The Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry Members commenced on 1 July 2024 for a 3-year term to explore and share a more complete picture of Queensland’s history. The Inquiry is led by Chairperson Joshua Creamer who is joined by Members Cheryl Buchanan, the Honorable Roslyn Atkinson AO, Ivan Ingram and Vonda Malone.
On their first day, the Inquiry were welcomed onto Country by the Nunukul Yuggera dance group and received a Torres Strait blessing by Member Malone. This was followed by the Members receiving the Inquiry Terms of Reference.
The Inquiry was established under the Path to Treaty Act 2023. The Act was co-designed between the Interim Truth and Treaty Body and the Queensland Government, informed by consultation across Queensland.
During week 1, the five Members came together in Meanjin (Brisbane) to plan for the inquiries to be conducted across Queensland and engage in other set-up activities including workshopping the strategic plan, and a visit to Queensland State Archives (QSA).
When visiting QSA, Members learned about the type and quantity of records held. Inquiry Members will examine historical records held within archives, libraries, museums, and government agencies.
The Members will listen to, share people’s experiences, and review evidence and documents to uncover the many aspects of Queensland’s past. Sharing truth through the Inquiry will allow people to heal.
The Inquiry will empower Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples to share their experiences in a trauma informed and culturally appropriate way.
Why does Queensland need a Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry?
During community consultation, Queenslanders said they wish to hear and record the history of our state through a truth-telling and healing process. Hearing the truth about our shared histories helps us to understand how past laws, policies and practices have impacted, and continue to impact, Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It also leads to healing.
Chair Joshua Creamer highlights the significance of the Inquiry, “The Inquiry is for all Queenslanders. Truth-telling and healing is critically important and fundamental because since colonisation in Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s stories have just not been heard.”
“There is a huge part of our history which is forgotten and not spoken about. The Inquiry’s work is to bring life to that history, to hear those stories and to share them with all the Queensland population,” Chairperson Creamer said.