Where we are up to
The Koori Engagement and Consultation (KEC) Framework has been finalised and endorsed by the Courts Koori Committee in June 2022. The Dhumba Murmuk Djerring (DMD) Unit is now developing a communications and implementation strategy for this framework.
The KEC is a key action of the Court Services Victoria (CSV) Strategic Plan and is aligned to the CSV Self-determination Plan in ensuring a community-led approach to Koori Programs and Initiatives.
This KEC has been established through the direct input of Koori Staff, Elders and Respected Persons and community. This document also sets out the importance of internal engagement and consultation with Koori staff who are employed to provide cultural insight and expertise. At CSV we are extremely fortunate to have a wealth of cultural knowledge amongst the Koori staff network, along with access to 70 Elders and Respected Persons of the County, Magistrates’, and Children’s Koori Courts. This framework has been developed as a foundation to increase workplace cultural safety practices through collaboration, with a strong focus on sustainable and comprehensive engagement with Koori staff and stakeholders.
The Victorian courts and VCAT are committed to supporting the principles of engagement and inclusiveness by making courts, tribunals, and CSV facilities more accessible, encouraging and promoting active Koori participation and forming collaborative partnerships in all stages of the policy process, including design, delivery and monitoring and evaluation. The framework will support CSV to achieve meaningful and sustained relationships with the Victorian Koori Community.
A comprehensive cultural awareness program is being implemented across the whole of Court Services Victoria to include Cultural Awareness Training for all staff, managers training, HR training and Judicial based programs.