SEVERAL key projects driven by Kaiela Institute, a First Nations-led analysis and policy think tank, have seen positive growth in 2022.
The annual Dungala Kaiela Oration was again delivered on Yorta Yorta Country, at the Rumbalara Football and Netball Club. Keynote speaker Professor Wiremu Doherty, chief executive at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi, a Māori tertiary organisation in Aotearoa/New Zealand, spoke on how Indigenous knowledge can lead, build and enhance economies.
Providing a pathway for students to complete education immersed entirely in Māori for 40 years is having a positive impact of workforce development in New Zealand. KI seek to replicate this foundational basis for the Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence (MCRE) and the Munarra Academy to be built within the Shepparton Sports Precinct.
The MCRE is critical to the Goulburn Murray Regional Prosperity Plan, which seeks to build a thriving First Nations economy to generate new income, opportunities and shared prosperity for the benefit of all people.
“In Shepparton we have been relentless in our desire to make radical changes to extreme disadvantage,” said Paul Briggs OAM, executive chairman of Kaiela Institute.
“Designed by the region, for the region, the Plan marks an historical turning point. it is a watershed moment for our region that promises to restore a thriving First Nations economy. This, in turn will create new productivity and prosperity for everyone.”
“By working in close collaboration with Yorta Yorta and First Nations people, the region can create a thriving economy with circular economic flows building shared prosperity and regional growth.”
The 15-year Plan aims to deliver parity on life expectancy and quality of life for Yorta Yorta people, whilst generate an additional $150M gross regional product (GRP) per annum through economic stimulation; provided by employment and business growth, including both established and upcoming Indigenous-led business initiatives.
The Plan flips how we view and understand the place and role of First Nations people in the regional economy from a prevailing deficit model to a positive and contributory model.
Taking responsibility, the region will share in the value and prosperity generated from a place-based circular economy model, whilst also fostering understanding of, and respect for, the social, cultural and economic contributions of Yorta Yorta and First Nations people.
