Expression of Interest for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee

Join Our Advisory Committee

We are seeking expressions of interest from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members to join our Advisory Committee for the 2026-2027 term. This is an opportunity to help shape Council's policies, programs, and services that affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in our area.

Acknowledgement of Country

Georges River Council acknowledges the Bidjigal people of the Eora Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters and sky in the Georges River area. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who live, work and meet on these lands.

About the Advisory Committee

The Georges River Council Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee provides a vital link between Council and the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, respecting their right to self-determination and community empowerment.

The Advisory Committee was established in 2023 and includes Bidjigal Traditional Custodians, representatives of the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council, Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation, the Uluru Statement from the Heart, local Elders, community workers and residents. Together, they raise and provide guidance on issues important to the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in the Georges River area.

What They Do

The Advisory Committee provides Council with direction and advice on:

• Strategic priorities outlined in Council's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Strategy 2025-2030
• Emerging opportunities and projects
• Council programs, policies, services, facilities, and initiatives
• Issues of concern to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities at a local level

They help ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge, experience, culture and values are considered, respected and included throughout every stage of Council's work. This includes guiding and advising Council on the design, development and implementation of all Council activities that relate to the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

Who can apply?

Membership is open to:

• Bidjigal Traditional Custodians
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents of Georges River
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with other connections to Georges River, such as:
  • Historical connection to the area
  • Working in the Georges River local government area

We particularly welcome applications from people representing diverse experiences and perspectives, including young people, Elders, community workers, and residents.

What's Involved?

Meeting Commitment

• Meetings are currently held once each month
• The 2026-2027 Advisory Committee will decide on the preferred meeting frequency and schedule
• Meetings are usually held at Georges River Council Civic Centre (Corner McMahon and Dora Streets, Hurstville) with the option to attend online

Term Length

• Members are appointed for a term of two years (January 2026 to December 2027)
• Membership is voluntary and limited to no more than two consecutive terms, at Council's discretion

Your Role

• Attend monthly meetings and contribute to discussions
• Help ensure cultural protocols are respected in Council's work
• Provide advice and feedback on Council policies, plans, and projects
• Raise issues important to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
• Support the implementation of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Strategy

Your Application

When you apply, you'll be asked to tell us about:

1. Your connection to Georges River - your community background and any experience living or working in the area
2. Why you want to join - what motivates you to be part of the Advisory Committee
3. Important issues - what you think are the most important issues faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Georges River
4. Council's role - what steps you think Council could take to address these issues
5. Access needs - any requirements that will help you participate in meetings
6. Supporting documents - any additional information you'd like to provide

Complete your application online: Register your interest here | Your Say Georges River

Download a hard copy application: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee Expression of Interest hard copy form

If you are completing a hard copy form, please quote 'YOUR SAY SF25/7370 EOI Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee' and return it to:

Do you need assistance reading and accessing this page?

For a free interpreter call us via the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 131 450

If you have a hearing or speech impairment, please contact the National Relay Service:

• Voice Relay number: 1300 555 727
• TTY number: 133 677

Featured artwork

Community by Aunty Annette Webb.

Annette Webb is a proud Dunghetti woman born in Sydney. Her artwork descends from her Ancestors overlooking the land, lakes and rivers to protect and honour the traditional way of life today.