National talks for the Wiyi Yani U Thangani (Women’s Voices) project begin in Victoria

The first in a series of community visits for the Wiyi Yani U Thangani (Women’s Voices) project will begin in Victoria next week.

The Wiyi Yani U Thangani project is being led by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner June Oscar AO to hear from Indigenous women and girls around the country.

“We’re looking forward to starting our national talks in the regional city of Mildura in north-west Victoria on Monday. We’ll be heading to Melbourne on Wednesday and will continue throughout the year, visiting more than 30 locations.

“This is very much about creating a space for women and girls to raise the issues that are of priority and concern and to hear about their strengths and aspirations.  

“From our remote communities to our urban centres, I hope to highlight the diversity that exists among us, as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls,” Commissioner Oscar said.

The Wiyi Yani U Thangani project will build on the legacy of the Women’s Business report of 1986, which was the first and last time national consultations were held with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.

“More than 30 years on, we have a great opportunity to elevate the needs and voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls in the national policy landscape.

“I strongly encourage all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls to come together and take part in this important project.

“I want to hear about your ideas, your challenges and your hopes for the future. Together, we will raise our voices as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls and together we will deliver a message to government that demands to be heard.

“Your valuable contribution will help identify key challenges and priorities facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and girls and help influence positive change for our children and the future generations.

Please note: Wiyi Yani U Thangani, means Women’s Voices in Commissioner June Oscar’s Bunuba language.

Find out more about the project at http://wiyiyaniuthangani.humanrights.gov.au

Media contact: Lindy Kerin 0430 366 529