Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies’ (AIATSIS) Chairperson Professor Mick Dodson AM today welcomed the passing of amendments to the AIATSIS Act 1989.
“These changes to the AIATSIS Act represent a renewed purpose for this fifty-year-old institution, with its proud history of promoting, preserving and understanding Indigenous peoples’ heritage and culture,” Professor Dodson said.
“After our establishment in 1964, our legislation was last updated in 1989. This reform updates our governance for the twenty-first century. It affirms the ongoing importance of AIATSIS’ unique role in ensuring Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, heritage and culture is part of our national story, now and in the future.”
“Our new functions recognise the tremendous value of the collection AIATSIS has built, putting the development, preservation, understanding and sharing of this treasure at the heart of our mission.
“Our leadership in research, ethical practice and the use of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural collections, our collaborative methods and our role as an advisor to the Government on Indigenous heritage and culture are also recognised and confirmed.
“Changes to our governance arrangements preserve the principle of Indigenous leadership through an Indigenous majority on the AIATSIS governing Council, essential for our custodianship of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and memory.
“The value of our members is recognised through their continuing role in electing four of our nine Councillors, while providing a specific focus on gender representation and achieving the best balance of skills across the members of Council.
“The AIATSIS Council and management has worked closely with Minister Birmingham, Minister Pyne before him, and the Department of Education and Training in the development of these amendments.
“My colleagues and I appreciate the collaborative and constructive approach each of them has taken. We have been active in preparing for these changes, and look forward to implementing them with the ongoing support of the Government.”
Media release.
More information
Read the Minister for Education and Training's media release.
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