More than 60 Indigenous leaders from Queensland’s 17 First Nations councils have gathered in Cairns this week to discuss common issues affecting their communities.

MAYORS and councillors representing Queensland’s First Nations councils have gathered today at the LGAQ's Annual Conference to discuss issues critical to their communities.

The new Closing the Gap agreement must be Indigenous-led and must consider community views. The Government should harness the wisdom of local people and local representatives.

Wow, what a week. The Indigenous Leaders Forum here in Cairns, Queensland Day and a State of Origin win in the first game of the 2019 Series.

There are scores of policy announcements that might not get the big headlines but point to a genuine commitment to improve the lot of Australians.

Indigenous housing should be part of the conversation this Federal election.

The Federal Government’s looming withdrawal from a vital remote Indigenous housing funding program has prompted the LGAQ to engage in a comprehensive and hard-fought campaign with its member councils.

The Palaszczuk Government should be congratulated on its decision to invest $40 million next year on a modest housing program for remote indigenous communities.

The Commonwealth Government’s own independent review into the issue has recommended long-term Federal support.

There is still much to be done to ensure the country’s First Peoples have all the advantages that other Australians enjoy as a matter of course.