Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mayors, CEOs and councillors have joined Queensland Ministers to discuss financial stability, constitutional recognition and the upcoming Federal election at the Indigenous Leaders Forum in Cairns this week.

Palm Island Mayor and member of LGAQ Policy Executive Cr Alf Lacey said that the financial sustainability of councils would be a critical issue discussed by attendees.

“The presence of the Minister for Local Government will give us a good opportunity to understand the roll backs made by the State which impact indigenous councils,” he said.

“We’ll also be hearing from Northern Territory local councils who will offer insights and ideas based on their experience dealing with challenges like amalgamation”.

Local Government Association of Queensland President, Cr Margaret de Wit, said that the forum was an important opportunity for the state’s 16 Indigenous councils to speak directly to the State Government on shared issues.

“Indigenous councillors and mayors have the best understanding of the needs of their communities,” she said.

“State and Federal governments should be looking to council feedback to ensure the delivery of the best possible infrastructure and services for indigenous communities.”