This representative group would be involved in the development and implementation of government policies that affect the Indigenous community in the ACT.

Following community consultations in 2006 to seek ideas on how such a group would operate, the ACT Government committed to establishing the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body (ATSIEB) — under its own Act.

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body Bill 2007 — which reflects the views and recommendations received during consultations was prepared and released in late 2007 — is still open for comment.

“This Bill is an important step forward for the local indigenous community,” Chief Minister and Minister for Indigenous Affairs Jon Stanhope said.

“The community meetings to be held this week are a last opportunity for people to come and find out more about how the new Elected Body will work.

“We are also encouraging people to provide written comments on the Bill.”

Comments on the Bill will close on 11 February 2008 for introduction into the Assembly in March/April 2008, for debate in April.

To find out more about the proposed legislation or the community meetings, visit www.dhcs.act.gov.au, contact Oliver Kickett on 6205 2507 or email terina.barratt@act.gov.au.

Community meetings will be held:

7 February: 12pm to 2pm, Tuggeranong Community Centre, Cowlishaw Street

8 February: 12pm to 2pm, Woden Senior Citizens Club, Corinna Street & Melrose Drive

10 February: 10am to 2pm, Boomanulla Oval, 34 Goyder Street, Narrabundah