SHIRE OF BROOME TO ESTABLISH INDIGENOUS REFERENCE GROUP

BY ASAD KHAN

The Shire of Broome will establish an Indigenous Reference Group to enhance community engagement and ensure greater consultation with Traditional Owners and Indigenous stakeholders, particularly in development matters.

The decision follows a council motion aimed at strengthening dialogue and fostering more inclusive decision-making processes.

The motion, however, was not unanimously supported, with Councillors Desiree Male, Mel Virgo, Chris Mitchell, and Peter Taylor opposing the initiative.

Despite the opposition, the council moved forward with the plan, recognising the need for stronger relationships and clearer communication with Aboriginal communities.

Shire President Chris Mitchell stated that the formation of the group would help ensure that the council makes well-informed decisions by working closely with Aboriginal community members.

“Our whole role is to try and make sure we communicate with as many people as possible when we're making major decisions on developments and all sorts of things,”

“So, this is just another step towards maintaining strong communication with the community.”

The establishment of the Indigenous Reference Group is expected to provide a structured platform for Aboriginal voices in local governance, fostering stronger relationships and ensuring Indigenous perspectives are considered in future planning and decision-making.

The group will serve as a formal advisory body, allowing for continuous dialogue between the council and Indigenous representatives on key community matters.

Local Indigenous leaders have welcomed the move, stating that consistent consultation is essential in preserving cultural heritage and ensuring that development aligns with community values.

Traditional Owners have long advocated for a greater say in local government decisions that impact land, heritage sites, and social services.

The Indigenous Reference Group will also focus on broader issues, including environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and the recognition of Aboriginal heritage within Broome’s urban planning.

It is expected to play a key role in advising on projects such as land developments, infrastructure expansion, and tourism initiatives.

Community members have expressed both support and concern regarding the initiative. Some believe it is a step in the right direction, reinforcing the importance of Indigenous voices in decision-making.

Others, however, question how effective the group will be in influencing council decisions and whether its recommendations will be acted upon.

The Shire of Broome has yet to release specific details on how members of the Indigenous Reference Group will be selected, but it is expected that representatives will include Traditional Owners, Elders, and other key Indigenous stakeholders from the region.

The council will likely outline the nomination and selection process in the coming weeks.

As the group is formed, its success will largely depend on how effectively it can bridge the gap between Indigenous communities and local government.

Many in the community hope it will lead to tangible outcomes that benefit both the Indigenous and wider Broome community, fostering a more inclusive and culturally respectful governance framework.

Listen to the Ngaarda Media’s Asad Khan speak with Shire President Chris Mitchell: