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Agenda Copy

Bridging systemic gaps through transformative approaches to reconciliation and justice for First Nations communities

Clinton Bennell

Strategy, Policy and Partnership Lead
First Nations Healing

Lukas Williams, is a national motivational speaker, entrepreneur, Indigenous health advocate, educator and facilitator with 15 years’ experience in the field of social emotional and cultural well-being

  • Outcomes from my lived experience that have transformed my life
  • How to apply strength-based approaches in justice reform for First Nations individual and communities
  • Identifying and leveraging existing community strengths to foster resilience and self-determination and healing

Lukas Williams

Founder
Gaa’na Healing

  • How to collaborate with local stakeholders and community members in the planning and execution of programs
  • Designing programs that are culturally relevant and tailored to the specific needs of the community
  • Implementing strategies for securing funding and resources necessary for program implementation and sustainability

Zoe Upton

Zoe Upton

Metro Member
First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria

10:20 Morning refreshments
  • Using Indigenous research methodologies to empower children in youth detention centres to identify why social and emotional wellbeing needs are important to them and to advocate for systemic change
  • Building relationships over time to ensure meaningful representation of diverse First Nations voices
  • Showcasing the power of stories to influence community narratives about First Nations children in the justice system

Kate Bjur

Executive Director – Advocacy and Research
Peak Care – QLD

Rebecca Hird Fletcher

Vice Chancellor’s Indigenous Pre-Doctoral Research Fellow
RMIT University

11:30 Mindfulness session
  • How to develop and implement restorative programs for stronger communities
  • Developing strategies to prioritise governance for Indigenous empowerment
  • Focusing on cultural healing as a foundation

Rachel Harris

National First Nations Strategy and Impact Lead
NEAMI National

12:20 Networking luncheon
  • Examining different rehabilitation models and its effectiveness in reducing recidivism
  • Analysing the impact of punitive measures versus supportive interventions on individual behaviour especially in children with trauma.
  • What does an institutionalised/recidivist Indigenous person suffering the effects of childhood trauma look like?

Barbara O’Neill

Director Yerin Program
Kurbingui Burdekin Association

  • Weaving in cultural practices, values and traditions that influence Indigenous legal systems in courts
  • Incorporating restorative justice principles that recognise traditional knowledge and adapt legal procedures to be more inclusive and respectful of Indigenous perspectives
  • Exploring reforms that would allow for greater collaboration and mutual recognition between Western and Indigenous legal practices

Barbara O’Neill

Director Yerin Program
Burdekin Association

John Lawrence

John B. Lawrence SC

Barrister
James Muirhead Chambers

2:40 Afternoon refreshments

In this workshop, attendees will learn how to develop and implement culturally appropriate services for First Nations people in prison, focusing on the importance of maintaining cultural identity and connection during incarceration and post release. Participants will explore the critical role of collaboration among correctional institutions, Indigenous organisations and community groups to ensure a holistic approach to support in prisons.

Attendees will also gain insights into tailored programs that honour cultural practices, promote mental well-being and facilitate community reintegration. The workshop will emphasise restorative practices that empower individuals to reconnect with their heritage and strengthen their identity.

Gain strategies to:

  • Address the unique cultural needs of First Nations individuals in prison and foster a sense of belonging and identity
  • Develop programs that provide access to cultural practices, including ceremonies, language, and community connections
  • Create pathways for post release support that prioritise cultural reintegration and community engagement
  • Advocate for policy and practice changes that promote the inclusion of First Nations perspectives in a correctional environment.

Terina King

Manager – Transitional Indigenous Service
Community Restorative Centre

Anthony Hayward

Anthony Hayward

Transition Worker
Community Restorative Centre

4:10 Harmony Circle

Participants will come together to yarn and share their thoughts and reflections on the day’s discussions and activities. This informal gathering encourages open dialogue and mutual learning, allowing everyone to voice their perspectives and insights.

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