MEDIA RELEASE: A First Nations' guide to building strong partnerships

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Community First Development is proud to share our latest publication with you, A First Nations' Approach to Community Development: our community development framework.

Our community development framework results from over 20 years of experience and practice working alongside First Nations' communities. We have learnt many things along the way and will continue to learn as we pride ourselves on being transformative, learning First Nations' led organisation. 

During our 20 years of operating, we have engaged with over 800 communities on over 5,000 projects and registered over 3,000 skilled volunteers to support First Nations communities to achieve their goals. "We have learnt many lessons along the way, including the value of a First Nations', community-led perspective and approach to community development. It is time to celebrate and share what we have learnt," Stephanie Harvey, CEO Community First Development.

As a sneak preview, we have found this is what works when partnering with First Nations communities:

  • Our Understanding - projects are community-driven.

  • Engage and empower - recognition and respect for diverse First Nations' cultures, languages, and values.

  • Connect and build - First Nations' communities' voices are heard and understood throughout the process.

  • Design and deliver - flexible, integrated, and responsive to First Nations communities' diverse needs and priorities.

  • Reflect and celebrate - "two-way learning" is promoted.

Alyawarre woman, Ms Pat Anderson AO, known nationally and internationally as a powerful advocate for the health of Australia's First Peoples, said: 

"It is my view that Community First Development's Community Development Framework is an essential guide in the field of community development, both in Australia and internationally. This practical and ethical guide is the culmination of conversations shared, relationships nurtured, and activities facilitated. I encourage you to read and reflect on this guide and consider how your initiatives can respect, promote, and fulfil the right to self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples."

The Community Development framework is a must-read, with practical examples and guidance delivered through stories of strong communities achieving their goals. The community development framework will give readers insight into the purposeful journey of Community First Development to ensure that First Nations' communities' expertise and their right to self-determination are at the forefront of any project undertaken in their communities.

To learn more, join our webinar with special guest Ms Pat Anderson AO, Stephanie Harvey, CEO, regional staff and representatives from two communities: 

Wednesday, 8 September 2021, 11 am – 12 pm AEST.

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