Council
5 December, 2025
Aboriginal engagement continues
MOYNE Shire Council has completed the first year of its Aboriginal Engagement and Partnership Plan (AEPP).
This plan continues to strengthen relationships with Traditional Owners and embeds cultural awareness across council operations.
Adopted in June 2024, the AEPP provides a practical roadmap for respectful partnership with Aboriginal organisations and follows the Victorian Aboriginal & Local Government Strategy.
The plan commits council to regular reporting, capability building, and continuous improvement.
Mayor Cr Jordan Lockett said the first year reflects meaningful progress and council’s continuing commitment to reconciliation.
“We are listening, learning, and working alongside Traditional Owners, Aboriginal organisations and our First Nations community,” Cr Lockett said.
“This work is built on respect, trust, and shared priorities - and it’s only the beginning.”
Of the highlights over the past 12 months, council has recorded 79 engagements with First Nations stakeholders across programs, services, and events.
Key achievements included renaming Lubra Creek to Thanampool Thookay Poorang (endorsed with Elders and the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation) and the Framlingham Emergency Services Expo (delivered in partnership with Kirrae Health, Framlingham Trust, and emergency agencies).
Over the past year council also expanded early years and maternal and child health engagement (working with Kirrae and Gunditjmara Health Services).
Among council-wide cultural capability initiatives were Treaty and Native Title briefings, cultural safety training and professional development).
Council also worked to ensure Kirrae Health input into the council child safe strategy and participated in NAIDOC celebrations, the Walk for Truth in Port Fairy, and an On Country tour with Elder Uncle Rob Lowe.
Council now plans to establish an AEPP Working Group in 2026 to strengthen internal coordination and guide ongoing implementation.
Delivery of the plan is funded through existing operational budgets, with external support sought for targeted initiatives.
A mid-term review is scheduled for 2026 to assess progress and guide future priorities.
“This work is relational, not transactional,” Cr Lockett said.
“We remain committed to learning, improving, and walking respectfully with Aboriginal communities in our shire, Wurruk.”
