Aboriginal advisory committee for Kwinana

Aboriginal advisory committee for Kwinana
12 May 2023

Kwinana Council approves the establishment of an Aboriginal advisory committee on Wednesday, 10 May at its Ordinary Council Meeting.

 

Caption: Boola Maara co-chairs Cr Barry Winmar and Mayor Carol Adams.

Kwinana Council this week approved the establishment of an Aboriginal advisory committee.

Mayor Carol Adams said Census 2021 data shows the City of Kwinana has the highest proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Perth Metropolitan Area at 4.4 per cent and the City would now legitimise a dedicated committee under its Standing Orders.

“As the City’s relationship with the Aboriginal community matures, we have now resolved that the existing Boola Maara (Many Hands) Advisory Group become a committee pursuant to Section 5.8 of the Local Government Act 1995,” Mayor Adams said.

City Officers will engage with the existing Advisory Group on terms of reference and operations for the committee and a future report will be presented to Council to consider the terms of reference and details of the intended membership.

In 2018, the Boola Maara (Many Hands) Advisory Group was established to support, guide and monitor the implementation of the City’s Reconciliation Action Plan and other matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“The additional function of the Aboriginal advisory committee would be to work in partnership in support and advice Council in making decisions in a culturally appropriate, respectful, and informed manner in relation to community matters that impact directly or indirectly on our Aboriginal community,” Mayor Adams said.

“The committee would also provide input into policy development, planning and advice to Council across all areas where there is like to be an impact on Aboriginal people and the local community.

“For example, it would support and advise Council on how services and events could be more relevant and accessible to Aboriginal people, and provide an opportunity for ongoing dialogue between local Aboriginal people, Aboriginal peak bodies, and Council,” she said.

This week, the City of Kwinana also welcomed its first Aboriginal Partnerships Advisor to provide support to the Chief Executive Officer, Executive Team, and staff on Aboriginal cultural practices and guide the City on how services, planning and events can be undertaken in a culturally respectful way.

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