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The Office for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs (OA&TSIA)

would like to welcome you to the 4th edition for 2017 of the Newsletter.

OA&TSIA would like to acknowledge the organisations that paid tribute to

the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day and

International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples during August.

The newsletter will focus on the 2017 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

Elected Body (ATSIEB) elections which concluded in July. On behalf of the team at OA&TSIA,

congratulations the successful candidates. Congratulations to the Katrina Fanning and Jo Chivers on

their election to Chair and Co-Chair respectively. We look forward to working with and supporting

ATSIEB over the next three years. This election saw a record number of candidates with 25 people

seeking election for the seven available positions. We also saw an increased number of voters which

demonstrates the enhanced influence ATSIEB has had on community matters and the willingness of

the community to participate. Congratulations also go to the OA&TSIA and Elections ACT staff on the

superb effort to make the elections possible.

The ACT Government Flag Raising Ceremony was held on the Monday of NAIDOC week and despite the conditions, over 150 people attended. Thank you to the flag raisers, Mrs. Alex Sloan, Mrs. Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA, Mr. Bradley Bell and Ms Samantha Faulkner. Well done to all the NAIDOC Week Award Winners that was announced at the NAIDOC Week Ball. OA&TSIA has recently gone through some staff changes with Gill Eshman taking up a secondment to the Ministers Office and Bryanne Beltrami moving to a position in the Federal Government. We would like to congratulate both and wish them well on their journey. We welcome Kerry Baker to the office to help fill some of the gaps whilst we complete a number of recruitment processes. And finally the Community Services Directorate has recently reviewed their accommodation requirements and we have relocated from Level 8 to Level 3, 11 Moore Street, Canberra City 2601. We are in the same building but closer to the ground which makes life far more pleasant for staff when we have fire drills or need to exit the building in a hurry.

Regards Robyn Forester Director Office for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs

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I’m sure most of you are as glad as I am that Spring is finally here – and not just

for the (hopefully) warmer weather. Spring is a fantastic time of year in Canberra

with the golden wattle now blooming and lots of great events coming up. I hope

you and your families have the chance to enjoy some time together. Thank you

for your hard work over the past few months.

ATSIEB Elections

On behalf of the ACT Government, I congratulate the members of the Fourth Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander Elected Body:

Caroline Hughes

Katrina Fanning

Jo Chivers

Ross Fowler

Maurice Walker

Fred Monaghan

Jacob Keed

Further congratulations to Katrina Fanning and Jo Chivers who were elected Chair and Deputy Chair

respectively by their fellow Elected Body members.

The Government looks forward to working with the new Elected Body as we continue to implement

the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Agreement 2015-2018, with its focus on stronger

families and connected communities.

NAIDOC Week

I had the pleasure of attending many fantastic events during this year’s NAIDOC Week, including the Flag Raising Ceremony, the NAIDOC Ball and NAIDOC by the Lake. The 2017 NAIDOC Week theme – Our Languages Matter – celebrated the unique and essential role

that languages play in cultural identity, linking people to country, history, spirituality and rites

through story and song. During the week I was reminded of how rich our First Peoples’ cultures are

and what a privilege it is to hold this portfolio.

Reconciliation Day holiday

In the recent Assembly sitting period, I introduced legislation to amend the Holidays Act to establish a Reconciliation Day public holiday. The first Reconciliation Day holiday will be on 28 May 2018. The Reconciliation Day public holiday will be an opportunity for the Canberra community to come together in the spirit of reconciliation to recognise and celebrate the important place of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history in our city and nation. Introducing legislation to establish the Reconciliation Day public holiday delivers on a commitment made in the last term of Government. I acknowledge Dr Chris Bourke, who championed the idea of a public holiday to promote reconciliation and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and achievements.

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ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body election results announced

The names of the seven members to be declared elected to the ACT’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body were announced on Wednesday 19 July 2017, by the Acting ACT Electoral Commissioner, Mr Ro Spence.

“Counting for the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body election took place today, using the Hare-Clark proportional representation system. A record total of 435 votes were admitted to the count,” Mr Spence said.

Twenty five candidates contested the election. Voting for the election took place during the week starting Saturday 1 July and concluded on Saturday 8 July 2017. Any Aboriginal person or Torres Strait Islander aged 18 or over, living in the ACT, was eligible to vote in the election.

The successful candidates in the order in which they were elected are:

Caroline Hughes Katrina Fanning Jo Chivers Ross Fowler Maurice Walker Fred Monaghan Jacob Keed

On behalf of the team at OA&TSIA, congratulations to all seven candidates that were successful in being elected and a huge thank you to the candidates that missed out. See media release here This election had the largest number ever of candidates to nominate (25) and with an increased number of voters demonstrate the influence ATSIEB has had on community matters and the willingness of the community to participate. Katrina Fanning has been named the new Chair with Jo Chivers voted back into the position of deputy Chair. See media release here

Congratulations also go to the OA&TSIA and Elections ACT staff on the superb effort to make the elections possible. Below is a brief Bio of the new members.

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I am a proud Ngunnawal woman that is known for bringing people together from many nations and all walks of life to work in harmony and to excel. Under my management, I have continuously grown the capacity of Yurauna Centre to meet the needs of individuals and community. I am most proud of the fact that Yurauna is highly successful - due to ensuring our Aboriginal cultural is at the foremost of all that we do. I believe in leading the way by example - Cultural Safety is more than words or artwork! It’s personally practicing what I demand of others. Which means accountability for myself and for governments. I am known as someone that has proven leadership skills, excellent financial management skills with an ability to look beyond what I'm told. I have supported countless individuals in gaining qualifications and succeeding in their employment goals. I manage with high integrity - honesty with high cultural and moral values. Those that know me recognize that I have an open door policy and those individuals. Our people are more than just a statistic – I know that policy cannot be a one size fits all! Under my leadership ACT has the best outcomes nationally in the training sector for First Nations peoples. I am passionate about what I do because I have seen the power that education has. I know that education is the key that unlocks all dreams and opens opportunities. Those that have needed help know that I ensure I've gone beyond to support. In other words I deliver outcomes for my people by ensuring I listen, investigate and then take action. I am at a point in my life that it is time to help others achieve the successes I have. My top five priorities, but not limited to: 1. Cultural Heritage

2. Community Development

3. Education

4. Health

5. Employment As a leader and professional educator I have developed, implemented, and facilitated educational programs to meet the needs of community. I hope that you the individual see the value that I can add to our Elected Body! My promise is to work with you for all our community.

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Katrina is a Wiradjuri woman from Junee, NSW and has lived in the

ACT for the majority of the past 26 years. During this time she has

been an active community member involved in sports, community

organisations and through her work.

Currently Katrina is the Director of Coolamon Advisors an Indigenous

consulting firm based in Canberra. Previously she has held Senior

Executive roles in Government including with Centrelink, Aboriginal

Hostels and the Department of Education, Employment and

Workplace Relations. Her career started as a trainee in the ACT Government in 1995 having worked

in the Magistrates Court, Sport and Recreation and Chief Ministers Departments.

Following her own successful rugby league career she has maintained involvement in the sport at a

National level as member of the NRL Indigenous Council and manager of the Indigenous Women's All

Stars team.

Katrina believes that the ACT should be nation leading in outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander people and that the best chance at this rests in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander led

solutions. Her community knowledge and networks, coupled with Government experience have her

well placed to assist the Elected Body in achieving in this regard.

In addition Katrina is a Board member of Marymead, the Womens Legal Centre and is a member of

the Marist Indigenous parents group. Previously she has also held positions on the ACT NAIDOC

Committee, assisted in the Indigenous Showcase at the Multicultural Festival, been the ACT

representative at the National Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee and President of both

Canberra and Australian Womens Rugby League Associations.

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Jo is a Palawa woman from Tasmania who moved to Canberra in 1993 to take up a graduate position with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC). She has been a Commonwealth Public Servant for the past 24 years and currently works in higher education policy. Jo is a single mum of two boys aged 14 and 20 and is passionate about health, education, justice, and youth issues that impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the ACT.

Achievements and contributions

3 separate nominations for the 2017 Australian of the Year Awards

Elected in March 2016 (term concludes July 2018) as the ACT Labor Party’s first Indigenous President

Deputy Chairperson of the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body (ATSIEB)

Chairperson, Canberra and District NAIDOC Aboriginal Corporation

ACT NAIDOC Committee member for around 20 years

Nominee, 2017 ACT NAIDOC Person of the Year Award

Nominee, 2017 ACT NAIDOC Elder of the Year Award

Community member on Basketball ACT’s Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group

Nominee, 2016 National NAIDOC Person of the Year Award

Nominee, 2016 ACT NAIDOC Person of the Year Award

Nominee, 2016 ACT Citizen of the Year Award

Finalist in the 2016 ACT Woman of the Year Awards

Finalist in the 2015 ACT Woman of the Year Awards

2015 – Australian Government Department of Education and Training, Secretary’s Excellence Awards 2014 – individual winner in the capability through diversity category

Former member, ACT Ministerial Advisory Council for Aging

Member, Governance Group, Prevention of Violence against Women and Children Strategy

Co-chair, ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Justice Partnership Advisory Group

Moderator, ACT Indigenous Email Network

2011 ACT NAIDOC Person of the Year

Community member on the ACT Department of Health’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working Group that developed the Department’s Inaugural RAP 2011-12 and the 2012-2015 RAP

Director on the Board for the Indigenous Reading Project

Founding member of the Winnunga Warriors Basketball Club

Mentor to Indigenous and non-Indigenous staff in the Australian Public Service

Role model for other survivors of domestic violence

Jo is standing as a candidate in the upcoming election for the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body as she wants to use her skills, experience, and expertise to advocate for what the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community wants and more importantly needs. As the current ATSIEB member with portfolio responsibility for Justice and Community Safety, Jo is hoping to be re-elected so she can continue to influence the work the ACT Government is undertaking in this area.

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Originally from Woorabinda, Queensland, I’ve been living on Ngunnawal Country for nearly 30 years.

I am currently working with the ACT Government, Housing ACT as a Senior Indigenous Policy Liaison

Officer.

This is, proudly, my third term on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander Elected Body and very honoured to be representing our

Community to the ACT Government and their Directorates.

I would like to thank the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

Community for their support and confidence in me to represent

their interests to Government. There are a lot of things that need to

change and it’s been a hard slog trying to change peoples attitude

towards letting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people manage

their own affairs.

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Ross Fowler is originally from the Bidigal Dharawal people of NSW with extended family connections

to the Dhungutti and Gamilaroy peoples also in NSW.

Ross has lived in the ACT for over two decades, and

has been an active community member in this time.

Ross works for the Justice and Community Safety

Directorate as their Senior Adviser Social Inclusion.

Ross combines an employment history in government

sectors at all levels with experience in the community

sector, Ross has also represented his people on boards

and committees and also advocate for the rights of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and

Intersex (LGBTI) people.

Ross has a passionate commitment to reducing the over representation of his people within the

criminal justice system, ensuring young people have access to the education system and robust

employment as well as protecting the intellectual cultural rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander artists.

Ross has also served as the Chair and Deputy Chair and is a current Board of Director for the Gugan

Gulwan Youth Aboriginal Corporation. Ross also served as the 3rd Term Chairperson for the ACT

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body.

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I was born in Griffith in 1953 that makes me 64 years of age. My family lived in a dirt floor humpy. l lived with four brothers and five sisters with my mother and father. When l turned eight or nine years of age, we moved into a new Government three bedroom home there was twelve of us just a bit overcrowded. I attended school in Griffith until l was 15 years of age. l left the educational system at a very young age had a few issues with the youth Justice system later as an adult. I did a lot of seasonal work around Victoria and New South Wales worked in numerous jobs in Sydney and lived in Sydney for five years. I moved to the Yass and ACT regions in the mid 70' firstly living in the Yass then moving to Queanbeyan in 1980. First job working as a trades assistance at the Weston Creek Police Complete then employed with ACT Forestry Commission later working at the Boomanulla Oval. I was then employed with Parks & Gardens as a machine operator which was for fourteen years, injuring my back being of work l was given the opportunity to be employed as a Aboriginal Youth Worker with the ACT Government. I was placed within a organization called Street Link being the only Indigenous Youth worker l was working mainly with Indigenous youths around the ACT. I was later employed as a Truancy Officer at Melrose High which really wasn’t my idea of working with my people, l then applied for a job with Gugan Gulwan. Gugan Gulwan was located at the Boomanulla Oval at the time we later moved to Red Hill location within a vacant Pre - School later moving to Erindale. During this time and earlier, l was involved in numerous advisory groups and committees working with the ACT Government, one being the Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee, also AJAC which was a national group, l was the ACT Representative. We were involved in establishing the Aboriginal Justice Centre putting in the Aboriginal Liaisons Officers position in the Belconnen Remand now being the Alexander Maconochie centre. I am also the Co - Chair of the Ngunnawal Elders Council. Being involved in the ACT Indigenous Circle Sentencing project, visiting different regions, gathering information to establish our own Circle for our Elders to question and support our young offenders. The AFP Aboriginal Liaison Officer and also having early discussions regarding the ACT Indigenous Rehab centre this was happening in 2000. I was the Indigenous Representative on the ACT New Prison Panel, the argument in favour of establishing a new ACT Prison: To allow more control over rehabilitation and restoration The need to replace Belconnen Remand Centre due to poor design, high operational costs and limited capacity To provide opportunities for families to visit without substantial expenses To provide for convenience for legal representatives to gain access to their clients To create cost benefits including economic flow - on benefits for the ACT My involvement with establishing the Youth Narrabundah House Becoming a member of the ACT / NSW Aboriginal Legal Services Over the years, my involvement in the Prison and Youth Justice Systems has been ongoing being now a part of the 2017 Elected Body. l am hoping to continue to work with the ACT Government to get better and to establish a safe environment for our community and our people within the ACT.

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I am Jacob Neville Pierce Keed, proud Wiradjuri Tubbah Gah and Kamilaroi man. I was born in Woden Hospital on the 12th November 1991. I am 25 years old. I have lived in Canberra most of my life and call Canberra home. I have a varied range of passions that drive me to what I do every day. They are:

Family and friends

Healthy work and personal life

Social Inclusion

Ensuring relationships between all and myself are respectful and cared for

The Reconciliation movement

Historical books

Music

Sport I work in ACT Government at Transport Canberra and City Services. While working in Government for the past 2 years I have worked at the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Bus service and now working in Procurement learning different aspects and government processes.

During my time in the Public Service I have learnt how Government operates and still growing my knowledge day by day. I have learnt how I can really help care for my community and that is to learn how Government operates, and at the same time build the understanding between community and the ACT Government to ensure everybody is heard and understood.

Focus: My main focus is ensuring opportunities, respect and relationships are created and maintained between all Australian, Aboriginal, and Torres Strait Islander people. I will do this action by negotiating to all stakeholders within community and ACT Government to carry out what needs to be done for the better future of our community here in the ACT and surrounding regions.

Hopefully one day I can do more for this country but first I want this community to achieve obtaining

Opportunities, regarding to employment, training, culture and cultural respect;

Relationships, regarding to community, government and personal;

Respect, regarding cultural respect and understanding between all Australian, Aboriginal, and Torres Strait Islander people.

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During Reconciliation Week the ACT Government launched the new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Portal. The Portal provides a platform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Canberrans to access information on ACT Government services, initiatives, and events. This initiative reflects feedback from the community that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people would benefit from a central platform to better connect with the ACT Government. The Portal is structured around the seven key focus areas of the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Agreement 2015-18: Cultural identity; Healthy minds, healthy bodies; Feeling safe; Connecting the community; Employment and economic independence; Education; and Leadership. The Portal can be found at https://www.strongfamilies.act.gov.au/

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Community organisations will be invited to apply for non recurrent project funding of up to $10,000 as part of the 2017-2018 Participation (Veterans and Seniors) Grants Program. Applications will be sought for innovative projects that promote veterans and seniors as valued members of the ACT community. The primary aim of the grants is to support both older Canberrans and veterans to maintain their wellbeing, promote social connectedness and to enhance the ACT community through the provision of innovative projects and activities. Priority areas for funding are:

Respect and inclusion of seniors;

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander veterans and seniors;

Elder Abuse awareness; and

Social Inclusion of veterans Grant applications will open 24th August and close 5 October 2017. More information: Call the Office for Veterans and Seniors on 6207 8830 or go to: http://www.communityservices.act.gov.au/wac/veterans-and-seniors/grants/participation-

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ACT Health conducted the 2017 NAIDOC and Reconciliation Awards ceremony on 13 July 2017 with

Meegan Fitzharris, Minister for Health and Wellbeing presenting the awards to ACT Health staff and

health partners in the ACT community who have shown outstanding work and commitment to

Reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous people.

The ACT Health Reconciliation Recognition Award recognises commitment to Reconciliation and

improving health care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The Employee Award was presented to Debbie Morgan at the Canberra Hospital Sexual Health

Centre for her work educating and supporting young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in

the ACT on matters of sexual health and blood borne viruses.

The Community Award was presented to Gaye Doolan at Indigenous Health and Student

Engagement at the Australian National University Medical School. Gaye developed a program

encouraging Indigenous secondary students to study health-related careers at ANU, and played a

key role in developing the Indigenous Health Stream at the ANU Medical School.

The ACT Health NAIDOC Award recognises outstanding effort by Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander staff.

The Outstanding Individual Contribution Award was presented to Steven Keed for his work in the

City Mental Health Team, ACT Health. Steven champions the importance of working with the

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and promotes more timely, accessible and

responsive services for marginalised people with mental illness and diverse and complex needs.

The Outstanding Team Contribution Award was presented to Terry Sutherland and Jason Hall, the

Aboriginal Liaison Officers in Mental Health, Justice Health, Alcohol and Drug Services. Terry and

Jason regularly demonstrate leadership and commitment to improving outcomes for Aboriginal and

Torres Strait Islander people, including education for non-Indigenous staff.

Congratulations to each of the winners at this year's

awards and for your ongoing commitment to

Reconciliation within the Canberra community.

Left to right: Reconciliation Recognition Employee Award

Debbie Morgan, Reconciliation Recognition Community

Award Gaye Doolan, Reconciliation Recognition

Outstanding Individual Award Steven Keed, Meeghan

Fitzharris Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Reconciliation

Recognition Outstanding Team Award Jason Hall and Terry

Sutherland (not pictured), and Dr Danielle Dries, guest

speaker and a former Dr Peter Sharp Scholarship recipient-

now employed as a Doctor (JMO) at Canberra Hospital.

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Members of the ACT Government were on hand when the ANU Medical School awarded its 2017 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholarships at a ceremony held at University House on Friday 18 August 2017. ANU Medical School Dean Professor Imogen Mitchell congratulated Harrison Slockee, Stephanie Pollard and Cree De Clouett on their scholarships. "The ANU Medical School has a strong commitment to increasing the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who study medicine," said Professor Mitchell. "It is great to be able to help and support some of our talented students at the start of their medical studies at ANU." ACT Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith, spoke to the students at a ceremony at University House, while ACT Minister for Health Meegan Fitzharris presented the Peter Sharp Scholarship. Chair of the John James Foundation, Professor Paul Smith, presented the John James Foundation Award. The Peter Sharp Scholarship was awarded to Harrison Slockee, a descendant of the Bundjalung people of Northern New South Wales. The John James Foundation Award recipient is Stephanie Pollard, a Wailwan woman. The National Indigenous Medicine Scholarship was awarded to Cree De Clouett, a descent of the Wadi Wadi people.The first Aboriginal medical student graduated in 2015. Since that time a further two Indigenous medical students have graduated from the program with eight currently enrolled across the four years. http://medicalschool.anu.edu.au/news-events/news/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-medical-scholarships-awarded-students

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The ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Participation Register is to assist the ACT Government

agencies match Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Canberrans who have relevant skills and

expertise for consideration for appointment to ACT board and committee when vacancies arise.

Nomination Form [PDF 191KB] [Word 103KB]

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The ACT, along with Victoria, are the only two states or territories in Australia to have enacted Human Rights legislation. The ACT Human Rights Act 2004 is important because it requires public authorities to act consistently with human rights. Section 40B (1) states that:

‘It is unlawful for a public authority – (a) to act in a way that is incompatible with a human right; or (b) in making a decision, to fail to give proper consideration to a relevant human right.

In this way, the intent of the Human Rights Act is to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of all people in the ACT. The Act recognises that while human rights belong to everyone they have special significance for our people. On 26 February 2016 new cultural rights were added to the Human Rights Act 2004. Section 27 (2) provides that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples hold distinct cultural rights and must not be denied the right to:

maintain, control, protect and develop our cultural heritage and distinctive spiritual practices, observances, beliefs and teachings; languages and knowledge; and kinship ties; and

to have our material and economic relationships with the land and waters and other resources with which we have a connection under traditional laws and customs recognised and valued.

To make these rights meaningful and effective we must be empowered to use and advocate for them. It is only in using the Human rights Act that we give life to it. The ACT Human Rights Commission Section 27 (2) Respecting Culture project aims to increase awareness, understanding and use of the Human Rights Act as a practical tool to engage with public authorities and to hold them to account. It also aims to assist public authorities to comply with their obligations under the Act by operating compatibly with our cultural rights under Section 27 (2) If you would like to meet about the project or the ACT Human Rights Commission, our contact details are 62052222 or nat.brown@act.gov.au or gabrielle.mckinnon@act.gov.au

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On 13 September 2017 the world will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the UN adopting the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). The Declaration embodies global consensus on Indigenous peoples’ rights and creates a universal framework of minimum standards for survival, dignity and well-being. It was tremendous achievement by Indigenous peoples to bring so many different groups to consensus and get national governments to sign on to the UNDRIP. Australia signed the Declaration in 2009. Today articles 25 and 31 of UNDRIP are reflected in the ACT Human Rights Act section 27(2) which recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ distinct cultural rights and their right to maintain, control and protect them. Only the ACT and Victorian governments acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural rights in law, and the ACT is the only jurisdiction that expressly uses the words from the UNDRIP. To mark the anniversary of UNDRIP the ACT Human Rights Commission and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body (ATSIEB) bring people together to watch films relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander human rights, such as Putuparri and the Rainmakers and Charlie’s Country in past years. This year they’ll co-host a screening of the award-winning film Zach’s Ceremony at an event at Old Parliament House on 13 September from 5.30-7.30pm. Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner June Oscar will attend and speak the audience. It’ll also a chance to hear from newly elected ATSIEB Chair Katrina Fanning. And, Sharron Williams, chair of SNAICC, the national voice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children will speak before the screening. If you’d like to know more about the UNDRIP 10th anniversary event please contact Deb Nesbitt at the ACT Human Rights Commission [deborah.nesbitt@act.gov.au]

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Seeking an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander

person with disability for the group

The ACT Disability Reference Group (the Reference Group) is seeking members to provide

information and advice to the ACT Government on issues affecting people with disabilities in the

ACT, which in turn will inform relevant policy development. We are specifically seeking a person

from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background with a disability or who has experience

caring for a person with disability.

We are looking for people with relevant knowledge and experience, including people with a

disability, carers of a person with a disability, and/or people with experience of the disability service

system.

The ACT Disability Reference Group is comprised of people who work together in the best interests

of people with disability in the ACT. The Reference Group is not a representative body but rather an

advisory group who are able to draw upon valued and relevant perspectives and experience.

The DRG currently has a member from an Aboriginal background who is the family carer for a child

with disability who is happy to engage with and mentor an incoming member to the group.

If you are interested please contact the secretariat support Nadia McGuire on 6207 9959. We will

ask you for a copy of your resume and a few questions that will include:

Why do you want to be on the ACT Disability Reference Group?

What knowledge can you bring to the ACT Disability Reference Group?

What experience do you have with promoting the inclusion of people with disability?

The Reference Group generally meets six times per year for two hours with an expectation of out-of-session preparation and participation in community engagement and sub committees. The role is remunerated and takes into consideration the possibility of people needing to negotiate to be released from other commitments including employment to fully participate.

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Rachelle Kelly of the ACT Ombudsman’s office is keen to expand her networks, engage with as many people as possible, and raise the profile of the Ombudsman amongst the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community.

The ACT Ombudsman was established in 1989 and is an Officer of the ACT Legislative Assembly. There are seven staff in the ACT Ombudsman Strategy Team including Policy and Strategy Officer, Rachelle.

The Ombudsman’s primary role is to take complaints in relation to ACT Government agencies. There

are some things the Ombudsman cannot deal with including complaints relating to health, disability

or young people. These matters can be referred to the ACT Human Rights Commission or other

relevant agency. The Ombudsman often encourages people to work through their concerns with the

agency itself before making a complaint to our office. The aim in all cases is to consider complaints

fairly and transparently and to help agencies improve their services. Agencies may also decide to

review their decision, their processes or public information as a result of the complaints process.

The Ombudsman’s office has taken on new functions this year, including in relation to the ACT Reportable Conduct Scheme. The scheme commenced on 1 July 2017 and is an employment-based child protection scheme. Employers that must notify the Ombudsman of reportable allegations or convictions against employees include:

all ACT directorates

health service providers

out of home care, kinship and foster care

residential care organisations

government and non-government schools

child care services

education and care service providers, such as after school care. Under the scheme, an employee is any person engaged by a contract with one of the above employers. It does not matter if this type of employee provides services to children or not, they are still considered under the scheme. A volunteer or a person who is a contractor for one of the above employers is also considered under the scheme but only if they provide services to children. We would encourage you to talk with your employer about the scheme, visit our website or speak to one of our staff members for more information. The Ombudsman will be holding information sessions in the near future. To register your interest or subscribe to our mailing list, please email ACT@ombudsman.gov.au or visit our website: ombudsman.act.gov.au

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Gugan Gulwan Streetbeat Youth Outreach Program (Streetbeat) is a tailored health program to

reach vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in the ACT region. It operates on Friday

and Saturday nights from 7pm - 11pm, targeting

meeting places and identified “trouble spots” across

the ACT.

Gugan Gulwan Streetbeat Outreach program is unique

in its design as the program delivers its support and

services to the young people in their chosen venues.

Gugan Gulwan Streetbeat Outreach Program is a soft

entry point for support for many young people. Our

support is non-confrontational, non-judgmental or

statutory in nature.

The Gugan Gulwan Streetbeat Outreach Program

works collaboratively with Australian Federal Police, St

John’s Night Crew, Refuges, Youth Centres and various

local night clubs to ensure we are reaching the most

vulnerable of our young people. The program is truly

an authentic early intervention diversionary service

with Streetbeat Outreach workers distributing health

contact information and resources, taking referrals and

supporting appropriate diversionary interventions for youth at high risk of being dealt with by police.

A distinct attraction of the Streetbeat Outreach program has been our BBQ trailer and music station;

it becomes a central hub of activity with many young people gathering to have some food, enjoy a

yarn and listen to their music. In 2017 the introduction and distribution of anti-drinking spiking kits

has seen more young women engage with Streetbeat. Over

a six-month period over 2500 sexual health information

packs were handed out by Streetbeat staff.

Gugan Gulwan Streetbeat Outreach Program welcomes the opportunity to attend local youth orientated events on Friday and Saturday nights. If you are hosting or know of an event that you think could provide benefit to our vulnerable youth, please contact Gugan Gulwan on (02) 6296 8900 or ggyacadmin@gugan-gulwan.com.au

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This year Marymead is celebrating 50 years of proudly supporting children and families. The year has been packed full of events to celebrate, including a Family Fun Day on Sunday 26

February exactly 50 years to the day of Marymead opening its doors in 1967. The celebration

continued with a 50th Anniversary Luncheon in June attended by 350 of Marymead’s supporters,

community volunteers and corporate

partners to celebrate their amazing 50

year history and reflect on where they

have come from and their mission going

forwards. The luncheon also provided

Marymead with the opportunity to

acknowledge and thank their corporate

partners and volunteer groups.

This year also marks the start of a major

redevelopment of Marymead’s original site

in Narrabundah, which will include the

building of an 84 house retirement village

and purpose built Marymead facilities

including new adaptable cottages and a centre

featuring counseling rooms, family contact spaces and training and education facilities. Most of the

ACT staff have temporarily relocated for two years to the Rheinberger Centre in Yarralumla, with off-

site locations for some counseling services and contact services, the mulch Program and

accommodation houses.

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50th Anniversary luncheon

Original Site - 1967 Nuns walking dog

With the current range of health issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, it is self-

evident that those working to promote equality in the wider health sector should also be actively

working to shape culture and attitudes within their own organisations. With the launch of our 2017–

18 Reconciliation Action Plan, the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA) has taken

the time to reflect on our own practices and ensure that we are effectively contributing to realising a

vision for reconciliation.

AHHA has been the national voice for public healthcare for 70 years, maintaining its vision for an

effective, innovative and sustainable health system where all Australians have equitable access to

healthcare of the highest standard. AHHA is the national peak body for public and not-for-profit

hospitals, Primary Health Networks, community and primary healthcare services.

Addressing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ health

disparities has been a significant focus for AHHA, but we are

committed to working harder than ever. Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander peoples experience a significantly higher burden of disease

and a reduced life expectancy in comparison to other Australians.

Sustained comprehensive action is required to address inequities in

health outcomes. AHHA aims to support the transformation of the

health system to one that provides culturally safe services.

At AHHA, our inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan formally begins our own journey towards

reconciliation. We invite those who wish to contribute

to our knowledge, learning and activities to engage

with us and help us work towards an equitable health

system for all Australians.

AHHA’s Reconciliation Action Plan is available on our

website at https://ahha.asn.au/governance AHHA will

formally launch our Reconciliation Action Plan in

Sydney on 18 September with an hour-long event for

members and stakeholders. For more information, or to

get involved, contact admin@ahha.asn.au.

AHHA website: http://ahha.asn.au/

AHHA RAP (pdf): http://ahha.asn.au/sites/default/files/docs/policy-issue/ahha_reflect_rap_2017-

18_final_high_res.pdf

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Lakeside Leisure Centre has been granted funding through Swimming New South Wales, to assist Indigenous swimmers to participate in structured swimming and water safety programs. According to Royal life Saving Society New South Wales the 60% of drowning deaths in New South Wales, occurs in the 0-4 year age group. There has also been research into the benefits that swimming pools play in the community. Some of the benefits include:

Improved school attendance when swimming programs run during school times

Fun, fitness and friendship

Improved self confidence

Whole community involvement – all ages can participate What Lakeside Leisure Centre can provide for you is:

10 lessons for 30 minutes— 1 lessons per week at the same day and time

A Qualified Instructor The family will need to contribute $50 per child for 10 lessons ($5 per lesson) this will be taken at the time of enrolment

Spaces are limited and will work on a 1st come 1st serve basis

If you are interested please contact reception on

Phone: 02 6293 3122

Email: llc@ymcansw.org.au

Lakeside Leisure Centre is located at:

Corner Anketell Street and Athllon Drive, Greenway, ACT 2900

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The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Bus is now available to transport you and your family around Canberra and the surrounding regions if you have limited access to other transport options.

How does the bus work?

The Community Bus operates Monday to Friday during business hours. If you need transport in and around Canberra, you can make a booking for the bus to pick you up and drop you off. The mini bus has 12 seats and wheelchair access and can be booked for groups and events. The bus can go as far as Queanbeyan, Yass, Cooma, Goulburn and Braidwood.

How do I book the bus?

To book a trip on the bus simply email your details to communitybus@act.gov.au or call (02) 6205 1116 or 13 17 10. You need to make your booking two days before you want to travel so we can schedule you in.

When making your booking we need the following details:

Address of pick up location

Pick up time

Address of drop off location

How many passengers are catching the bus

The bus will try to take the quickest route to your destination; however it may have to stop for other passengers in different locations. You will receive a confirmation email when your booking is approved.

Who can use the bus?

The Community bus is available to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders living in and around Canberra who do not have easy access to an ACTION bus. We welcome all passengers especially:

Elders in the community

Parents with young children who have limited transport alternatives

Social groups

Sporting teams (by arrangement)

People who are isolated and cannot access normal travel options

For further information contact the Flexible Transport Office on (02) 6205 1116 or 13 17 10.

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The ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Centre is a unique piece of Canberra’s history.

Originally the temporary home of the National Museum of Australia the site was handed to the ACT

Government for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Centre in 2000.

It is a perfect location for hosting events such as meetings, conferences, workshops and other private

functions like weddings, promotional stalls, small scale musical performances, and Christmas functions.

There is free onsite parking for 70-80 vehicles which is a bonus. Hire rates start from $206, so if you’re

looking for a venue to hold a function, contact the Cultural Centre Manager at

ATSICulturalCentre@act.gov.au or phone on 6207 1110.

More info: See website

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Subscribe for regular information

Do you receive regular information and updates through the ACT Indigenous Network? If not, why not

subscribe to the distribution list?

The email group was established over 10 years ago, initially for Canberra’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander Public Servants to share news, events and general information.

Over the years the membership has grown and now includes national and international affiliates.

Members are both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and organisations and non-Indigenous

people and organisations with an interest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs.

To subscribe follow this link

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Want to publish something in this newsletter?

If you would like to share a story about yourself, someone you know, or any upcoming project and/or

events of interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander community, please send your entry to

OATSIA@act.gov.au or call 6207 9784.

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