Australian Indigenous Governance Institute

2024 has been a big year for us here at the Australian Indigenous Governance Institute. We have grown in all areas and continue to build our resources, deliver professional governance development and contribute to research with First Nations communities both locally and internationally. As our guiding star, we continue to envisage a future Australia where Indigenous peoples and nations enjoy their right to self-determination and economic development through strong self-governance.

Since 1985, the Aboriginal Health & Medical Research Council (AH&MRC) of New South Wales have been advocating and advising for better provision through community-controlled health services at both state and federal levels. While working closely with Aboriginal Medical Services across the state, they noticed a lack of Aboriginal governance over Aboriginal health research. After identifying this need, they established the AH&MRC Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) in 1996 to guide this work, ensuring health research is for and with the community. AH&MRC was recognised as an outstanding example of effective governance as a finalist in the 2022 Indigenous Governance Awards, hosted in partnership by AIGI and Reconciliation Australia. Analysis and words produced by Rebekah Hatfield & Rachel Tarrant at Ngoodjida Media and Consulting. Photographs are courtesy of Wirrim Media Copyright © Australian Governance Institute 2024. #EffectiveGovernance #HealthResearch #CommunityFocus #AIGI

Exciting news for 2025! 🎉 Our Emerging Directors Program is set to return, continuing its mission to cultivate a strong pipeline of proud and capable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander company directors. 🌟 This program is all about fostering Indigenous governance excellence, offering world-class training, culturally empowering mentoring, and hands-on boardroom experience. Guided by leading Indigenous governance experts, participants will build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in leadership roles while staying grounded in culture. Applications open early 2025 - stay tuned and be part of the future of Indigenous governance! #EmergingDirectors #IndigenousGovernance #IndigenousExcellence #FirstNationsLeadership #AIGI

🌟Read our latest governance story spotlighting the strong governance of Yappera Children's Service! 🌟 Yappera, meaning belonging place, embodies the principles of Belonging, Being, and Becoming - creating a culturally safe and nurturing environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. This latest governance story story highlights how strong Indigenous governance builds community trust and delivers meaningful outcomes for future generations. 📖 Read the full story: https://lnkd.in/gh9ABJvp #IndigenousGovernance #BelongingPlace #CommunityLeadership #AIGI #GovernanceStories #CulturalSafety

At AIGI, we celebrate the strength and resilience of two-way governance - a balance of tradition and modern strategy that empowers our communities to thrive in both worlds. Our Indigenous Governance Toolkit offers resources to support leaders navigating this dual responsibility, rooted in cultural integrity and practical solutions. 🔗 Explore tools and strategies to strengthen governance in your community: https://lnkd.in/esPyfYg9 #TwoWayGovernance #IndigenousLeadership #GovernanceToolkit #AIGI #StrengthInCulture

The Indigenous Governance Awards are more than just a celebration—they build bridges that connect organisations and communities, strengthening relationships and amplifying Indigenous-led solutions. These awards highlight the power of strong governance to bring people together, foster collaboration, and create lasting impact. Explore the stories of this year’s finalists and winners on the new Indigenous Governance Awards page on our website and see how governance is building pathways to a stronger future for all: aigi.org.au/iga Image by Wirrim Media. Featuring AIGI team, Reconciliation Australia staff and awards judge. Taken during the finalists workshop in Meanjin, November 2024. #IndigenousGovernance #ConnectingCommunities #AIGI #GovernanceAwards #IndigenousLeadership

In this edition of Tips from the Toolkit, we explore internal culture – what it is, why it matters, and how to harness it for effective governance. #IndigenousGovernance #InternalCulture #IndigenousLeadership #CapacityBuilding #AIGI

Robe River Kuruma Aboriginal Corporation’s (RRKAC) primary source of funding is mining agreements. Mining royalty payments are held and managed by its subsidiary company, Kuruma Marthudunera Limited (KML). RRKAC and KML work closely together and have a cross-over of directors on their boards. This governance structure facilitates communication between RRKAC and KML, which in turn allows for early risk identification and intervention. This occurred when KML identified a reliance on mining royalty payments as a significant risk to the longevity of the corporation. Payments are dependent on market factors, such as the price of minerals or cessation of mining activities. RRKAC took decisive action to improve financial sustainability and realigned direction under a new 3-year strategic plan informed by the community. RRKAC was recognised as an outstanding example of effective governance as a finalist in the 2018 Indigenous Governance Awards, hosted in partnership by AIGI and Reconciliation Australia. Analysis and text produced by Lara Drieberg. Photographs are courtesy of Jill Mundy. Copyright © Australian Indigenous Governance Institute 2020 #AIGI #IndigenousGovernance #SustainableCommunities #CulturalHeritage #EmpoweringIndigenousVoices

For Indigenous organisations, success isn’t just measured by financial outcomes - it’s about staying true to cultural values. Embedding these values into governance structures ensures decisions are made with the community at heart, honouring traditions while building a sustainable future. Cultural preservation and governance go hand in hand. By aligning financial management with cultural priorities, organisations can: 1. Strengthen connections to community and identity. 2. Foster intergenerational leadership. 3. Ensure long-term social, cultural, and economic well-being. True prosperity is more than profit—it’s about preserving what makes our communities unique and resilient. https://lnkd.in/gqSXjc63 #IndigenousGovernance #CulturalValues #CommunityStrength #EconomicEmpowerment #SelfDetermination #AIGI

📊 Thinking about finances: In Indigenous governance, financial management is not just about numbers—it's about building strong foundations for self-determination and community well-being. Think of it as a story that connects the past, present, and future: 🕰️ Looking Back - Profit and Loss Statement - Statement of Cash Flows These documents reflect how resources were used to support the goals of your community or nation. 📍 Today - Balance Sheet - Statement of Changes in Equity These tools show where your organisation stands now, providing clarity for informed decision-making by leaders, Elders, and board members. 🔮 Looking Forward - Budget A budget is more than a financial plan—it’s a way to align your resources with the aspirations of your people, prioritising what matters most for your community's future. Effective financial management in Indigenous organisations involves: ✅ Transparent policies grounded in cultural values and accountability to your community. ✅ Accurate record-keeping to meet governance and funding requirements while honouring Indigenous Data Sovereignty. ✅ Regular reviews to ensure decisions reflect shared priorities and long-term sustainability. By weaving together traditional knowledge and modern financial practices, Indigenous governance empowers communities to make decisions that support their unique pathways to success. https://lnkd.in/gqSXjc63 #IndigenousGovernance #FinancialManagement #CommunityLeadership #SelfDetermination #AIGI