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Purpose and scope

The First Nations Advisory Committee develops and implements priorities for Council relating to Reconciliation, which is consistent with the priorities of the Human Rights Policy. The committee works to strengthen Reconciliation through whole-of-Council and whole-of-community involvement in the implementation of the Human Rights Policy.

Advisory Committee objectives

  • Provide advice to Council through the Merri-bek Human Rights Advisory Committee on access, equity and justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
  • Oversee and assist with the implementation of Council’s projects and strategies for Reconciliation.
  • Identify advocate and promote understanding on issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.
  • Promote understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture through collaborative effort.
  • Make the most of all opportunities to further Reconciliation within Council, the community, business and with other spheres of government.

Members

  • Gary John Murray
  • Liz Phillips
  • Sue Atkinson Lopez
  • Kim Kruger
  • Bob Williams
  • Wurundjeri Woi wurrung Elders Aunty Gail Smith and Aunty Julieanne Axford
  • The meetings will be chaired by a member of the committee selected on the basis of consensus.
  • The group will have only First Nations community members
  • Eligibility of First Nations members is not limited to those who live, work or study in the City of Merri-bek.
  • Community representatives are selected as a result of public invitation and advertising and submitting a written expression of interest.
  • Members of the Group will be selected by the committee to attend the represent the Group recommendations on the Human Rights Advisory Committee meetings.

The committee meets 4-6 times a year at Merri-bek Civic Centre or at a community venues.

Read the Terms of Reference for our First Nations Advisory Committee (PDF 1KB)