More than 80 Aboriginal people from across Victoria have joined together for the first ever statewide gathering of Local Indigenous Networks (LINs).
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Natalie Hutchins, met the gathering as they work to develop a five year plan to ensure Aboriginal people in Victoria have a strong voice at the local level.
LINs were first established under the Bracks Government to take an active part in strengthening Victoria’s Aboriginal communities.
The Networks are made up of Aboriginal community members, who work together to identify local issues and develop priorities and plans for the future.
The Andrews Labor Government recognises the importance of LINs in providing a voice for their community and reflects the Government’s commitment to seeing Aboriginal people at the centre of decision making.
The activities of 39 LINs operating across Victoria include:
- increasing youth participation
- supporting local initiatives such as men’s groups and homework centres
- building relationships with government service providers and organisations
- advancing cultural strengthening projects.
The three-day gathering runs from 29 April – 1 May.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Natalie Hutchins
“This first gathering of the 39 Local Indigenous Networks is a significant milestone in ensuring Aboriginal people have a strong voice to affect local change.”
“I’m dedicated to working alongside Aboriginal people in closing the gap. The work of Local Indigenous Networks is an important step towards achieving this goal.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020