It’s time to talk treaty in Queensland

The path to treaty in Queensland takes another step forward this week, with statewide consultation sessions set to commence in Cairns on Thursday (17 October).

Cairns will host the first of 26 sessions to be held in every corner of the state to engage Queenslanders in the conversation on the journey towards a future that is more just, more equal and more respectful for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders.

Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Jackie Trad said the conversation about treaty formed part of the Queensland Government’s commitment to reframing the relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders.

“This is the first time Queensland has had a statewide conversation on treaty and agreement-making with First Nations Queenslanders and it is another step forward in our state’s journey to reconciliation.

“The conversation about treaty forms part of the Queensland Government’s commitment to reframing the relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders.

“Public consultation sessions are being held in remote, regional and urban centres throughout Queensland, stretching from the Torres Strait to Townsville and Brisbane to Birdsville,” Ms Trad said.

“All Queenslanders are invited to join the conversation and have their say about treaty in a respectful way, sharing what it means to them, what treaty – or treaties – could look like and why.

“Path to Treaty is a once-in-a-generation opportunity and it will benefit all Queenslanders.

“The aim of the treaty process is to help deliver greater self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities that will lead to stimulated local economies that are creating more jobs and helping to deliver improved housing and health outcomes.”

Ms Trad said an independent Eminent Panel and Treaty Working Group would lead the statewide conversation across the state.

“Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous representatives from various walks of life —including academia, community leaders, business owners and human rights advocates — will guide genuine, respectful and meaningful conversations on Queensland’s Path to Treaty,” she said.

“It is essential the voices of all Queenslanders are heard in this important conversation.

“Queensland is ready for this conversation and now is our time to talk treaty as we walk together on this journey grounded in voice, treaty and truth.

“Eminent Panel Co-Chair Dr Jackie Huggins said the Path to Treaty process would help acknowledge past wrongs.

“The Path to Treaty process allow us to move towards a shared future, where the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders are valued and embraced,” Dr Huggins said.

“In the coming months we look forward to hearing community voices and learning what a Path to Treaty means to all Queenslanders.”

Eminent Panel Co-Chair Professor Michael Lavarch said the panel included a diverse representation of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous peoples.

“All members of the Eminent Panel are passionate about reconciliation between Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australia,” Professor Lavarch said.

Eminent Panel:

  • Co-Chair Dr Jackie Huggins AM
  • Co-Chair Professor the Hon Michael Lavarch AO
  • Hon Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO
  • Mr Mick Gooda
  • Ms Josephine Bourne
  • Mr Kerry O’Brien
  • Mr Dan Crowley

To share your feedback on Path to Treaty, learn more or attend a community consultation session visit www.datsip.qld.gov.au/treaty

/Public Release. View in full here.