Indian Council of Australia Queensland Launches First Nations Advisory Board
Indian Council of Australia Queensland Launches First Nations Advisory Board
The Indian Council of Australia Queensland (ICAQ) is proud to announce the formation of its First Nations Advisory Board, a landmark initiative to strengthen partnerships between the Indian diaspora and Australia’s First Nations peoples.
Although ICAQ currently operates in Queensland, its ambitions are national. The establishment of this Advisory Board reflects its vision to ensure Indigenous voices and leadership are central as the organisation expands across Australia.
The Advisory Board is made up of highly respected Indigenous leaders and advocates:
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John Sayers – An Aboriginal elder of the Bundawang (Yuin) Mob and founder of 18fifty3 Group, John has dedicated decades to mentoring Indigenous youth, developing employment pathways, and preserving cultural knowledge.
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Joe Williams – A proud Wiradjuri/Wolgalu man, former NRL player and professional boxer, Joe is now a leading national advocate for mental health, suicide prevention, and youth resilience through his foundation The Enemy Within.
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Jayne Christian – A Baramadagal woman of the Dharug Nation, Jayne is a lawyer, mediator, and cultural artist. As Director of Barabirang Projects, she works at the intersection of social justice, Indigenous empowerment, and healing.
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Maria Joy Turpin – Maria Joy Turpin – A proud Meriam and Tig Dauareb elder’s representative of Meriam Ira Per TGC niece of Eddie Koiki Mabo, Maria continues her uncle’s legacy as a passionate advocate for land rights, cultural heritage, and intergenerational equity in Indigenous leadership.
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Alex Wymarra – A Gudang/Yadhaykenu Traditional Owner from Cape York and Chair of the Treaty Council, Alex is a strong voice for Indigenous economic sovereignty, economic empowerment, and cultural renewal,
Ashish Katta, President of the Indian Council of Australia Queensland, said:
“The formation of the First Nations Advisory Board is not a token gesture – it is the very foundation of how we shape our future. As the Indian Council of Australia (ICAQ) transitions into a national body, we are committed to ensuring that Indigenous voices are not only heard but embedded in our decision-making at every level. This Board represents a structural commitment to reconciliation, respect, and shared nationhood. It is our way of acknowledging that the story of multicultural Australia must always begin with the wisdom, culture, and custodianship of its First Peoples. Together, we will walk a path that strengthens bonds between Indigenous Australians and the Indian diaspora, honouring the past while building a more inclusive and just future for all.”
The Indian Council of Australia Queensland (ICAQ) is a peak body that represents the Indian diaspora in Queensland, promoting multicultural harmony, community advocacy, and bilateral ties between India and Australia. ICAQ is committed to evolving into a national organisation with Indigenous leadership at its heart.
Media Contact:
Ashish Katta
President
Indian Council of Australia Queensland
president@icaq.org.au