We're a culturally diverse community and Wollongong City Council is committed to making improvements on how we hear all voices when we are seeking feedback on a project, concept or initiative.
To support this promise Council has adopted its first Aboriginal Engagement Framework. The document recognises local Aboriginal communities significant contribution to our city.
The Framework will guide Council's elected members, staff and consultants on how to engage in a culturally respectful and consistent way.
"This is a very important document and everything within it is underpinned by local Aboriginal culture, knowledge and heritage. It also clearly articulates how we value the long history and cultural contribution of the local Aboriginal communities,'' Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.
"It will support Council to engage in a culturally appropriate way and includes a set of principles, protocols and resources to support engagement with Aboriginal people and their communities.
"While it may be a document to guide Council in how it works with local Aboriginal communities, it provides a reference point for others beyond Council.''
The framework adopted by Council acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land and includes six principles. These are:
- We will value and respect Aboriginal culture
- We will allow time for authentic engagement
- We will include Aboriginal people in matters that directly affect them and involve them throughout the life of the project
- We will act with integrity and seek to build trust
- We will be transparent and open with information and processes
- We will listen, learn and talk
- We will deliver on our commitments
