Liverpool City Council has signed a deed of agreement with the local Aboriginal Land council which acknowledges the land council as a representative of traditional custodians of the land.
Council says it has previously worked closely with Gandangara LALC on a number initiatives to support First Nations people in the LGA, and the deed formalises their partnership.
Previously, Council and GLALC have partnered on community events and activities around Sorry Day, the National Apology and NAIDOC Week.
The two bodies also hold regular conversations on initiatives such as place naming, public art, and considering First Nations voices in strategic planning and Council policy positions.
The agreement will also ensure collaboration between Council and GLALC can be better managed and monitored, Mayor Ned Mannoun says.
He described the relationship between Council and GLALC as “complex and multifaceted”, involving various departments across both organisations.
“The scope of Council projects and initiatives which require input from Councillors and GLALC is broad and diverse, encompassing every area of Council’s operations,” Cr Mannoun said in a statement.
He said the principles underpinning the deed include “that both organisations are treated and valued equally and GLALC is acknowledged as the statutory representative of the Traditional Custodians of the land”.
The deed was signed by Cr Ned Mannoun and Council CEO John Ajaka on behalf of the Council while Land Council Chairman Tony Scholes and Land Council CEO Melissa Williams signed on behalf of GLALC.
The agreement will enable both organisations to advance a partnership based on protecting and improving shared lands and heritage, Dr Williams said
“We now go forward, together, in a genuine partnership that encourages shared cultures and joint projects,” she said.
Council says it aims to continue to work with GLALC on improving employment, education and economic outcomes for First Nations people and businesses, giving them a voice in Council projects and developments and celebrating First Nations culture and heritage.
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