Government Congratulates Newly Elected Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Body


Released 25/07/2017

The new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body will bring a mix of experience and new energy to representing the ACT’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community for the next three years.

On behalf of the ACT Government, I congratulate the members of the Fourth Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body:

  • Caroline Hughes
  • Katrina Fanning
  • Jo Chivers
  • Ross Fowler
  • Maurice Walker
  • Fred Monaghan
  • Jacob Keed

The Government looks forward to working with the new Elected Body as we continue to implement the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Agreement 2015-2018, with its focus on stronger families and connected communities. Only by working together can we close the gap that persists in too many areas.

During the next few months, I will start a conversation with the Elected Body and wider Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to develop a new Agreement.

This conversation comes at an important time, as the Federal Government seeks to refresh the Closing the Gap framework, and the nation and our community debate constitutional recognition and a national representative voice. We are also closely watching the treaty and agreement-making processes currently underway in other jurisdictions.

The ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body is the only body of its kind in Australia, and works with the ACT Government to progress the policy agenda for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the ACT.

This election saw a record 25 candidates stand to represent their community. I commend all of these candidates for their commitment to making a difference for their people. It is a sign of the enduring strength of the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, and I have no doubt that each candidate will continue to make an enormous contribution to the community.

Bios of the members of the Fourth Elected Body are available on request.

- Statement ends -

Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases


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