Following on from the first round of consultations conducted by FaHCSIA, in late 2008 the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Social Justice Commissioner, Tom Calma was invited by the Australian Government to convene an independent Steering Committee to develop a preferred model for a national representative body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
While great progress has been made, there are still many issues that require discussion, feedback and direction from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and Mr Calma has released a second Community Guide and called for written submissions to inform the final report to Government.
“This is your opportunity to have a say and contribute to a process designed by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.” Mr Calma said.
“The Steering Committee encourages all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, our communities, our organisations and our peak bodies to get involved in the consultation process. We will be conducting a national survey and a naming competition, as well as calling for written submissions.”
FaHCSIA will be co-ordinating the written submissions process.