Queensland’s Indigenous treaty body is defying the government’s plan to shut it down. 

Queensland's Truth-Telling and Healing Inquiry has resumed work despite the state government’s declared intent to repeal the Path to Treaty Act 2023, which underpins it. Inquiry chair Joshua Creamer says he has fallen into a “frosty” relationship with the state’s new LNP government, receiving limited communication since the announcement of the plan to scrap the inquiry.  

Premier David Crisafulli stated on 31 October that the inquiry process would not proceed, advising its organisers to prepare for closure.  

Mr Creamer says he sought urgent meetings with the Premier, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Fiona Simpson, and other officials but received no clear timeline for discussions. 

“There has been very little communication except for a proposed meeting that was indefinitely postponed,” he said.  

Citing legal obligations under the Act, the inquiry has resumed operations to maintain progress while the legislation remains in place. 

Resource constraints prompted a shift to only accepting online submissions, as conducting in-person truth-telling sessions and hearings requires significant funding. 

Previously, the inquiry met witnesses up to eight times before collecting testimony.  

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said a meeting would occur once the Minister had gathered all necessary information.

“We want to do things sensibly and look at ways we can better invest into our Indigenous communities across Queensland,” he said. 

Ms Simpson confirmed her correspondence with Mr Creamer, outlining an operational plan for closure while awaiting the repeal.  

The inquiry’s online submission portal is open until at least January 2025, allowing individuals, organisations, and government entities to contribute materials for preservation. 

Records will be stored by Queensland State Archives, ensuring a historical legacy.  

Mr Creamer said this phase remains urgent, as the loss of critical testimonies is likely if elderly participants are unable to share their stories. 

“This is the last generation living to share that evidence,” he said.  

Established to investigate the impacts of colonisation in Queensland, the inquiry is a “historic moment”, Mr Creamer said. 

Critics of the repeal argue it jeopardises efforts to document an inclusive history.

“This process has united Queenslanders in the call for an authentic and accurate history of this state,” Mr Creamer said.

The inquiry aims to fulfil its obligations under the Path to Treaty Act while navigating potential closure. 

A final report is planned to consolidate findings and safeguard the narratives shared.

Meanwhile, the Victorian Government and First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria have announced the opening of negotiations for Australia’s first Treaty.

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. CareerSpot News