In the lead up to the Queensland state election we focus on key issues the LGAQ are campaigning for on behalf of its members. This week, the spotlight is on support for capacity building and digital literacy in indigenous communities.
Ahead of the state election, the LGAQ has called for $2.5 million in additional funding to Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKCs) to support digital literacy in discrete indigenous communities.
The council run IKCs deliver a range of services to indigenous communities across Queensland, including the promotion of programs that encourage the retention of traditional knowledge, culture and languages, and family history research.
Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Alf Lacey said the technology IKCs brought into the community was vital.
“It’s a space in our community which has worked well not only in a cultural and heritage sense, but in giving young people and older people the opportunity to think differently,” Mayor Lacey said.
“Particularly for school and university students who prefer to stay in the community, it provides a community hub.”
Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Desmond Tayley said a successful Indigenous Knowledge Centre created a positive space for the entire community.
“The kids go in and watch movies, engage with the digital technology we have,” Mayor Tayley said.
“Digital technology is the way to move forward and IKC’s create a space and opportunity for that to happen.”
