IPSWICH residents are being encouraged to help shape the city’s future relationship with First Nations communities as consultation begins on the next City of Ipswich Indigenous Accord.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the consultation was an opportunity for the community to ensure the accord reflected the aspirations, priorities and lived experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the city.
The new accord will provide the framework for Council’s ongoing co-operation, collaboration and partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples while guiding its commitment to reconciliation and improved community outcomes.
According to Council, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make up about 5.5 per cent of Ipswich’s population, higher than both the Queensland and Australian averages. The city is recognised as the traditional lands and waters of the Jagera, Yuggera and Ugarapul peoples of the Yugara/Yagara Language Group.
The Indigenous Accord has guided Council’s relationship with First Nations communities since 1999 and has helped deliver several significant projects, including the Indigenous Soldiers Memorial at Ipswich RSL, and the Queens Park Ceremonial, Healing and Remembrance Place.
Council says the updated accord will build on the achievements of the 2020-2025 plan while listing priorities for the next five years.
Residents can provide feedback through the Shape Your Ipswich engagement platform, where consultation on the Indigenous Accord is currently open.
