Constitutional change to give Indigenous people a greater say in national affairs has taken a step forward in Queensland as the state seeks to inform the federal process.
The national Albanese government has pledged to hold a referendum on enshrining a Voice to Parliament in the constitution.
Made up of Indigenous people from across the country, a specially created body would consult with government to have their views heard on laws that impact their communities.
With a prospective Voice to Parliament in mind, an eight member First Nations Consultative Committee (FNCC) has been appointed for 12 months to develop a preferred model for Queensland.
“Each member demonstrated they had community support and proven ability to advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders of all ages, abilities, genders, and locations,” Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Craig Crawford said on Thursday.
“The FNCC will use their connection to the region, experience, culture and community to lead the co-design process and consider a range of Indigenous Voice options including the establishment of a state-based Voice structure.”
The appointments include Patricia Lees AM (Gulf and West region), Terry O’Shane (far north), Karen Dini-Paul (Cape York), Edward Smallwood (North Qld), Joshua Gorringe (Central Qld), Kerry Crumblin (southwest), Cameron Costello (southeast) and Talei Elu (Torres Strait).
AAP
