The recent National Gathering has stirred significant controversy among First Nations delegates regarding the establishment of a new national entity. Eddy Synot, leading Wamba Wamba lawyer and member of the Uluru Dialogue, shared his worry. He opened the door for more representation and more inclusivity of First Nations voices at the summit. Synot rallied behind the Yes vote during the recent referendum. He was missing in action at this past week’s Climate Ambition Summit in Brisbane.
The third National Gathering theme was building the groundwork for a national representative body. It looked at various governance models, thanks to a focus on some of these examples from international speakers. As laudable as this idea was, it led many participants—including Synot—to complain that the convening suffered greatly by not having comprehensive representation. This was his way of expressing that not all First Nations people got a voice at this very important event.
Concerns Over Representation
Eddy Synot shared his concerns that the National Gathering would fail to represent the voices of all First Nations people. He reiterated the fact that only a small fraction of attendees—that mainly being representatives from Prescribed Body Corporates (PBCs)—were able to attend.
“All of that is to say, I believe it supports my point that it’s not representative or authoritative.” – Eddy Synot
During her presentation, Synot pointed out that the Indigenous community in Australia is large, with an estimated population of 870,000. He continued, saying an event with a limited 350-person attendance doesn’t represent Indigenous leaders across the board.
“There would have been 350 people there, we’ve got an Indigenous population of 870,000, we’ve got to have a bigger forum with more Indigenous voices so we can map out this plan properly.” – Mr Ah Mat
He noted that many people came to the event without signing up in advance. This undermines the explicit conditions laid out by the Council of First Nations. This was even more alarming given the previous question, as it called into further question whose voices were actually being represented at the event.
The Role of Land Councils
Eddy Synot’s background as a member of the local Land Council in Deniliquin lends weight to his observations about the gathering’s composition. As an example, he noted the participation of Land Council leaders from New South Wales. Their involvement was only from the same central agency types that usually show up to these conversations.
“I don’t know where they had attendees or not, but I do know other Land Council bodies from NSW were in attendance — but only limited and the usual people that are involved in these type of things.” – Eddy Synot
The National Gathering organisers wanted to see all PBCs covered by the Native Title Act. They further wanted to allow in anyone purporting to represent a First Nation or clan. All of the participants raised doubts as to whether this inclusion was truly embodied.
“It’s about Traditional Owners who have got together to rep their country whichever way.” – Tony McAvoy SC
One of the clarion concerns expressed by Indigenous leaders is the need to ensure that all voices are included. They want these voices to be heard in conversations that dictate their futures.
The Debate Over a New National Entity
As debates continue about the proposed new national entity for First Nations representation, opinions among Indigenous leaders remain divided. Yet, many of our leaders convey doubt about the need for and ability of this entity to work.
“If it’s not in our constitution, what different powers would [the body] have that the Land Councils have?” – Mr Ah Mat
Others contend that while exploring new governance models is essential, the process must involve more extensive consultation with Indigenous communities across Australia.
“Everybody else’s ideas is just as valid as our own … it’s only through hearing from everyone’s ideas, thinking about it and thrashing it out, that we’re going to get to answers that represent all of our views.” – Tony McAvoy SC
In fact, Synot himself finally confessed that he did not apply as an individual to come to the powwow. In addition, he challenged his selection on the merit of being eligible under the stated criteria.
“But I also didn’t apply as an individual … not sure I would’ve been eligible based on their criteria either, more broadly.” – Eddy Synot
This ongoing discourse highlights the complexities surrounding First Nations representation and governance in Australia as voices from various regions continue to call for more inclusive forums that accurately reflect their diverse perspectives.
