News
29 April, 2024
Truth-telling and healing inquiry appointments announced
The Queensland Government today announced the members of its Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry and First Nations Treaty Institute following an independent recruitment process.
Minister for Treaty Leeanne Enoch said experienced barrister Joshua Creamer, a Waanyi and Kalkadoon man with strong ties to north-west Queensland, has been appointed Chair of the Inquiry. Creamer, who specialises in human rights, class actions and native title, was previously named National Indigenous Legal Professional of the Year and has served on the Board of Legal Aid Queensland and as President of the Indigenous Lawyers Association of Queensland.
The Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry will comprise six members, including Creamer, The Honourable Roslyn Atkinson AO, Cheryl Buchanan, Ivan Ingram and Vonda Malone. Their role is to guide efforts to address historical and ongoing injustices and to facilitate healing among affected communities.
In addition, the First Nations Treaty Institute Council has been formed with ten members who bring extensive experience and connections to support the path to treaty. The council includes Albert Bowie, Seleena Blackley, Professor Valerie Cooms, Michelle Deshong, Dr Janine Gertz, Dr Tracey Harbour, Associate Professor Phillip Mills OAM, Professor Cindy Shannon AM, David Saylor and Ivy Trevallion.
The government’s move comes as the Path to Treaty Act 2023 was proclaimed this week, following its passage at the Cairns regional parliament on 10 May 2023 with bipartisan support. The legislation marks a significant step forward in addressing the rights and interests of Queensland’s First Nations peoples, laying the groundwork for further progress in treaty negotiations and truth-telling initiatives.
