Carpentaria Collectives
Why it Matters
The Carpentaria Shire Council Indigenous Engagement project addresses the critical need to empower Indigenous communities in the Gulf of Carpentaria, where over 50% of the population is Indigenous. The region’s historical and socio-economic challenges, including low disaster resilience, demand tailored approaches that recognise the unique cultural and governance structures of the Traditional Owners. By fostering stronger engagement with Indigenous groups, this project promotes disaster resilience, economic development, and community capacity building, ensuring that the voices and knowledge of Indigenous peoples are central to the region’s growth and sustainability.
Project Overview
This project, part of the Queensland Connects (Cohort 4) regional entrepreneurship acceleration program, focuses on building an Indigenous Engagement Framework for the Carpentaria Shire Council. In collaboration with QUT and JCU researchers, Traditional Owners, and local stakeholders, the framework is designed to enhance Indigenous participation in local governance and disaster management. The project identified key areas for improvement, such as recognising Indigenous history, enhancing information sharing, and promoting economic opportunities. The framework includes eight strategic recommendations, such as establishing an Indigenous Advisory Committee and creating a Reconciliation Action Plan to guide future engagement and community development efforts in the shire.
Funding/Grants
Queensland Connects program, Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation
Project Team (with links to their profile)
https://research.qut.edu.au/designlab/team/marcus-foth/
https://portfolio.jcu.edu.au/researchers/jim.turnour/
Project Partners (with links to their profile, if any)
James Cook University: https://www.jcu.edu.au
Carpentaria Shire Council: https://www.carpentaria.qld.gov.au
Queensland Government (Queensland Connects): https://advance.qld.gov.au/innovation-in-queensland/innovation-stories/innovative-solutions-unveiled-at-advance-queensland-symposium
