Yarra Ranges was the first Local Government in Victoria to employ an Aboriginal Community Development Officer.
“The Shire has a significant Koori community of 750 people and the appointment of Joy Murphy has greatly enhanced the ability of the Indigenous community to interact with Council and access services,” said Terry Wilkinson, Manager Community Services.
Council has also established an Aboriginal Consultation Committee comprising Councillors, Council officers and members of the Indigenous community.
When State Government funding was withdrawn, Council retained Joy Murphy’s position seeing it as having a valuable role to play in the reconciliation process.
Terry Wilkinson said that the Koori community is very much part of the cultural heritage of the area, and it is important to recognise particular needs, including health and education.
She said the focus has changed from developing policy to a community development function which is working extremely well.
Reflecting Yarra Ranges’ strong commitment to Indigenous issues, it was the first Council in Victoria to release a ‘sorry’ statement.
For further information contact Terry Wilkinson, telephone 1300 368 333.
