Victoria's Aboriginal health organisation peak body holds "question time" for Frankston Council poll

Giovanni Torre Published October 11, 2024 at 11.00am (AWST)

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The panel included Andrew Cheeseman, Deb Mellett, Charles Pakana (moderator), Emily Green and Ashleigh Hoult. Image: VACCHO.

The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation in partnership with Nairm Marr Djambana, hosted an Aboriginal Community Question Time in Frankston on Thursday.

The event provided an opportunity for local Aboriginal community members and allies to ask Frankston City Council candidates about issues impacting their Communities in the run up to the Council election on 26 October.

The panel, moderated by Elder Uncle Charles Pakana, included three Council candidates: Ashleigh Hoult (Independent), Emily Green (Greens) and Andrew Cheeseman (Victorian Socialists). Traditional Owner Aunty Jillian West also joined the panel discussion.

It was the second time VACCHO has facilitated a Community Question Time, hosting its first panel event prior to the Victorian state election in November 2022.

VACCHO chief executive Dr Jill Gallagher AO said the event provided an opportunity for the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community in Frankston, to ask questions of candidates before voting in their upcoming council election.

"Truth-telling and uncomfortable conversations are critical to being able to create change and move forward for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria," she said.

"I call on whoever is elected on council election day to support and empower Nairm Marr Djambana to strengthen the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community in Frankston.

"I commend the Community who attended the Question Time for their enthusiasm and willingness to ask the tough questions of their local candidates.

"I also applaud the panellists for opening themselves up to be part of these vital discussions in one of the fastest growing Aboriginal communities in Victoria."

Nairm Marr Djambana general manager Deb Mellett urged all candidates to become champions for their local Aboriginal Community.

"I urge whoever is elected to consider putting a cultural overlay across all their work, ensuring that their strategies and plans effectively work towards enhancing the lives of our Community," she said.

Nairm Marr Djambana is a member of VACCHO and offers a wide range of culturally strengthening programs and activities to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.