actions: Councils and peak bodies will ensure that Indigenous women are provided with training and mentoring opportunities to allow them to participate fully in Local Government. Councils will consider employment of an Aboriginal Policy Officer and recruitment of female Indigenous staff. Councils will establish Indigenous advisory committees and local reconciliation discussion groups with representation of both men and women. Future Directions Elections 1999, 2000 and 2001 The establishment of Council Advisory/Consultative Committees, the development of Agreements between Councils and Indigenous Communities, Council commitments to Reconciliation development of a participation list and mentoring program for female candidates/councillors together with the MAV Local Government Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network means election of Indigenous candidates should be a realistic target for the years 1999, 2000 and Proposed Council Actions Follow-up locally - see who might be interested to stand Access the MAV s information on elections. Screen the MAV video - Citizens Not Customers. Inform prospective candidates of training sessions. Liaise with the MAV s Aboriginal Policy Officer. V ictorian Local Government For: Councils - Councillors and officers Council candidates Junior Councils Community groups Non government organisations Schools Citizens Customers not Local Democracy and Active Citizenship A video and Facilitators Guide 3 131

132 3 PARTNERSHIPS KEY ACTIONS A Council Case Study - City of Port Phillip The City of Port Phillip has demonstrated through community development strategies in partnership with the Aboriginal community that better outcomes can result for Aboriginal people across the wide range of Council responsibilities. could continue to address the many sensitive issues which find their expression in the Cleve Gardens. The strategies proposed were not designed to achieve quick- The Beginnings In 1994, the former City of St. Kilda commissioned Aboriginal consultant, Julie Peers to undertake a Needs Study. The impetus for this action were complaints from sectors of the community about behaviour of the Aboriginal community in Cleve Gardens - a small open space with close proximity to a restaurant/tourist/entertainment precinct. The Cleve Gardens Koorie community consists of a fluid population, with a core group of approximately 40 people, all of whom have a long association with St. Kilda. Cleve Gardens is also known as a meeting place where Aboriginal people from all over Australia can be sure to make contact, and to hear about and pass on kinship news. The consultant worked with a Steering Committee comprising representatives from Council, Ngwala Willumbong Cooperative, MAV, Sacred Heart Mission and the Commonwealth Employment Services. The Key Findings were: The Koorie community in St. Kilda is marginalised and in extremely high need of basic services. Top priorities include access to housing, employment, health, recreation, welfare and family support services that are delivered in a culturally appropriate manner. service delivery and resource allocation levels. Need for greater cross-cultural awareness and practical commitment to reconciliation between the Koorie and non-koorie communities. The consultancy therefore, provided Council with a framework within which it fix solutions, but rather to focus on the achievement of long-term and sustainable change. These included: A planning process involving all relevant stakeholders in areas of health, welfare, justice, family services, housing, sport and recreation and employment and training. Employment of a Policy and Community Worker to undertake a coordinated An absence of coordination of statewide strategies at all levels including planning, Community Development Process.

133 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Implementation of a wide range of Cultural Awareness Programs. Establishment of a Koorie Police Liaison Unit and Community Justice Panels. To oversight and monitor implementation a City of Port Phillip and ATSIC-Koorie community Working Party was established for 12 months. This joint Working Party, jointly chaired by Council and ATSIC, established a small sub-group of Carol Mayell, Council s Community Services Planner, Karen Milward, MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer and Gary Hansen, Drug and Alcohol worker with Galliamble and Glen Howard, Annette Xibberas, Administrator, Ngwala Willumbong to monitor progress and report to member, Wurundjeri the Working Party. Whilst the development process was difficult at times, growing knowledge and understanding of differing attitudes, cultures and perceptions together with commitment from several key players produced tangible outcomes in the following areas:- Employment and Training Initiatives Employment by Council of an Aboriginal Policy Officer Establishment of an employment task group for the development of an Aboriginal employment strategy including traineeships with the possibility of developing units in relation to childcare, Drug and Alcohol Recovery, HACC Services, performing arts, cultural heritage, tourism and hospitality. Art, Culture and Heritage Initiatives Re-development of Cleve Gardens. (This development re-shaped the Gardens to look more Indigenous with replanting of Indigenous shrubs and trees, Indigenous designs on the concrete surrounding the gardens and the walkway through the gardens. Memorial marker to placed in a prominent area to recognise the Koorie parkies who have passed away. Information stand to be placed in the centre of the gardens. Koorie flag and flag pole to be erected in the Gardens. Art and craft market to be coordinated by Koorie artists and parkies to sell their arts and crafts). Permanent employment of the Koorie Arts Development Officer, fully funded by Council. (Refer Koorie Arts Development Officer Section) Heritage Walking Trail in the Port Phillip Bay region, highlighting Aboriginal sites of significance and maintenance of these sites with employment of local Indigenous people. Tourism Initiative with Ngwala Willumbong Aboriginal Cooperative to promote Koorie tourism throughout the Port Phillip region during the Grand Prix in March/April, Pavement Art drawings by Koorie artists in the local streets of City of Port Phillip, Koorie arts exhibition and writers night. Joint coordination between ATSIC Binjirru Regional Council, Tourism Victoria and the City of Port Phillip in the development of council s economic development strategy to include Koorie tourism and employment opportunities, initiatives and outcomes

134 3 PARTNERSHIPS KEY ACTIONS Program and Service Delivery Re-naming of streets in the Municipality to reflect local Indigenous culture and heritage. Koorie Needs Study - 6 months to determine health, youth, employment, housing and cultural needs of the Koorie community which supported the employment of the Aboriginal Policy Officer. This study developed three major recommendations to establish the City of Port Phillip Koorie Working Party, Employment of an Aboriginal Policy Officer and Community Development Officer and Koorie Cross Cultural Awareness Training sessions. Sponsorship of public and community housing places for Indigenous families/individuals to increase long term housing options in the area. Establishment of the Police Liaison Task Group and the Youth Task Group. Indigenous Participation and liaison with Council s contractors involved in delivery of programs and services to the community, ie. Koorie HACC and SAP workers with Councils HACC and SAP workers, etc. Training and Information Sessions Three Koorie Cross Cultural Awareness Training Sessions for Commissioners, CEO, Managers and staff of Council and local Government departments and agencies and for local members of the City of Port Phillip Retail Traders Association. Two Employment and Training Information Sessions for Managers of Service Departments of Council. These sessions highlighted Koorie needs, barriers, stereotypes and recommendations for improved employment and training opportunities for local Koories in the area. NAIDOC Week and Reconciliation Week Celebrations Art Exhibition coordinated by City of Port Phillip s Koorie Arts Unit for three months in the Art Galleries and Town Halls of St. Kilda, South Melbourne, Port Melbourne, Caulfield, City Centre, etc. Photographic Exhibition displayed throughout City of Port Phillip - St. Kilda Town Hall in Staff Offices, Council Chambers, corridors, foyers, etc. Elders Luncheon - included Indigenous and non-indigenous. Sport & Recreation Day under Councils youth program. Aboriginal Flag Raising Ceremony. Koorie Writers Night - St. Kilda Town Hall Launch of Cleve Gardens redevelopment

135 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Reconciliation Heightened awareness, understanding and commitment by Council to Reconciliation has developed as evidenced by: A Council Statement of Commitment to Indigenous Australians A Civic Protocol for Council public functions/events with a statement acknowledging the custodians of the land Wurundjeri and Bunurong representatives invited to provide a welcome to their land at public events A Council Statement of Reconciliation with Indigenous Australians A call on the Prime Minister to make a formal apology on behalf of the nation Councillor and officer attendance s at the Reconciliation Convention Councillor and officer attendance s at the ALGA National Assemblies Active core participation in the Port Phillip Citizen s for Reconciliation Group Consideration and identification of pre and post European Aboriginal sites in Council s Planning Scheme Koorie housing issues and strategies included in Council s Housing Strategy document Koorie cultural activities included in all festivals and events City of Port Phillip: A Commitment of Reconciliation with Indigenous Australians The City of Port Phillip acknowledges that Indigenous Australians were the first people of this land and have survived European settlement for more than two centuries. The arrival of Europeans brought massive changes to the land and its Indigenous people. For its part, the City of Port Phillip acknowledges and grieves for the loss by the Indigenous people of their land, their children, their health and their lives. We call on the Prime Minister to make a formal apology on behalf of this nation to Aboriginal people, for the policy of assimilation and the wrong of removing Aboriginal children from their families. We acknowledge the right of Indigenous Australians to live according to their own values special places. The Council recognises the valuable contribution to Port Phillip made by Indigenous people and looks forward to a future of mutual respect and harmony. We call on our fellow Australians across this land to build a movement for reconciliation of sufficient breadth and power to guarantee that Australia can truly celebrate the centenary of its nationhood in 2001 confident that it has established a sound and customs, subject to law, and we commit ourselves to respect Aboriginal sacred sites and foundation for reconciliation. Ray Thomas, Indigeneous designer of the memorial marker The Koorie community of Cleve Gardens and former Mayor, Cr Christine Hagg

136 3 PARTNERSHIPS KEY ACTIONS Community Planning Formal consultation in May 1997, held with the Ngwala Willumbong Aboriginal Cooperative, provided the following input to Council s future Corporate and Community plans: Koorie history, both pre and post European occupation needs to be included in the preamble to Corporate and Community Plan and should be part of any written or oral presentation of Port Phillip demographic profiles. It needs to be noted that the ABS Census data is not necessarily representative of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population, eg. Galliamble and Winja Ulupna accommodate approximately 400 people annually. There needs to be protocols developed to improve access to Council service delivery areas. This requires cross-cultural awareness by the organisation that recognises the differences between Indigenous and non- Indigenous people in the use of mainstream services. Council staff need to outreach more and build up trust with Indigenous services and their clients, eg. the library service could visit Galliamble on a regular basis to encourage library usage and determine the type of material that would be of interest to residents. Garry Hansen also made the point that there isn t a Koorie representative on the Library Advisory Committee. Services of particular interest that require further exploration are: 1. Family Support services 2. Children s Resource Development Worker 3. Emergency Relief services 4. Aged & Disability services, eg. meals and home care services 5. Youth services - access to youth housing is a major issue for the Koorie community. (Jason participates in the PPYouth Services Network). 6. Recreation opportunities for adults relationships with Indigenous services and clients. Further proactive projects that develop the cultural and heritage profile of Indigenous people are required. Issues relating to the satisfactory completion of 66 Grey Street, (the Richard Ambrose Hostel) need to be resolved before Ngwala Willumbong Cooperative the rhetoric. Support from Council was requested in raising the issue of South Melbourne between the St. Kilda Police and Ngwala Willumbong Cooperative. It was indicated that Council could write a support letter to accompany a letter from Ngwala Willumbong Cooperative to the Divisional Headquarters/Commissioner? NAIDOC Flag raising ceremony Entertainment at Cleve Gardens It was stressed that Council staff need to outreach as individuals to build effective feels that is can move on in its relationship with Council. Actions need to match Police encroaching on St. Kilda territory and undermining the protocols developed

137 Future Actions PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS Carol Mayell, Council s Community Services Coordinator suggests that the following needs to continue so as Indigenous issues are not just add on or for special occasions. More regular staff and Councillor cross cultural awareness training Information being included in new staff orientation kits Incorporating statements of consideration of Indigenous issues in all planning, corporate and service delivery policies and protocols Printing items of interest about Indigenous issues in Council newsletters, particularly those that challenge stereotype views and myths about the Indigenous community Encouraging Indigenous activities in Council facilities, eg functions, meetings, elders days, etc. Carol Mayell proposes the following checklist to help other Councils get started. Acknowledge that there are sure to be Indigenous residents in all local government communities in Victoria, whether they are visible or not, therefore they are part of the community that a particular Council is elected to represent and service. Once that acknowledgment is made contact the MAV Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Project Officer to assist you in getting started, but don t expect that person to do the work for you, he/she is an invaluable resource to point you in the right direction, but the journey is yours. Familiarise yourself with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander socio-demographic profile of the area. Information gathered should not just be reliant on ABS Census data. Aboriginal Affairs Victoria and ATSIC may be able to assist you with more detail. Identify any protected sites in your area. AAV can provide this information and the relevant legislation. Make sure that Council planning and infrastructure processes protect the site, and the prescribed protocols for obtaining permission for any potential interference to the site are observed. Find out about the pre and post European history of the area. A good starting point is the Koorie Heritage Trust s information services. Start using this information in newsletters, community profiles, etc. List Koorie organisations in your community resource guides, etc. Publicly acknowledge NAIDOC Week and National Reconciliation Week by flying the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags and maybe running some activities/events, with some advice from the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer. Contact other Councils who have programs in place or are thinking about it and share information, contacts and support. Observing sound consultation processes and protocols that are acceptable to the Indigenous community and supported by the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer is critical. You may follow all of the above suggestions in good faith, but still manage to step on toes. This is sometimes unavoidable but don t be deterred! If you have earned the respect and trust of members of the Indigenous community your commitment will carry you through, as long as you keep the communication channels open and honest, and are not afraid to make some mistakes. The potential benefits for your community are many. Carol Mayell at the memorial marker, Cleve Gardens 3 137

138 3 PARTNERSHIPS KEY ACTIONS Cleve Gardens Task Group Outcomes Membership: Wurundjeri Tribal Land and Compensation Cultural Heritage Council, Ngwala Willumbong Cooperative, Police, Council, AAV and informally, the people of Cleve Gardens. The task group has worked through some very difficult issues over the previous redevelopment plan supported by all key players. A 1996/97 budget commitment from Council for the redevelopment of Cleve Gardens. Council and Koorie people who meet in Cleve Gardens for the landscape design concept of Cleve Gardens. The design incorporates a cultural and memorial marker; space and commitment for relevant Council permits for market stalls; seating; Aboriginal art work throughout the Gardens and Indigenous plants. the design is currently awaiting a planning permit from Council. The design of a cultural marker for Cleve Gardens will be developed with the guidance of an Aboriginal artist. A commitment to the employment of Koorie workers to assist in landscaping and to undertake art works. The establishment of a relationship with the Wurundjeri Tribal Council that has cultural benefits for the Port Phillip community. Future of Cleve Gardens Task Group This task group will continue to meet as required until the completion of the redevelopment of Cleve Gardens. Introduction such. It has great spiritual feeling for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Some of the things we would like to see are: A community gathering place that will encourage and enable Indigenous people in their business enterprises. A place for Aboriginal agencies and organisations to disseminate information about local activities and services that are available to the community. Victoria has survived - and is now ready to assert itself. A place that can provide an opportunity for Aboriginal culture and community to be displayed in a positive and proud way. To be inclusive of the local business community, so that it is supportive and in partnership in this development. This can be seen as most positive. It can also contribute to enhancing the area as a vibrant place for business. ATSIC and City of Port Phillip - Koorie Working Party - November 1996 several months but has continued its commitment to the process. This has resulted in An endorsement by all members of the task group, in particular, the Wurundjeri Tribal Cleve Gardens is a registered site of Aboriginal significance and should be utilised as A place which gives indigenous people the opportunity to display their traditional arts and crafts, which also then reinforces to the community that the Aboriginal culture in Joy Murphy, Wurundjeri Elder at the memorial marker, Cleve Gardens.

139 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS NEWS RELEASE 17 October, 1997 WOMINJEKA! WELCOME! Launch of Cleve Gardens Redevelopment: am, Wednesday, 22 October, Cnr Beaconsfield Pde & Fitzroy St, St. Kilda The Mayor of the City of Port Phillip, Cr Christine Haag, and representatives from the Aboriginal and Torrse Strait Islander Commission, will be officially opening the newly redeveloped Cleve Gardens in St. Kilda on Wednesday, 22 October, between 10.00am and 11.30am. This redevelopment is a formal recognition of the fact that Cleve Gardens has been a meeting place for Aboriginal people, both traditional and visitors, for generations. A central feature of the redevelopment is the installation of ceramic cultural marker bearing Wurundjeri and Bunurong symbols. the marker has been created by Koorie artist, Ray Thomas. The event will begin with the Wurundjeri and Bunurong welcome and smoking ceremony, followed by words from Lois Peeler, Chairperson of the Binjirru Regional Council, Cr Haag and other members of the audience. There will also be a presentation of the Robbie Hunter Memorial Plaque to Jeff and Lois Hunter. Robbie Hunter, brother of the singer Ruby Hunter, was a leader of the Cleve Gardens Koorie community until his death last year. The Cleve Gardens site has undergone extensive works, including landscaping, new seating and many features displaying Koorie cultural identity. The site is also listed as a `significant place under the Commonwealth Heritage Protection Act 1984 and on the Aboriginal historic Places Register. Cr Haag said today, The Cleve Gardens redevelopment represents a further stage in the continuing process of reconciliation between Aboriginal people and other Australians in Port Phillip. Enquiries: Verne Krastins, Media Liaison Officer Tel: Fax: Mobile:

140 3 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS The Future Summary In many communities the foundations are now being laid for new positive relationships between Councils and their local Indigenous people. This Resource Guide in providing basic information and guidance from the experiences of the MAV s Aboriginal Policy Officer, Councils and their communities equips all 78 Local Governments in Victoria, individually and collectively to demonstrate leadership in ensuring improved outcomes for Indigenous people. The challenges for the next few years will be to cement good practice in the day to day operations of Councils, and to monitor achievements for Indigenous people at the local level so as to ensure real outcomes. As emphasised by this Guide it is essential to attaining real results that basic steps are followed, e.g. the importance of cross cultural training for non Indigenous people and establishment of joint working parties. Councils are requested to utilise the Guide as the key initial source of information in developing local action strategies. This will allow the MAV Aboriginal Policy Officer to focus on the priorities outlined in Part One. Some Councils in developing statements of commitment and strategies are already considering how to consolidate actions within Council s day to day operations as evidenced by the Port Phillip case study. Such progressive action is also occurring in other States. E.g. Ipswich City Council, in Queensland, in developing an Accord with the Indigenous population is spelling out the links with Council s planning across its social, economic, cultural and environmental responsibilities. In this way the Accord will be reflected as an integral part of the Council s Corporate Plan and a framework for linked action by Council across its diverse responsibilities. Sharon Parsons, (pictured below) Aboriginal Community Development Officer with Ipswich Council lists the following aims and objectives of an Accord. To empower the Indigenous Australian community of Ipswich. To ensure that the Ipswich City Council is aware of and is meeting the needs of the community. To assist the Indigenous Australian community of Ipswich to successfully put in place a formal document which will be referred to and actioned by all appropriate departments of Council. To provide the opportunity for Community and Cultural Development to occur by the Indigenous Australian community for the Indigenous Australian community. To develop strategies to increase and enhance the process of reconciliation within the City of Ipswich. Sharon Parsons 140

141 PARTNERSHIPS - KEY ACTIONS To promote and provide access and equity to the Indigenous Australian citizens of Ipswich. To maintain ongoing dialogue with the community and Ipswich City Council in an honest and open manner. To improve community relations. To be successful at being a model for other local authorities. Agreements Accords/Agreements (such as those developed in Broome and Redland, 81) will in the future not only underpin Council s actions, they will provide the basis for accountability in assessing successful outcomes for Indigenous people. 3 To assist this development the ALGA in cooperation with ATSIC and the National Native Title Tribunal has produced a practice guide to developing, implementing and reviewing agreements a Working Out Agreements with Indigenous Australians is available to all Councils and Indigenous communities. Councils are urged to take the initiative to meet with their local Indigenous people so if they have not already done so, that together positive approaches can be developed and agreements signed. This Resource Guide provides information and tools it is the responsibility of Councils to take action. Progress in all Victorian communities will be monitored through the MAV Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Project to promote Good Practice and to produce real outcomes. The MAV as the peak body of Victoria s 78 Councils will continue to play a role in documenting and disseminating the experiences and lessons from Councils in Victoria and other States/Territories, so that communities can learn from each other and adapt successes to their own particular circumstances. It is intended that the MAV Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network will be an important tool in promoting and achieving changes. On-line updates to this Resource Guide will mean that all Councils and Communities can quickly access the latest information, as well as exchange their experiences. The MAV invites all the Councils and Indigenous organisations to be active contributors in this information clearing house so that successes in Local Government - Indigenous relationships are shared and celebrated and continue to progress well into the 21st Century. 141

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