Gunawuna Jungai has issued an urgent call to both State and Federal Governments: it’s time to deliver on promises made under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.

This plea comes in response to the recent findings by the Productivity Commission, which revealed significant shortcomings in meeting commitments outlined in the agreement.

The Commission’s report highlights a widespread failure among governments, including the Commonwealth, to uphold their promises under the National Agreement.

Progress in implementing the agreement’s reforms has been deemed “weak,” with minimal improvements observed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Central to the National Agreement is the recognition of the need for adequate funding to support Indigenous organisations in formal partnerships with governments.

Gunawuna Jungai Chairperson and respected Doomadgee Elder Barry Walden emphasised the critical importance of securing sufficient funding, particularly for initiatives like the Place-Based Partnership in Doomadgee, to foster sustainable and effective partnerships.

Mr Walden said any genuine partnerships created needed to be sustained with adequate funding.

“Our community deserves meaningful partnerships backed by adequate funding to drive positive change and uplift our people,” he said.

“True partnership between Indigenous communities and governments is not just a goal, it’s a necessity for realising our aspirations for self-determination and prosperity.

“Gunawuna Jungai stands as a beacon of hope for Doomadgee, advocating tirelessly for the resources and support needed to address the challenges we face.

“Let us harness the wisdom of our elders and the resilience of our people to forge a path of empowerment, inclusivity, and equity for generations to come.”

Mr Walden has called upon all levels of government to honour their commitments under the National Agreement, stressing that true partnership is essential for realising Indigenous self-determination and success.

Doomadgee, chosen as the Queensland site for a Place-Based Partnership, underscores the significance of community-led initiatives in addressing disparities.

Gunawuna Jungai, endorsed by the Doomadgee Aboriginal Shire Council, serves as the community-controlled entity representing Doomadgee, advocating for adequate resources to support meaningful shared decision-making.

Gunawuna Jungai CEO Kieran Smith highlighted the importance of investing in the capability of Indigenous partners for successful partnerships.

“Without a genuine commitment to funding and capacity-building, these partnerships risk falling short of their transformative potential,” he said.

“Securing adequate funding for Gunawuna Jungai is paramount for fostering genuine progress and empowerment within the community.

“Investing in the capability and capacity of Indigenous partners is not just a financial commitment but a moral imperative for achieving lasting change and self-determination.

“Gunawuna Jungai stands ready to lead the way in strengthening our community with the necessary support from both levels of government and to ensure that Indigenous voices are heard and respected in the pursuit of genuine partnership.”

In embracing the wisdom of our elders and the spirit of true partnership, let us commit to a path of change, inclusivity, and equity – the time for action is now.

Let us invest in our shared future and ensure that Gunawuna Jungai and the Doomadgee community have the resources needed to lead the way.