This evening I was invited to participate in a discussion surrounding reconciliation and the role of local government. The panel included several aboriginal elders, business entrepreneurs and departmental officials.

With indigenous life expectancy being 20 years less than other Australians, there is a clear need to address disadvantage and to actively engage indigenous Australians that reside within Maroondah. Local government has a role to play through supporting organisations such as the Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place, well as health and educational service providers.

Most importantly, as a council we need to support the current proposed Indigenous Policy and ensure that the items contained within the policy are actively implemented. Committees such as the Maroondah Partners in Health, Safety and Wellbeing should also provide an opportunity to allow networking between relevant organisations and to ensure a focus on service outcomes and not bureaucracy.