On Friday 3 April 2009 the Australian government, on behalf of Australia’s people, endorsed the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

And top marks to the Rudd government for doing what the Howard government found to be inconsistent with their 1950s vision for Australia!

The question now is -

“How does the Australian government’s recognition of Australia’s First Peoples rights affect local government in Wollongong and the Illawarra?”

We need to hear Koori voices answering that one. What are their needs and how can these needs best be met?

And should WCC Neighbourhood Forums (like Council meetings) begin with an acknowledgement of country?

Meanwhile see:
http://www.jennymacklin.fahcsia.gov.au/internet/jennymacklin.nsf/content/un_declaration_03apr09.htm

and, for all you need to know about the UN DRIP:

http://www.humanrights.gov.au/social_justice/declaration/declaration_QA_2009.html