August 2017 EditionContents

Director’s Message.........................................................................................................................1

Minister’s Message.........................................................................................................................2

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body............................................................3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Portal.........................................................................11

2017-2018 Participation (Veterans and Seniors) Grants................................................11

ACT Health 2017 NAIDOC and Reconciliation Awards......................................................12

Medical scholarships awarded to students..........................................................................13

Register for Participation on ACT Government Boards and Committees..................13

ACT Human Rights Commission -Section 27 (2) Respecting Culture Project...........14

UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP)....................................15

ACT Disability Reference Group Membership.....................................................................16

ACT Ombudsman...........................................................................................................................17

Housing and Homelessness in the ACT.................................................................................18

Streetbeat Youth Outreach Program......................................................................................19

Marymead Celebrating 50 years.............................................................................................20

Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA) Reconciliation Action Plan....................................................................................................................................................21

Funded Swimming Lessons – Lakeside Leisure Centre....................................................22

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Bus.....................................................23

ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Centre.............................................24

Director’s Message

The Office for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs (OA&TSIA) would like to welcome you to the 4th edition for 2017 of the Newsletter. OA&TSIA would like to acknowledge the organisations that paid tribute to the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Childrens’ Day and International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples that have occurred in the last few weeks.

The newsletter will focus on the recent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body (ATSIEB) elections which concluded in July. On behalf of the team at OA&TSIA, congratulations to all seven candidates that were successful in being elected and a huge thank you to the candidates that missed out. Congratulations to the Chair Katrina Fanning, and Co-chair, Jo Chivers on their election to these positions.

This election had the largest number ever of candidates to nominate and with an increased number of voters demonstrate the enhanced influence ATSIEB has had on community matters and the willingness of the community to participate. Congratulations also go to the OA&TSIA and Elections ACT staff on the superb effort to make the elections possible.

The ACT Government Flag Raising Ceremony was held on the Monday of NAIDOC week and despite the conditions, over 150 people attended. Thank you to the flag raisers, Mrs. Alex Sloan, Mrs. Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA, Mr. Bradley Bell and Ms Samantha Faulkner.

Well done to all the NAIDOC Week Award Winners that was announced at the NAIDOC Week Ball.

OA&TSIA has recently gone through some staff changes with Gill Eshman taking up a role in the Ministers Office and Bryanne Beltrami moving to a position in the Federal Government. We would like to congratulate both and wish them the best on their journey. We welcome Kerry Baker to the office, and her role is the Executive Assistant and Project Officer.

Due to recent changes in the Community Services Directorate, our office will now be located at Level 3, 11 Moore Street, Canberra City 2601. We are in the same building but closer to the ground which will be a godsend for staff when we have fire drills.

RegardsRobyn ForesterDirectorOffice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs

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Minister’s MessageBack to top

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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body

ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body election results announced

The names of the seven members to be declared elected to the ACT’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body were announced on Wednesday 19 July 2017, by the Acting ACT Electoral Commissioner, Mr Ro Spence.

“Counting for the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body election took place today, using the Hare-Clark proportional representation system. A record total of 435 votes were admitted to the count,” Mr Spence said.

Twenty five candidates contested the election. Voting for the election took place during the week starting Saturday 1 July and concluded on Saturday 8 July 2017. Any Aboriginal person or Torres Strait Islander aged 18 or over, living in the ACT, was eligible to vote in the election.

The successful candidates in the order in which they were elected are:

Caroline Hughes Katrina Fanning Jo Chivers Ross Fowler Maurice Walker Fred Monaghan Jacob Keed

On behalf of the team at OA&TSIA, congratulations to all seven candidates that were successful in being elected and a huge thank you to the candidates that missed out. See media release here

This election had the largest number ever of candidates to nominate (25) and with an increased number of voters demonstrate the influence ATSIEB has had on community matters and the willingness of the community to participate.

Katrina Fanning has been named the new Chair with Jo Chivers voted back into the position of deputy Chair. See media release here

Congratulations also go to the OA&TSIA and Elections ACT staff on the superb effort to make the elections possible.

Below is a brief Bio of the new members.

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Caroline HughesI am a proud Ngunnawal woman that is known for bringing people together from many nations and all walks of life to work in harmony and to excel. Under my management, I have continuously grown the capacity of Yurauna Centre to meet the needs of individuals and community. I am most proud of the fact that Yurauna is highly successful - due to ensuring our Aboriginal cultural is at the foremost of all that we do.

I believe in leading the way by example - Cultural Safety is more than words or artwork! It’s personally practicing what I demand of others. Which means accountability for myself and for governments.

I am known as someone that has proven leadership skills, excellent financial management skills with an ability to look beyond what I'm told. I have supported countless individuals in gaining qualifications and succeeding in their employment goals. I manage with high integrity - honesty with high cultural and moral values. Those that know me recognize that I have an open door policy and those individuals. Our people are more than just a statistic – I know that policy cannot be a one size fits all!

Under my leadership ACT has the best outcomes nationally in the training sector for First Nations peoples. I am passionate about what I do because I have seen the power that education has. I know that education is the key that unlocks all dreams and opens opportunities. Those that have needed help know that I ensure I've gone beyond to support. In other words I deliver outcomes for my people by ensuring I listen, investigate and then take action. I am at a point in my life that it is time to help others achieve the successes I have.

My top five priorities, but not limited to:

1. Cultural Heritage 2. Community Development 3. Education 4. Health 5. Employment

As a leader and professional educator I have developed, implemented, and facilitated educational programs to meet the needs of community. I hope that you the individual see the value that I can add to our Elected Body! My promise is to work with you for all our community.

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Katrina FanningKatrina is a Wiradjuri woman from Junee, NSW and has lived in the ACT for the majority of the past 26 years. During this time she has been an active community member involved in sports, community organisations and through her work.

Currently Katrina is the Director of Coolamon Advisors an Indigenous consulting firm based in Canberra. Previously she has held Senior Executive roles in Government including with Centrelink, Aboriginal Hostels and the Department of Education,

Employment and Workplace Relations. Her career started as a trainee in the ACT Government in 1995 having worked in the Magistrates Court, Sport and Recreation and Chief Ministers Departments.

Following her own successful rugby league career she has maintained involvement in the sport at a National level as member of the NRL Indigenous Council and manager of the Indigenous Women's All Stars team.

Katrina believes that the ACT should be nation leading in outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and that the best chance at this rests in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander led solutions. Her community knowledge and networks, coupled with Government experience have her well placed to assist the Elected Body in achieving in this regard.

In addition Katrina is a Board member of Marymead, the Womens Legal Centre and is a member of the Marist Indigenous parents group. Previously she has also held positions on the ACT NAIDOC Committee, assisted in the Indigenous Showcase at the Multicultural Festival, been the ACT representative at the National Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee and President of both Canberra and Australian Womens Rugby League Associations.

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Jo ChiversJo is a Palawa woman from Tasmania who moved to Canberra in 1993 to take up a graduate position with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC). She has been a Commonwealth Public Servant for the past 24 years and currently works in higher education policy. Jo is a single mum of two boys aged 14 and 20 and is passionate about health, education, justice, and youth issues that impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the ACT.

Achievements and contributions 3 separate nominations for the 2017 Australian of the

Year Awards Elected in March 2016 (term concludes July 2018) as the

ACT Labor Party’s first Indigenous President Deputy Chairperson of the ACT Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander Elected Body (ATSIEB) Chairperson, Canberra and District NAIDOC Aboriginal

Corporation ACT NAIDOC Committee member for around 20 years Nominee, 2017 ACT NAIDOC Person of the Year Award Nominee, 2017 ACT NAIDOC Elder of the Year Award Community member on Basketball ACT’s Reconciliation

Action Plan Working Group Nominee, 2016 National NAIDOC Person of the Year Award Nominee, 2016 ACT NAIDOC Person of the Year Award Nominee, 2016 ACT Citizen of the Year Award Finalist in the 2016 ACT Woman of the Year Awards Finalist in the 2015 ACT Woman of the Year Awards 2015 – Australian Government Department of Education and Training, Secretary’s Excellence

Awards 2014 – individual winner in the capability through diversity category Former member, ACT Ministerial Advisory Council for Aging Member, Governance Group, Prevention of Violence against Women and Children Strategy Co-chair, ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Justice Partnership Advisory Group Moderator, ACT Indigenous Email Network 2011 ACT NAIDOC Person of the Year Community member on the ACT Department of Health’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)

Working Group that developed the Department’s Inaugural RAP 2011-12 and the 2012-2015 RAP

Director on the Board for the Indigenous Reading Project Founding member of the Winnunga Warriors Basketball Club Mentor to Indigenous and non-Indigenous staff in the Australian Public Service Role model for other survivors of domestic violence

Jo is standing as a candidate in the upcoming election for the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body as she wants to use her skills, experience, and expertise to advocate for what the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community wants and more importantly needs. As the current ATSIEB member with portfolio responsibility for Justice and Community Safety, Jo is hoping

to be re-elected so she can continue to influence the work the ACT Government is undertaking in this area.

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Maurice WalkerOriginally from Woorabinda, Queensland, I’ve been living on Ngunnawal Country for nearly 30 years. I am currently working with the ACT Government, Housing ACT as a Senior Indigenous Policy Liaison Officer.

This is, proudly, my third term on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body and very honoured to be representing our Community to the ACT Government and their Directorates.

I would like to thank the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community for their support and confidence in me to represent their interests to Government. There are a lot of things that need to change and it’s been a hard slog trying to change peoples attitude towards letting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people manage their own affairs.

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ROSS FOWLERRoss Fowler is originally from the Bidigal Dharawal people of NSW with extended family connections to the Dhungutti and Gamilaroy peoples also in NSW.

Ross has lived in the ACT for over two decades, and has been an active community member in this time.

Ross works for the Justice and Community Safety Directorate as their Senior Adviser Social Inclusion.

Ross combines an employment history in government sectors at all levels with experience in the community sector, Ross has also represented his people on boards and committees and also advocate for the rights of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) people.

Ross has a passionate commitment to reducing the over representation of his people within the criminal justice system, ensuring young people have access to the education system and robust employment as well as protecting the intellectual cultural rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.

Ross has also served as the Chair and Deputy Chair and is a current Board of Director for the Gugan Gulwan Youth Aboriginal Corporation. Ross also served as the 3rd Term Chairperson for the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body.

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Fred Monaghan I was born in Griffith in 1953 that makes me 64 years of age. My family lived in a dirt floor humpy. l lived with four brothers and five sisters with my mother and father. When l turned eight or nine years of age, we moved into a new Government three bedroom home there was twelve of us just a bit overcrowded. I attended school in Griffith until l was 15 years of age. l left the educational system at a very young age had a few issues with the youth Justice system later as an adult. I did a lot of seasonal work around Victoria and New South Wales worked in numerous jobs in Sydney and lived in Sydney for five years. I moved to the Yass and ACT regions in the mid 70' firstly living in the Yass then moving to Queanbeyan in 1980. First job working as a trades assistance at the Weston Creek Police Complete then employed with ACT Forestry Commission later working at the Boomanulla Oval. I was then employed with Parks & Gardens as a machine operator which was for fourteen years, injuring my back being of work l was given the opportunity to be employed as a Aboriginal Youth Worker with the ACT Government. I was placed within a organization called Street Link being the only Indigenous Youth worker l was working mainly with Indigenous youths around the ACT. I was later employed as a Truancy Officer at Melrose High which really wasn’t my idea of working with my people, l then applied for a job with Gugan Gulwan. Gugan Gulwan was located at the Boomanulla Oval at the time we later moved to Red Hill location within a vacant Pre - School later moving to Erindale.During this time and earlier, l was involved in numerous advisory groups and committees working with the ACT Government, one being the Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee, also AJAC which was a national group, l was the ACT Representative. We were involved in establishing the Aboriginal Justice Centre putting in the Aboriginal Liaisons Officers position in the Belconnen Remand now being the Alexander Maconochie centre.I am also the Co - Chair of the Ngunnawal Elders Council. Being involved in the ACT Indigenous Circle Sentencing project, visiting different regions, gathering information to establish our own Circle for our Elders to question and support our young offenders. The AFP Aboriginal Liaison Officer and also having early discussions regarding the ACT Indigenous Rehab centre this was happening in 2000.I was the Indigenous Representative on the ACT New Prison Panel, the argument in favour of establishing a new ACT Prison: To allow more control over rehabilitation and restoration The need to replace Belconnen Remand Centre due to poor design, high operational costs and limited capacity To provide opportunities for families to visit without substantial expenses To provide for convenience for legal representatives to gain access to their clients To create cost benefits including economic flow - on benefits for the ACT My involvement with establishing the Youth Narrabundah House Becoming a member of the ACT / NSW Aboriginal Legal Services Over the years, my involvement in the Prison and Youth Justice Systems has been ongoing being now a part of the 2017 Elected Body.l am hoping to continue to work with the ACT Government to get better and to establish a safe environment for our community and our people within the ACT.

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I am Jacob Neville Pierce Keed, proud Wiradjuri Tubbah Gah and Kamilaroi man. I was born in Woden Hospital on the 12th November 1991. I am 25 years old. I have lived in Canberra most of my life and call Canberra home.

I have a varied range of passions that drive me to what I do every day. They are: Family and friends Healthy work and personal life Social Inclusion Ensuring relationships between all and myself are

respectful and cared for The Reconciliation movement Historical books Music Sport

I work in ACT Government at Transport Canberra and City Services. While working in Government for the past 2 years I have worked at the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Bus service and now working in Procurement learning different aspects and government processes.

During my time in the Public Service I have learnt how Government operates and still growing my knowledge day by day. I have learnt how I can really help care for my community and that is to learn how Government operates, and at the same time build the understanding between community and the ACT Government to ensure everybody is heard and understood.

Focus: My main focus is ensuring opportunities, respect and relationships are created and maintained between all Australian, Aboriginal, and Torres Strait Islander people. I will do this action by negotiating to all stakeholders within community and ACT Government to carry out what needs to be done for the better future of our community here in the ACT and surrounding regions.

Hopefully one day I can do more for this country but first I want this community to achieve obtaining

Opportunities, regarding to employment, training, culture and cultural respect; Relationships, regarding to community, government and personal; Respect, regarding cultural respect and understanding between all Australian, Aboriginal, and

Torres Strait Islander people.

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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Portal

During Reconciliation Week the ACT Government launched the new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Portal. The Portal provides a platform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Canberrans to access information on ACT Government services, initiatives, and events. This initiative reflects feedback from the community that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people would benefit from a central platform to better connect with the ACT Government.

The Portal is structured around the seven key focus areas of the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Agreement 2015-18: Cultural identity; Healthy minds, healthy bodies; Feeling safe; Connecting the community; Employment and economic independence; Education; and Leadership. The Portal can be found at https://www.strongfamilies.act.gov.au/

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2017-2018 Participation (Veterans and Seniors) Grants

Community organisations will be invited to apply for non recurrent project funding of up to $10,000 as part of the 2017-2018 Participation (Veterans and Seniors) Grants Program. Applications will be sought for innovative projects that promote veterans and seniors as valued members of the ACT community. The primary aim of the grants is to support both older Canberrans and veterans to maintain their wellbeing, promote social connectedness and to enhance the ACT community through the provision of innovative projects and activities. Priority areas for funding are:

Respect and inclusion of seniors; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander veterans and seniors;

Elder Abuse awareness; and Social Inclusion of veterans

Grant applications will open 24th August and close 5 October 2017. More information: Call the Office for Veterans and Seniors on 6207 8830 or go to: http://www.communityservices.act.gov.au/wac/veterans-and-seniors/grants/participation-

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ACT Health 2017 NAIDOC and Reconciliation Awards

ACT Health conducted the 2017 NAIDOC and Reconciliation Awards ceremony on 13 July 2017 with Meegan Fitzharris, Minister for Health and Wellbeing presenting the awards to ACT Health staff and health partners in the ACT community who have shown outstanding work and commitment to Reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous people.

The ACT Health Reconciliation Recognition Award recognises commitment to Reconciliation and improving health care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The Employee Award was presented to Debbie Morgan at the Canberra Hospital Sexual Health Centre for her work educating and supporting young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the ACT on matters of sexual health and blood borne viruses.

The Community Award was presented to Gaye Doolan at Indigenous Health and Student Engagement at the Australian National University Medical School. Gaye developed a program encouraging Indigenous secondary students to study health-related careers at ANU, and played a key role in developing the Indigenous Health Stream at the ANU Medical School.

The ACT Health NAIDOC Award recognises outstanding effort by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff.

The Outstanding Individual Contribution Award was presented to Steven Keed for his work in the City Mental Health Team, ACT Health. Steven champions the importance of working with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and promotes more timely, accessible and responsive services for marginalised people with mental illness and diverse and complex needs.

The Outstanding Team Contribution Award was presented to Terry Sutherland and Jason Hall, the Aboriginal Liaison Officers in Mental Health, Justice Health, Alcohol and Drug Services. Terry and Jason regularly demonstrate leadership and commitment to improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, including education for non-Indigenous staff.

Congratulations to each of the winners at this year's awards and for your ongoing commitment to Reconciliation within the Canberra community.

Left to right: Reconciliation Recognition Employee Award Debbie Morgan, Reconciliation Recognition Community Award Gaye Doolan, Reconciliation Recognition Outstanding Individual Award Steven Keed, Meeghan

Fitzharris Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Reconciliation Recognition Outstanding Team Award Jason Hall and Terry Sutherland (not pictured), and Dr Danielle Dries, guest speaker and a former Dr Peter Sharp Scholarship recipient- now employed as a Doctor (JMO) at Canberra Hospital.

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Medical scholarships awarded to students

Members of the ACT Government were on hand when the ANU Medical School awarded its 2017 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholarships at a ceremony held at University House on Friday 18 August 2017.ANU Medical School Dean Professor Imogen Mitchell congratulated Harrison Slockee, Stephanie Pollard and Cree De Clouett on their scholarships.

"The ANU Medical School has a strong commitment to increasing the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who study medicine," said Professor Mitchell.

"It is great to be able to help and support some of our talented students at the start of their medical studies at ANU."

ACT Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith, spoke to the students at a ceremony at University House, while ACT Minister for Health Meegan Fitzharris presented the Peter Sharp Scholarship. Chair of the John James Foundation, Professor Paul Smith, presented the John James Foundation Award.

The Peter Sharp Scholarship was awarded to Harrison Slockee, a descendant of the Bundjalung people of Northern New South Wales.The John James Foundation Award recipient is Stephanie Pollard, a Wailwan woman.The National Indigenous Medicine Scholarship was awarded to Cree De Clouett, a descent of the Wadi Wadi people.The first Aboriginal medical student graduated in 2015. Since that time a further two Indigenous medical students have graduated from the program with eight currently enrolled across the four years.http://medicalschool.anu.edu.au/news-events/news/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-medical-scholarships-awarded-students

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Register for Participation on ACT Government Boards and

Committees

The ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Participation Register is to assist the ACT Government agencies match Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Canberrans who have relevant skills and expertise for consideration for appointment to ACT board and committee when vacancies arise. Nomination Form [PDF 191KB] [Word 103KB]

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ACT Human Rights Commission -Section 27 (2) Respecting Culture

ProjectThe ACT, along with Victoria, are the only two states or territories in Australia to have enacted Human Rights legislation. The ACT Human Rights Act 2004 is important because it requires public authorities to act consistently with human rights. Section 40B (1) states that:

‘It is unlawful for a public authority – (a) to act in a way that is incompatible with a human right; or(b) in making a decision, to fail to give proper consideration to a relevant human right.

In this way, the intent of the Human Rights Act is to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of all people in the ACT. The Act recognises that while human rights belong to everyone they have special significance for our people.On 26 February 2016 new cultural rights were added to the Human Rights Act 2004. Section 27 (2) provides that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples hold distinct cultural rights and must not be denied the right to:

maintain, control, protect and develop our cultural heritage and distinctive spiritual practices, observances, beliefs and teachings; languages and knowledge; and kinship ties; and

to have our material and economic relationships with the land and waters and other resources with which we have a connection under traditional laws and customs recognised and valued.

To make these rights meaningful and effective we must be empowered to use and advocate for them. It is only in using the Human rights Act that we give life to it.

The ACT Human Rights Commission Section 27 (2) Respecting Culture project aims to increase awareness, understanding and use of the Human Rights Act as a practical tool to engage with public

authorities and to hold them to account. It also aims to assist public authorities to comply with their obligations under the Act by operating compatibly with our cultural rights under Section 27 (2)

If you would like to meet about the project or the ACT Human Rights Commission, our contact details are 62052222 or nat.brown@act.gov.au or gabrielle.mckinnon@act.gov.au

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UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

On 13 September 2017 the world will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the UN adopting the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

The Declaration embodies global consensus on Indigenous peoples’ rights and creates a universal framework of minimum standards for survival, dignity and well-being.

It was tremendous achievement by Indigenous peoples to bring so many different groups to consensus and get national governments to sign on to the UNDRIP. Australia signed the Declaration in 2009.

Today articles 25 and 31 of UNDRIP are reflected in the ACT Human Rights Act section 27(2) which recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ distinct cultural rights and their right to maintain, control and protect them.

Only the ACT and Victorian governments acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural rights in law, and the ACT is the only jurisdiction that expressly uses the words from the UNDRIP.

To mark the anniversary of UNDRIP the ACT Human Rights Commission and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body (ATSIEB) bring people together to watch films relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander human rights, such as Putuparri and the Rainmakers and Charlie’s Country in past years. This year they’ll co-host a screening of the award-winning film Zach’s Ceremony at an event at Old Parliament House on 13 September from 5.30-7.30pm.

Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner June Oscar will attend and speak the audience. It’ll also a chance to hear from newly elected ATSIEB Chair Katrina Fanning. And, Sharron Williams, chair of SNAICC, the national voice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children will speak before the screening.

If you’d like to know more about the UNDRIP 10th anniversary event please contact Deb Nesbitt at the ACT Human Rights Commission [deborah.nesbitt@act.gov.au]

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ACT Disability Reference Group Membership

Seeking an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person with disability for the group

The ACT Disability Reference Group (the Reference Group) is seeking members to provide information and advice to the ACT Government on issues affecting people with disabilities in the ACT, which in turn will inform relevant policy development. We are specifically seeking a person from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background with a disability or who has experience caring for a person with disability.

We are looking for people with relevant knowledge and experience, including people with a disability, carers of a person with a disability, and/or people with experience of the disability service system.

The ACT Disability Reference Group is comprised of people who work together in the best interests of people with disability in the ACT. The Reference Group is not a representative body but rather an advisory group who are able to draw upon valued and relevant perspectives and experience.

The DRG currently has a member from an Aboriginal background who is the family carer for a child with disability who is happy to engage with and mentor an incoming member to the group.

If you are interested please contact the secretariat support Nadia McGuire on 6207 9959. We will ask you for a copy of your resume and a few questions that will include:

Why do you want to be on the ACT Disability Reference Group?

What knowledge can you bring to the ACT Disability Reference Group?

What experience do you have with promoting the inclusion of people with disability?

The Reference Group generally meets six times per year for two hours with an expectation of out-of-session preparation and participation in community engagement and sub committees. The role is remunerated and takes into consideration the possibility of people needing to negotiate to be released from other commitments including employment to fully participate.

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ACT Ombudsman

Rachelle Kelly of the ACT Ombudsman’s office is keen to expand her networks, engage with as many people as possible, and raise the profile of the Ombudsman amongst the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community.

The ACT Ombudsman was established in 1989 and is an Officer of the ACT Legislative Assembly. There are seven staff in the ACT Ombudsman Strategy

Team including Policy and Strategy Officer, Rachelle.

The Ombudsman’s primary role is to take complaints in relation to ACT Government agencies. There are some things the Ombudsman cannot deal with including complaints relating to health, disability or young people. These matters can be referred to the ACT Human Rights Commission or other relevant agency. The Ombudsman often encourages people to work through their concerns with the agency itself before making a complaint to our office. The aim in all cases is to consider complaints fairly and transparently and to help agencies improve their services. Agencies may also decide to review their decision, their processes or public information as a result of the complaints process.

The Ombudsman’s office has taken on new functions this year, including in relation to the ACT Reportable Conduct Scheme. The scheme commenced on 1 July 2017 and is an employment-based child protection scheme.

Employers that must notify the Ombudsman of reportable allegations or convictions against employees include:

all ACT directorates health service providers out of home care, kinship and foster care residential care organisations government and non-government schools child care services

education and care service providers, such as after school care.

Under the scheme, an employee is any person engaged by a contract with one of the above employers. It does not matter if this type of employee provides services to children or not, they are still considered under the scheme. A volunteer or a person who is a contractor for one of the above employers is also considered under the scheme but only if they provide services to children.

We would encourage you to talk with your employer about the scheme, visit our website or speak to one of our staff members for more information. The Ombudsman will be holding information sessions in the near future. To register your interest or subscribe to our mailing list, please email ACT@ombudsman.gov.au or visit our website: ombudsman.act.gov.au

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Housing and Homelessness in the ACT

COME AND HAVE YOUR SAYWE ARE INTERESTED IN HEARING WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT

- Reducing homelessness- Strengthening social housing assistance

- Increasing affordable rental- Increasing affordable home ownership

LUNCH PROVIDEDWHEN: 9.30am – 2pm

Wednesday 6 September 2017

WHERE: Aboriginal and Torre Strait Islander Cultural Centre245 Lady Denman Drive, Yarramundi Reach, ACT 2601

TRANSPORT: If you would like to be picked up by the Community Bus please contact 6205 3555 or 131710 to register

If you cannot attend the workshop you can still comment – go online to www.yoursay.act.gov.au

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Streetbeat Youth Outreach ProgramGugan Gulwan Streetbeat Youth Outreach Program (Streetbeat) is a tailored health program to reach vulnerable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth in the ACT region. It operates on Friday and Saturday nights from 7pm - 11pm, targeting meeting places and identified “trouble spots” across the ACT.

Gugan Gulwan Streetbeat Outreach program is unique in its design as the program delivers its support and services to the young people in their chosen venues. Gugan Gulwan Streetbeat Outreach Program is a soft entry point for support for many young people. Our support is non-confrontational, non-judgmental or statutory in nature.

The Gugan Gulwan Streetbeat Outreach Program works collaboratively with Australian Federal Police, St John’s Night Crew, Refuges, Youth Centres and various local night clubs to ensure we are reaching the most vulnerable of our young people. The program is truly an authentic early intervention

diversionary service with Streetbeat Outreach workers distributing health contact information and resources, taking referrals and supporting appropriate diversionary interventions for youth at high risk of being dealt with by police.

A distinct attraction of the Streetbeat Outreach program has been our BBQ trailer and music station; it becomes a central hub of activity with many young people gathering to have some food, enjoy a yarn and listen to their music. In 2017 the introduction and distribution of anti-drinking spiking kits has seen more young women engage with Streetbeat. Over a six-month period over 2500 sexual health information packs were handed out by Streetbeat staff.

Gugan Gulwan Streetbeat Outreach Program welcomes the opportunity to attend local youth orientated events on Friday and Saturday nights. If you are hosting or know of an event that you think could provide benefit to our vulnerable youth, please contact Gugan Gulwan on (02) 6296 8900 or ggyacadmin@gugan-gulwan.com.au

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Marymead Celebrating 50 years

This year Marymead is celebrating 50 years of proudly supporting children and families.

The year has been packed full of events to celebrate, including a Family Fun Day on Sunday 26 February exactly 50 years to the day of Marymead opening its doors in 1967. The celebration continued with a 50th Anniversary Luncheon in June attended by 350 of Marymead’s supporters, community volunteers and corporate partners to celebrate their amazing 50 year history and reflect on where they have come from and their mission going forwards. The luncheon also provided Marymead with the opportunity to acknowledge and thank their corporate partners and volunteer groups.

This year also marks the start of a major redevelopment of Marymead’s original site in Narrabundah, which will include the building of an 84 house retirement village and purpose built Marymead facilities including new adaptable cottages and a centre featuring counseling rooms, family contact spaces and training and education facilities. Most

50th Anniversary luncheon

of the ACT staff have temporarily relocated for two years to the Rheinberger Centre in Yarralumla, with off-site locations for some counseling services and contact services, the mulch Program and accommodation houses.

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Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA) Reconciliation

Action PlanWith the current range of health issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, it is self-evident that those working to promote equality in the wider health sector should also be actively working to shape culture and attitudes within their own organisations. With the launch of our 2017–18 Reconciliation Action Plan, the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA) has taken the time to reflect on our own practices and ensure that we are effectively contributing to realising a vision for reconciliation.

AHHA has been the national voice for public healthcare for 70 years, maintaining its vision for an effective, innovative and sustainable health system where all Australians have equitable access to healthcare of the highest standard. AHHA is the national peak body for public and not-for-profit hospitals, Primary Health Networks, community and primary healthcare services.

Addressing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ health disparities has been a significant focus for AHHA, but we are committed to working harder than ever. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples experience a significantly higher burden of disease and a reduced life expectancy in comparison to other Australians. Sustained comprehensive action is required to address inequities in health outcomes. AHHA aims to support the transformation of the health system to one that provides culturally safe services.

Original Site - 1967 Nuns walking dog

At AHHA, our inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan formally begins our own journey towards reconciliation. We invite those who wish to contribute to our knowledge, learning and activities to engage with us and help us work towards an equitable health system for all Australians.

AHHA’s Reconciliation Action Plan is available on our website at https://ahha.asn.au/governance AHHA will formally launch our Reconciliation Action Plan in Sydney on 18 September with an hour-long event for members and stakeholders. For more information, or to get involved, contact admin@ahha.asn.au.

AHHA website: http://ahha.asn.au/

AHHA RAP (pdf): http://ahha.asn.au/sites/default/files/docs/policy-issue/ahha_reflect_rap_2017-18_final_high_res.pdf

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Funded Swimming Lessons – Lakeside Leisure Centre

Lakeside Leisure Centre has been granted funding through Swimming New South Wales, to assist Indigenous swimmers to participate in structured swimming and water safety programs.

According to Royal life Saving Society New South Wales the 60% of drowning deaths in New South Wales, occurs in the 0-4 year age group.

There has also been research into the benefits that swimming pools play in the community.

Some of the benefits include: Improved school attendance when swimming programs run during school times Fun, fitness and friendship Improved self confidence Whole community involvement – all ages can participate

What Lakeside Leisure Centre can provide for you is: 10 lessons for 30 minutes— 1 lessons per week at the same day and time A Qualified Instructor

The family will need to contribute $50 per child for 10 lessons ($5 per lesson) this will be taken at the time of enrolment

Spaces are limited and will work on a 1st come 1st serve basis

If you are interested please contact reception on

Phone: 02 6293 3122

Email: llc@ymcansw.org.au

Lakeside Leisure Centre is located at:

Corner Anketell Street and Athllon Drive, Greenway, ACT 2900

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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Bus

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Bus is now available to transport you and your family around Canberra and the surrounding regions if you have limited access to other transport options.

How does the bus work?

The Community Bus operates Monday to Friday during business hours. If you need transport in and around Canberra, you can make a booking for the bus to pick you up and drop you off. The mini bus has 12 seats and wheelchair access and can be booked for groups and events. The bus can go as far as Queanbeyan, Yass, Cooma, Goulburn and Braidwood.

How do I book the bus?

To book a trip on the bus simply email your details to communitybus@act.gov.au or call (02) 6205 1116 or 13 17 10. You need to make your booking two days before you want to travel so we can schedule you in.

When making your booking we need the following details:

Address of pick up location Pick up time Address of drop off location How many passengers are catching the bus

The bus will try to take the quickest route to your destination; however it may have to stop for other passengers in different locations. You will receive a confirmation email when your booking is approved.

Who can use the bus?

The Community bus is available to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders living in and around Canberra who do not have easy access to an ACTION bus. We welcome all passengers especially:

Elders in the community Parents with young children who have limited transport alternatives Social groups Sporting teams (by arrangement) People who are isolated and cannot access normal travel options

For further information contact the Flexible Transport Office on (02) 6205 1116 or 13 17 10.

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ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Centre

The ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Centre is a unique piece of Canberra’s history. Originally the temporary home of the National Museum of Australia the site was handed to the ACT Government for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Centre in 2000.

It is a perfect location for hosting events such as meetings, conferences, workshops and other private functions like weddings, promotional stalls, small scale musical performances, and Christmas functions.

There is free onsite parking for 70-80 vehicles which is a bonus. Hire rates start from $206, so if you’re looking for a venue to hold a function, contact the Cultural Centre Manager at ATSICulturalCentre@act.gov.au or phone on 6207 1110.

More info: See website

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Subscribe for regular informationDo you receive regular information and updates through the ACT Indigenous Network? If not, why not subscribe to the distribution list?

The email group was established over 10 years ago, initially for Canberra’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Public Servants to share news, events and general information.

Over the years the membership has grown and now includes national and international affiliates. Members are both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and organisations and non-Indigenous people and organisations with an interest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs.

To subscribe follow this link

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Want to publish something in this newsletter?

If you would like to share a story about yourself, someone you know, or any upcoming project and/or events of interest to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander community, please send your entry to OATSIA@act.gov.au or call 6207 9784.

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