Dechlan Brennan for NIT News reported on 6 June that First Nations people from across Australia are gathering to shape the future of a new national Indigenous body. This is a significant step forward toward a National Voice since the failed referendum.
Indigenous organisations from across the country will come together in September to consider the creation of a new national body dedicated to advancing the interests of First Peoples.
The National Gathering will take place in Port Douglas, Queensland, from September 15 to 17. It is open to Native Title and other First Nations representative organisations with a connection to Country and recognised cultural authority.
Decisions will be made by broad consensus, with a Council of First Nations, who will provide a critical organising capacity, having been formed to organise the event.
The Council comes out of the fundraising vehicle for Yes23’s campaign for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament — a registered charity, up until recently called Australians for Indigenous Constitutional Recognition.
Duane Fraser (pictured), a Wulgurukaba and Bidjara Traditional Owner, is the Council of First Nations’ Chief Executive.
He said the National Gathering would serve as an opportunity to refocus on a shared purpose and consider forming a new body to represent Indigenous people on a national scale.
“Just as our peoples have done from time immemorial. Traditional Owner representative organisations will journey from Country — coming together with purpose and respect to decide the courses of action that will shape our future.”
The National Gathering will focus on aligning strategic priorities, influencing government, and leading change in key policy areas affecting Indigenous communities.
Based on the principle of self-determination, Mr Fraser said the new body would be a “meaningful, inclusive, and enduring platform” for Traditional Owners and community representatives.
“Its purpose would be determined by the Gathering. Unified, we will stand up for our families, communities, lands, skies, waters and resources,” he said.
If the proposal to establish a new national body is endorsed at the gathering, the next steps would include confirming membership, setting up a sustainable governance model, and appointing a board.
The gathering would also define the organisation’s core strategic direction, with Mr Fraser arguing the timing is crucial to both continue the progress made by First Peoples, and move toward genuine partnerships with government and institutions.
“By creating a representative body, we can ensure First Nations voices are not only present in every major discussion but are listened to and acted upon,” he said.
“Together we are moving towards a stronger future, respecting the independence of each First Nation but advocating with a unified purpose.”