Cassowary Coast Strengthens Commitment to Reconciliation

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Published
2nd June 2025

Cassowary Coast Regional Council has reaffirmed its commitment to reconciliation with the endorsement of three key initiatives at the May 2025 meeting.

Council welcomed the formation of a First Nations Peoples Advisory Committee, endorsed the 2023–2025 Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Outcome Report, and renewed its Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country Policy.

The newly formed Advisory Committee includes 13 members representing Traditional Owner groups, Torres Strait Islander Peoples, and sectors such as health, education, culture, environment, and safety. The committee will provide advice on matters impacting First Nations communities, help guide Council’s RAP commitments and seeks to bridge the equity gap between Australia's First Nations Peoples and all Australians.

Mayor Millwood said, “We’re pleased to support a committee that brings local voices directly to the table and helps shape the future of our region.”

Council also acknowledged the progress made through the 2023–2025 Innovate RAP, with 58 of 76 actions completed. These include stronger partnerships with local First Nations organisations, staff engagement during NAIDOC and Reconciliation Week, and updates to induction programs.

Council’s Executive Team will continue to champion the RAP through to 2027, focusing on building relationships, respect, and opportunities.

To support respectful cultural engagement, Council has also renewed its Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country Policy, first adopted in 2016. The policy outlines when and how Traditional Custodians or Council representatives should provide formal recognition of Country at events and meetings.

“These actions reflect real change and show our ongoing commitment to walking together with respect,” said Mayor Millwood

For further information view the policy here or contact Council at 1300 763 903 or email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.

Picture Caption: Cassowary Coast Indigenous Art Show Celebrates Reconciliation Week 2025