The Queensland Government and ambassador Johnathan Thurston are calling for dedicated individuals, businesses and organisations across the state striving for effective change and reconciliation, to nominate for the awards.
The award recognises Queensland’s businesses, community organisations, educational institutions, government departments, agencies, and local councils who support Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous individuals, as well as those whose work encourages reconciliation.
Rugby league player Johnathan Thurston says he believes that reconciliation, as well as the valuing, respect and affirmation of all members of society is of high importance.
He also encourages the development of respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, believing it to be the responsibility of all members of society.
The awards program offers a total prize pool of $25,000 across five categories.
With the support of BHP, Australia Post, Koori Mail and ABC Radio Brisbane and Queensland, the awards recognise nominees in business, community, education, partnership, in addition to overall Premier’s Reconciliation Award.
Last year saw a period of growth for the awards, with the addition of new initiatives.
Sports also came into play, with the addition of grassroots reconciliation through sport for young Indigenous women.
Other new initiatives focused on increasing training and employment opportunities for Indigenous employees, encouraging the improvement of young people’s behaviour, and increasing school attendance with the help of role models.
This year marks the 16th year of celebration of reconciliation by the Queensland Reconciliation Awards
Nominations for this year’s awards will close close 5pm, Monday 26 February.
For more information about the Queensland Reconciliation Awards or to submit an online nomination visit www.qld.gov.au/reconciliation.
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