The first ever Indigenous-focused State Cabinet meeting was held in Cairns this week as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to work with all Queenslanders.
The meeting focused on identifying avenues for the Government to partner with Indigenous councils to drive economic opportunities.
“By working in partnership with mayors, we will harness local strengths and build on our positive economic initiatives to foster jobs growth and deliver locally-tailored solutions for every community,” Acting Premier Jackie Trad said.
Palm Island Mayor Alf lacey said the meeting was both meaningful and productive and that engaging and collaborating with Indigenous leaders was important to effectively capture vital local knowledge.
“It was an historic event that provided a great opportunity to have direct dialogue with the Minister and the Government. We are hopeful the dialogue will continue and we can work together to achieve some positive outcomes,” he said.
Recently-appointed Minister for Local Government and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Mark Furner also attended the meeting.
In February, the Minister affirmed his commitment to addressing disadvantage experienced by Indigenous communities.
“Queensland has the nation’s second largest Indigenous population, so it’s never been more important to continue our efforts to reduce disadvantage among our citizens of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander origin,” Mr Furner said.