Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) has endorsed the development of a Reconciliation Action Plan in collaboration with Reconciliation Australia.
TRC Environment and Community Committee Chair Councillor James O'Shea said he was proud to support the initiative which is a great step forward, not only for Council, but for the entire community.
"The development of a Reconciliation Action Plan is an important part of the process as we work towards developing and strengthening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in our community," Cr O'Shea said.
"It's not just about building respect and trust, but it's also about proactively working together to bring about positive change and equality.
"Our Region has an incredible depth of history and there's so much we can learn from our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"The plan is to be established, in consultation with Reconciliation Australia, who will provide strategic feedback and endorsement once finalised.
"While developing the plan is a formal process, at the heart of it is the desire to connect with and empower our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"Formalising this commitment will help Council set tangible actions and remain accountable on our journey toward reconciliation."
As a proud First Nation's Awabakal Descendant, Cr Bill Cahill said he was pleased to be involved in this significant milestone.
"The importance of this piece of work can't be understated," he said.
"Reconciliation isn't something that is attained then forgotten. It's about developing respectful and trusting relationships between all Australian people that becomes part of our work and everyday life.
"Council staff and key stakeholders will be engaged throughout the process and implementation of the action strategies identified will be a whole of Council approach.
"I encourage my fellow Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander colleagues to take every opportunity to become involved to create a better future for us all.
"To ensure the effectiveness of the Reconciliation Action Plan, it's important we engrain this methodology into our day-to-day activities. For example, in the planning space, let's give our staff the background and cultural information they need to incorporate these principles into all our planning processes.
"The sooner this becomes part of our regular processes, the sooner we'll be able to create stronger relationships for everyone from all walks of life."
The development of the Toowoomba Regional Council Reconciliation Action Plan is expected to take two years, with implementation of the final endorsed plan to be actioned over a 3-5 year period.
Once accredited, Council will be required to report publicly to Reconciliation Australia each year on the progress of plan objectives.
