Sixteen outstanding finalists have been shortlisted for the 2022 Queensland Reconciliation Awards, honouring innovative and impactful initiatives advancing reconciliation across Queensland.
From a youth-oriented Indigenous language program, to social media projects sharing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories, and businesses enhancing job opportunities for First Nations people, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk celebrated the quality and diversity of finalists in the Awards' 20th year.
"Over the last two decades, the Queensland Reconciliation Awards have highlighted the passion and dedication of Queenslanders who champion and drive reconciliation across our state," the Premier said.
"We know reconciliation is as much about the journey as it is about the destination – ensuring all voices are heard, acknowledging and accepting the wrongs of the past, and creating new systems built on fairness, equality and trust.
"The projects shortlisted in 2022 have been an integral part of this journey, applying innovation, traditional knowledge and complementary partnerships to initiatives which empower communities and make a real difference.
"I congratulate all of our worthy finalists and commend everyone who put forward a nomination in this milestone year for the Queensland Reconciliation Awards."
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Craig Crawford said the Awards illuminated the efforts all Queenslanders make towards reconciliation.
"This year we continue to see Queenslanders show leadership in coming up with fresh approaches and forging new partnerships that promote reconciliation and deliver positive outcomes," Minister Crawford said.
"Last year we introduced a new Health and Wellbeing category for the Awards, with the inaugural Award going to Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia for their commitment to Closing the Gap, by improving access to health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"Reconciliation is everybody's business. I encourage all Queenslanders to embrace the spirit of reconciliation to build stronger relationships, mutual respect and trust."
Longstanding Queensland Reconciliation Awards Ambassador Johnathan Thurston said he was excited to celebrate the variety of projects honoured in 2022.
"Hearing stories that embrace our rich heritage, and show appreciation of First Nations languages, makes me proud to be an Awards Ambassador" Mr Thurston said.
"These Awards encourage all Queenslanders to pause and reflect on what steps they are taking to advance reconciliation – in their school or workplace, and out in the broader community."
The 2022 Queensland Reconciliation Awards will be announced during National Reconciliation Week, with finalists invited to attend the awards ceremony in Cairns.
Recipients will be selected across five categories – Business, Community, Education, Health and wellbeing, and Partnership –with an overall Premier's Reconciliation Award awarded to an initiative demonstrating innovation and delivering exceptional outcomes.
The 2022 Awards recipients will receive a share of $30,000 in prize money.
The Awards are proudly supported by Bank of Queensland, The University of Queensland, the Queensland University of Technology, James Cook University and Santos.
The Queensland Reconciliation Awards is an initiative of the Queensland Government through the Department of the Premier and Cabinet and the Department of Seniors, Disability Services and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships.
