October 17, 2019
The journey towards a treaty with Indigenous Queenslanders will take another step forward this week, with the beginning of statewide consultation sessions.
Deputy Premier Jackie Trad said 26 Path To Treaty sessions were being organised across the State to engage Queenslanders in the conversation.
Sessions are scheduled to be held in Cherbourg on November 26 and in Toowoomba on December 3.
“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,” Ms Trad said.
“The conversation about treaty forms part of the Queensland Government’s commitment to reframing the relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders.
“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 conversation across the State.
“It is essential the voices of all Queenslanders are heard in this important conversation,” she said.
“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.”
Panel members are: Co-Chair Dr Jackie Huggins AM, Co-Chair Prof Michael Lavarch AO, Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO, Mick Gooda, Josephine Bourne, Kerry O’Brien and Dan Crowley.
- For more information or to attend a community consultation session visit www.datsip.qld.gov.au/treaty
