This year the theme for NAIDOC week is ‘Always was, Always Will Be’. This theme grounds us and reminds us of the inalienable truth that First Nation’s Peoples have cared for this country and its forests for over 65,000 years. In a year marked by instability and turbulence it has never been clearer the wisdom from First Nations People is more crucial than ever.
At FSC we prioritise the rights of First Nations People in our approach to responsible forest management. To ensure the spirit of this commitment is upheld and authentically implemented, FSCA convened an Indigenous Working Group (IWG) in 2014 to balance the need for representation as well as expert experience and knowledge on issues related to First Nations peoples.
The IWG has provided invaluable guidance in our responsible forest management practises. The first major achievement of the IWG was to support the successful development of the Australia National Forest Stewardship Standard.
Meaningful consultation with Indigenous communities across Australia is carried out regrading FSCV and the standard. Following the completion of the standard we are proud to state the IWG’s focus has evolved to include existing community aspirations that align with FSC’s values.
These are:
- Increase Indigenous engagement in the management of Australia’s forests as well as the forest and wood products sector.
- Forest management that delivers economic, social, cultural, and environmental benefits to local First Nations Peoples’ communities.
- Utilisation and transfer of traditional ecological and cultural knowledge from the old to the young.
As we move into 2021, we look forward to continuing to receiving guidance and wisdom from the First Nation’s People. In consultation we will develop an Indigenous Governance Structure that considers the cultural authority from each region.
We encourage all members, certificate holders, supporters, and stakeholders to mark this occasion and engage in local events that are occurring around the country.
For more information, please visit www.naidoc.org.au, download the attached poster and support #NAIDOCWeek.