The Crime and Misconduct Commission’s inquiry into policing in Indigenous communities is well underway as the project team continues to visit remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander areas in Queensland.
CMC Director, Research and Prevention Susan Johnson says the project team is consulting with as many Indigenous leaders and groups, police and relevant stakeholders as possible to collect a range of views on policing and community relations.
‘The team has had a good response so far, but there is still a lot more ground to cover. So far they have visited 18 communities including Woorabinda, Palm Island and Kowanyama,’ Ms Johnson said.
‘Apart from face to face consultation with Indigenous communities and other stakeholders, the project team is also examining a large volume of other relevant research. The CMC has also invited written submissions. This information needs to be carefully considered before any public hearings can take place.’
‘The CMC has decided to extend the inquiry’s consultation phase until early July. We then expect to hold public hearings later this year and provide a final report to state parliament in early 2008.’
‘The CMC is aware of public interest in this project and understands the need for the inquiry to be finished as soon as possible; however, issues surrounding policing in Indigenous communities are complex and need to be examined thoroughly.’
‘The CMC has advised the Premier and Attorney-General that more time is needed to ensure the inquiry is comprehensive. They have recognised that these matters take time and have been accepting,’ Ms Johnson said.
While the closing date for submissions to the inquiry has passed, the CMC will continue to accept late submissions.
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