Ipswich, which is known traditionally in the Yugara/Yagara language as Tulmur, has been home to Aboriginal people since before the beginnings of recorded European arrival. Aboriginal peoples owned, had sovereignty over and cultivated the lands, waters, flora and fauna of Ipswich. Aboriginal peoples mapped the terrain and the stars, made laws and held Government and maintained their connection to their Country through song, dance, language and stories. For countless generations, leaders and Elders made decisions for the present and future of their communities, the natural environment and the generations to come.
Ipswich City Council is committed to increasing opportunities for engagement and participation, appropriately acknowledging Aboriginal custodianship of Country and recognising the significance of Aboriginal culture in Ipswich, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures throughout Australia.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Engagement Guide has been developed by Ipswich City Council as a tool to assist with initiating and improving engagement between council, our Traditional Owners and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities.
Council has three objectives in developing and endorsing the engagement guide:
Council endorsed The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Engagement Guide at the Council Ordinary Meeting held on 12 December 2024.
Link to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Engagement Guide:-
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Engagement Guide
Link to Shape Your Ipswich Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Engagement:-
https://www.shapeyouripswich.com.au/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-engagement-guide