A new accord between the Queensland Government and 17 First Nations councils marks an important step forward for community leadership and self-determination. Signed at the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Annual Conference on the Gold Coast, the agreement gives Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mayors direct access to state ministers and cabinet to talk about the issues that matter most in their communities.[1]
For many, this moment is about more than politics, it’s about being listened to.
Lockhart River Mayor Wayne Butcher, who helped lead the talks, described the signing as an “historic occasion” that brings hope after years of pushing for a stronger voice at the decision-making table.[2]
This accord also lands at an important time. Relationships between Queensland’s new government and First Nations communities have been tested since the Path to Treaty process was scrapped in 2024. [3] Against that backdrop, this agreement offers a chance to rebuild trust and create real pathways for partnership. It also sets an example that other states could learn from, showing what’s possible when governments make space for community-led leadership and decision-making.
At Murawin, we see this as a powerful step toward the kind of systemic change that has been called for across the country. Our work is built around the belief that First Nations people know what’s best for their own communities. When governments back that knowledge with access, resourcing, and respect, we see better outcomes, not just for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, but for all Australians.
“This accord shows what can happen when listening turns into genuine collaboration, working together, on equal footing, to shape policy that actually works.” – Rebecca McGuinness, CEO, Murawin.
We congratulate the 17 councils and their mayors for the leadership and persistence that made this possible. Their achievement highlights the depth of governance and wisdom that already exists across Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Queensland.
“I congratulate/commend them on this achievement and hope this agreement opens doors for more direct, honest conversations between government and our communities – the kind that leads to real outcomes.” – Rebecca McGuinness, CEO, Murawin.
As an Aboriginal-led organisation, Murawin will keep championing approaches that centre self-determination, cultural integrity, and shared decision-making.
This is what progress looks like when community voices are leading the way.
