A more collaborative and inclusive approach to decisions impacting First Nations people and culture was confirmed at the March Kempsey Shire Council meeting, with Councillors agreeing to establish a First Nations Advisory Group as a committee of Council.
The Notice of Motion to establish the group, presented by Councillor Annette Lawrence, highlighted the need for this group, which will provide valuable advice and raise awareness on matters impacting Aboriginal communities in the Kempsey Shire.
Kempsey Shire Council Mayor, Kinne Ring, stated this is a significant step towards increased collaboration and understanding.
"The First Nations Advisory Group will not only facilitate a deeper understanding of local heritage and culture, but it will also support inclusion, collaboration and culturally aware decision-making by Council. By working together, we can ensure that voices are heard and respected in the decisions that shape our future," said Mayor Ring.
Speaking on her Notice of Motion, Councillor Lawrence commended fellow Councillors on supporting the motion and emphasised the importance of incorporating First Nations voices into Council decision-making processes
"This group will bring Aboriginal voices to the table, integrating their perspectives into decisions that shape our community's future. It will be a formal, culturally safe and respectful channel through which Aboriginal people can actively participate in the Council's decision-making processes," said Councillor Lawrence.
Kempsey Shire Council Acting Director of Corporate Commercial, Liesa Davies, said the next steps of forming this group will unfold in the next five months.
"Council staff will prepare a draft Terms of Reference for the group, including its focus and objectives. We will be seeking feedback from local First Nations people who may be interested in participating in the group and any necessary revisions will be made before the document is presented to Council for approval at a future meeting," said Ms Davies.
"Once the Terms of Reference are adopted, we will move forward with an Expression of Interest process to seek local people interested in being a member of the Group."
The Expressions of Interest process will commence no later than September 2025.
