The program is part of an agreement between the Commonwealth and State governments and the Commission. In the most recent delivery of the program Manager Strategy and Engagement Greg Watson and Senior Aboriginal Education and Conciliation Officer Stephen Goodall visited Christmas and Cocos (Keeling) Islands 3-13 September 2024 to provide outreach and information sessions. The sessions included information on discrimination, harassment, victimisation and equal opportunity as well as furthering skills to access rights and meet responsibilities contained within the Act.
On Cocos (Keeling) Island, which included a visit to Home Island, Greg and Stephen met with the Home Island Seniors Group and then with the CEO of the Shire of Cocos (Keeling) Island. The insights gained at these meetings were valuable not only to appreciate different perspectives, but also the shared interest of community members and the Shire leadership in finding ways to enhance the lives of local people. An example of common concern is management of employment practices, especially whether a position is filled by appointment of a local person or external recruitment.
On Christmas Island Greg and Stephen met with community members including those in a variety of leadership positions. They joined officers from other State agencies and members of the Poon Saan Club in a dynamic Q&A session that adopted a ‘speed-dating’ format with small groups rotating around the room. This format allowed participants to ask and get answers to their questions about potential discrimination.
