Partnerships

Working in partnership with Aboriginal community members and organisations is an effective way for Local Governments to build local relationships and trust, increase the cultural competency of the organisation and strengthen the impact of programs, services and local area development for all residents.

Partnering with Aboriginal community members on the design and delivery of policies and programs is also a powerful way for Local Governments to address historical injustices, empower Aboriginal people and support , ensuring people have a say in matters that affect them.

Partnerships will vary according to the local context, purpose and outcomes sought. They can include networks or alliances that support the sharing of information and resources, through to partnerships with formal governance arrangements where decision-making is shared or led by respective parties.

Local Governments looking to establish partnerships around specific projects and initiatives should seek advice and support from local Aboriginal organisations and community leaders to understand cultural protocols that need to be respected and followed and identify ways to address any barriers to participation. Offering compensation to Aboriginal people for their cultural knowledge and time is a respectful protocol.