Torres Strait Regional Authority Annual Report 2017-2018

The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) recognises the Traditional Owners of the land on which we operate. We acknowledge the past and present elders of all Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area and respect the culture and lore of all Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the region.

The TSRA will always make every effort to respect Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people’s cultural sensitivities when featuring the images or names of people who have recently died. However, please be advised that this document may contain images of persons who have died since this Annual Report was prepared for tabling in Parliament in October 2018. We offer our apologies for any distress caused if this occurs.

© Commonwealth of Australia, 2018

ISSN 1324–163X

The TSRA has made all reasonable effort to:

clearly label material where the copyright is owned by a third party

ensure that the copyright owner has consented to the material being presented in this publication.

With the exception of the Commonwealth Coat of Arms and where otherwise noted, all material presented in this report is provided under a creative commons licence. Details of the licence can be found on the Creative Commons Australia website at http://creativecommons.org.au/learn/licences.

This document must be attributed as the Torres Strait Regional Authority Annual Report 2017-2018.

The TSRA’s contact officer for the 2017-2018 Annual Report is Ms Yoshiko Hirakawa, Acting Programme Manager Governance and Leadership. Telephone (07) 4069 0700 or email info@tsra.gov.au.

The TSRA Annual Report 2017-2018 is published on the TSRA website at
www.tsra.gov.au in the following formats:

Hypertext Mark-up Language (HTML)

Portable Document Format (PDF) ISO 32000-1:2008

ePub Electronic Publishing for eBook Readers.

VISION

EMPOWERING OUR PEOPLE, IN OUR DECISION, IN OUR CULTURE, FOR OUR FUTURE

KALA LAGAW YA

Ngalpun yangu kaaba woeydhay, a ngalpun muruygaw danalagan mabaygal kunakan palayk, bathayngaka

MERIAM MIR

Buaigiz kelar obaiswerare, merbi mir apuge mena obakedi, muige merbi areribi tonarge, ko merbi keub kerkerem

The Indigenous people of the Torres Strait are a separate race of First Nations peoples who speak two distinct traditional languages and six dialects. Torres Strait Islanders in the Eastern Islands speak the traditional language of Meriam Mir, which includes the Mer and Erub dialects. The Western and Central Island groups speak Kala Lagaw Ya, which includes the dialects of Kulkalgau Ya, Kalaw Kawaw Ya, Kawrareg and Mabuyag. Torres Strait Creole and English are also spoken.

Our vision is expressed in the languages of our region, recognising the importance and diversity of our culture and traditional languages.

Our vision signifies that the heart of our region is our people, with culture an important part of our lives now and into the future. Empowering our people to contribute to and make decisions regarding their future ensures that our culture will remain strong and that the future will be guided by the people who live in the region and understand and promote its unique characteristics.

HIGHLIGHTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Supply Nation Connect 2018

The TSRA Economic Development Programme supports local businesses to gain greater economic stability and growth. This included supporting Torres Strait and Aboriginal owned businesses to attend Supply Nation Connect 2018.

The six Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people who attended, representing five businesses, were:

Ms Rita Gutchen – AJ Car Hire, Thursday Island

Mrs Alice Loban – Koedal Taxi Service, Thursday Island

Mr Stephen Nawia and Ms Dolly Oui – Seisia Hire Cars, Seisia

Ms Matilda Nona – Artist, Badu Island

Ms Louisa Nancy Kiwat – Artist, Erub Island.

Held on 22 and 23 May 2018 in Sydney, Supply Nation Connect 2018 included a knowledge forum and a tradeshow, on the theme ‘Shaping an inclusive economy’.

REGISTERING IN THE SUPPLY NATION DIRECTORY ALLOWS INDIGENOUS BUSINESSES GREATER VISIBILITY WHEN BEING CONSIDERED FOR AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT AND COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITIES.

The first day provided an opportunity for Indigenous business owners from across Australia to share their knowledge and experience while engaging in a series of workshops facilitated by prominent business figures. The second day included the tradeshow, at which the TSRA operated a booth that provided our local businesses with an opportunity to showcase their businesses and products.

Left to right: Ms Dolly Oui; Ms Jamila Gordon, Supply Nation Connect closing keynote speaker; and Ms Rita Gutchen

Staff of the TSRA Economic Development Programme and local businesses at Supply Nation Connect 2018

Left to right: Ms Matilda Nona; Mrs Alice Loban; Mr Clifford A Bailey, Supply Nation Connect opening keynote speaker; and Ms Louisa Nancy Kiwat

The Supply Nation forum experience highlighted the importance of developing effective marketing and networking opportunities. Registering in the Supply Nation directory allows Indigenous businesses greater visibility when being considered for Australian Government procurement and commercial opportunities.

Australian Bureau of Statistics Regional Statistics Data Library Project

The TSRA and the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) implemented a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the production of a Torres Strait Regional Statistics Data Library (RSDL). In signing the MOU, the TSRA and ABS have formalised their commitment to working together with the Torres Strait community in supporting the development of regionally specific data.

As a basis for regional development planning, the RSDL will provide geographically specific data related to a broad range of statistical topics relevant to the Torres Strait, such as: demography and society, housing and infrastructure, social and support services, health status, education and training, criminal justice, labour market, environment, and income from employment and welfare. A primary focus of this collaborative project is the compilation of key regionally specific social and developmental statistics collected in conjunction with the national population census and other official data collections.

Standing left to right: Mr Michael Bullot, Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Centre of Excellence for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Statistics and Community Engagement, and Mr Aven S Noah, TSRA. Seated left to right: Mr Dean Bowley, ABS Indigenous and Social Information Branch; Mr Wayne See Kee, TSRA; and Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, TSRA

Mr Shaun Skerritt, Australian Maritime Safety Authority (third from right), delivering Recreational Marine Driver Licence training to outer island residents

AMSA BoatSafe Training

The TSRA provided $50,000 to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) to deliver BoatSafe training to all outer island Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area communities. The BoatSafe training provider is accredited by the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads to deliver maritime training.

THE TRAINING ENSURES THAT COMMUNITY AND RECREATIONAL VESSEL MASTERS ARE SAFE, COMPETENT AND COMPLIANT WITH BOAT SAFETY REGULATIONS.

The training was extremely well received by community leaders, maritime industry stakeholders and the broader community. The training enabled community members to receive their Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL) and resulted in people becoming accredited as safe recreational vessel operators, ensuring that community and recreational vessel masters are safe, competent and compliant with boat safety regulations. A total of 250 participants received the training, with numerous participants who already held an RMDL attending to refresh their knowledge.

Evolution: Torres Strait Masks graphic panel at the National Museum of Australia

Evolution Exhibition Travels Overseas

In 2017-2018, the Evolution: Torres Strait Masks exhibition, developed by the TSRA’s Gab Titui Cultural Centre in partnership with the National Museum of Australia, was shared internationally for the first time.

The exhibition was presented in Hanoi by the Australian Embassy to Vietnam together with the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. The two-month exhibition at the museum was part of activities celebrating the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Australia and Vietnam.

Evolution explores the importance of ceremonial masks in Torres Strait Islander culture and their influence on contemporary art forms. It will be shared with up to 40 countries as a travelling graphic panel display.

OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

Opportunities

Improving Telecommunication Services in the Torres Strait

In January 2017, the TSRA partnered with the Australian Government Department of Agriculture and Water Resources (DAWR) and Telstra on a two-stage project to upgrade telecommunications infrastructure, provide a platform for 4G technology, and deliver increased network backhaul capacity for the Torres Strait region. The first stage of the project was costed at $8.26 million and completed in June 2018.

The second phase of the project, known as the Torres Strait Digital Expansion Project, is valued at $15.62 million ($7.09 million from Telstra and $8.53 million from co-contributors).

In June 2018, the TSRA received $1.4 million from DAWR towards Phase 2 of the telecommunications upgrade project. The funding is welcomed by both the TSRA and Telstra and allows the project to continue into 2018-2019.

The TSRA and Telstra will progress with Phase 2 by dividing the scope of the project into smaller portions, with the objective of entering into funding agreements with a focus, in the first instance, on upgrading 4G base stations in the north-west cluster islands of the Torres Strait.

In addition to the $1.4 million recently provided by DAWR, it is hoped that the state government will contribute $2.135 million and that Telstra will match the co-contributions.

The TSRA will continue to work with Telstra and all levels of government to seek the remaining funding to ensure that the telecommunications infrastructure in the Torres Strait region is capable of delivering the technology and innovation needed for border protection, biosecurity management and multiple socioeconomic, educational, health and community safety outcomes for the island communities and people of the Torres Strait region.

TSRA Ranger Compliance Powers

In 2017, the TSRA obtained a funding agreement (for 2017 to 2020) from the Department of the Prime Minster and Cabinet, under the national Capacity Building for Indigenous Rangers Strategy, to:

establish and operationalise a specialist Compliance Management Unit (CMU)

build the capacity of TSRA community-based rangers to effectively support and participate in the operations of compliance management

continue to support communities in the implementation of community-based management plans for dugong and turtle.

Ms Alicia Sabatino, Senior Compliance Officer of the TSRA Compliance Management Unit, patrolling with Boigu Island rangers Mr Dimas Toby and Mr Ishmael Gibuma

The TSRA is well placed to deliver an effective compliance management programme that includes the Indigenous Ranger Programme, which involves 50 full-time rangers based across the outer islands.

The CMU has been established on Thursday Island, providing centralised management of all specialist compliance management activities. Over the next two years, this will include the development of an operations control centre with all of the appropriate resources to receive, analyse and disseminate information and direct field operations.

The CMU will facilitate an effective network between communities, rangers and regulatory agencies, ensuring that at all times rangers are supported through ongoing participation in patrols, training, and mentoring by specialist Indigenous compliance staff. The development, design and implementation of the CMU will be consistent with international best practice and in accordance with national guidelines, policy and legislation.

THE CMU WILL FACILITATE AN EFFECTIVE NETWORK BETWEEN COMMUNITIES, RANGERS AND REGULATORY AGENCIES, ENSURING THAT AT ALL TIMES RANGERS ARE SUPPORTED THROUGH ONGOING PARTICIPATION IN PATROLS, TRAINING, AND MENTORING BY SPECIALIST INDIGENOUS COMPLIANCE STAFF.

Australian Fisheries Management Authority compliance officers providing a patrol briefing with Boigu Island ranger Mr Dimas Toby, Saibai Island ranger Mr Conwell Tabuai, and Senior Compliance Officer Mr Quinten Hirakawa

During 2017-2018, through the support of DAWR, over 90 per cent of TSRA rangers completed formal and nationally recognised Certificate IV in Government Investigations (Regulatory Compliance) training, equipping them with the theoretical and operational knowledge and skills to undertake compliance activities. As a result, the TSRA has received in-principle agreement from the Australian Government Department of the Environment and Energy for CMU staff and rangers to be delegated formal powers under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth). As staff capability develops, this will enable the organisation to play a key role in supporting the management of environmental compliance in the Torres Strait region.

The CMU is actively participating in a review of and subsequent updates to the dugong and turtle management plans to include increased cultural authority governance protocols and associated culturally governed compliance treatments.

Regional Language Centre and Traditional Languages Plan

The TSRA has now entered the final year of the Torres Strait languages project, which has been supported by the Australian Government Department of Communications and the Arts. The four-year languages project commenced in 2014 and included the development of the Torres Strait Traditional Languages Plan under the guidance of the community-elected Torres Strait Traditional Language Advisory Committee.

The committee is assisting project partners with the establishment of the Regional Language Centre and the coordination of activities outlined in the plan. In 2017-2018, the TSRA finalised a three-year arrangement to temporarily locate the Regional Language Centre at the Tagai State College Thursday Island Secondary Campus, based in the Yangu Pawaw Ngurpay Mudh building. This arrangement has been created to accommodate the centre until a long-term community facility is secured.

The Regional Language Centre and implementation of the Torres Strait Traditional Languages Plan 2016-2019 will help to protect and promote the six dialects spoken in the Torres Strait Island region: Kulkalgau Ya, Kalaw Kawaw Ya, Kawrareg, Mabuyag, Mer and Erub. Addressing the loss of critically endangered languages in the Torres Strait is a key outcome of this project.

Infrastructure Coordination

For the past 20 years the TSRA has implemented the Major Infrastructure Programme (MIP), a highly successful co-funding model that has secured more than $230 million of investment into the region.

THROUGH INCREASED REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE COORDINATION, THE TSRA COULD ENHANCE THE OPTIMAL REGIONAL DELIVERY OF INFRASTRUCTURE BY ENSURING INCREASED INDIGENOUS EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES AND INCREASED PARTICIPATION OF LOCAL INDIGENOUS BUSINESSES.

There is considerable capacity for the TSRA to expand on the successes thus far of the existing MIP model, including key components such as the MIP Management Committee meeting to facilitate regional infrastructure improvements. Through increased regional infrastructure coordination, the TSRA could enhance the optimal regional delivery of infrastructure by ensuring increased Indigenous employment and training opportunities and increased participation of local Indigenous businesses.

Fisheries Regional Ownership Framework

Significant progress was made in 2017-2018 in developing a Torres Strait model for the independent control and ownership of fishery assets, including those currently held by the TSRA on behalf of Traditional Inhabitants. After a delegation of leaders visited New Zealand to learn about the Maori experience, community consultation was conducted in early 2018 across all communities in the Torres Strait, to seek their views on the ownership, control and management of fisheries assets and endorsement for the TSRA to identify the best structure to deliver a solution on this matter.

This study and consultation gave the TSRA the mandate to progress to Phase 2 of the initiative, which is to seek legal, accounting and business advice on the most suitable entity and/or structure for a community management framework in the region. The TSRA will continue to work with all stakeholders to further progress this project in 2018-2019.

Torres Strait Islander Freehold Land Transfers

Despite Native Title decisions giving exclusive possession on all the inhabited outer islands, the freehold on most of those islands continues to be held by the Torres Strait Island Regional Council under a Deed of Grant in Trust (DOGIT). Currently, only two Registered Native Title Bodies Corporate (RNTBCs) have Torres Strait Islander freehold land on their respective islands. However, four more transfers of the freehold land to the RNTBCs are now on the table. Such transfers may present opportunities for increased self-determination and economic development.

Challenges

Geography

The geography of the Torres Strait area presents and always will present a challenge when delivering services and infrastructure. With island communities spread across approximately 44,000 kilometres of sea, the costs of delivering services and infrastructure are significantly higher than in most other parts of Australia. These costs have a major influence on the implementation and timing of programmes, services and projects.

High Costs of Air and Sea Travel and Freight

The high costs of travel and transportation of freight in the Torres Strait continue to impact on economic growth, tourism and the delivery of programmes and services in the region. For example, the delivery of services to the outer Torres Strait islands may not be as timely or effective as in other Indigenous regions. Therefore, positive initiatives such as subsidised transportation and freight and airfare costs are required to mitigate those significant costs.

Katter Leases

In February 2018, the Supreme Court of Queensland handed down a decision in Wigness v Kingham, President of the Land Court [2018] QSC 20. This was a review of a decision of the Land Court of Queensland.

The Land Court action was brought by parties who had lease entitlements under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Land Holding Act 2013 (Qld), known as Katter leases. The parties had applied for grants of Katter leases, but the Minister for Natural Resources and Mines had decided that Native Title was a competing interest and therefore a practical obstacle to the grant of Katter leases.

The Land Court found that this was incorrect and that granting an entitlement to a Katter lease was a pre-existing right based act under section 24IB of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth). The granting of exclusive possession by such an act extinguishes any Native Title. Therefore, Native Title was not an obstacle and the leases could be granted. The Supreme Court upheld the Land Court’s decision.

There are currently 330 valid entitlements to Katter leases in the Torres Strait. If these entitlements were to be exercised there would be a significant effect on Native Title in the region.

The TSRA is awaiting the provision of detailed mapping of the Katter lease entitlements in the region from the Department of Natural Resources and Mines.

Tropical Rock Lobster Fishery Management Plan

The total allowable catch in the 2017-2018 tropical rock lobster (TRL) fishing season was a historically low catch of 299 tonnes, shared between Australia and Papua New Guinea. For the first time, the season closed early, on 31 July 2018, when the Australian share of the catch was reached. As one of the most important economic drivers in the region, this had a significant negative impact on people’s livelihoods.

The Protected Zone Joint Authority (PZJA) is taking steps to improve the management arrangements in the TRL fishery. As a result of additional Transferrable Vessel Holder licence purchases by the TSRA in 2017-2018, the nominal ownership of the TRL fishery by Traditional Inhabitants under a future management plan is now 66.17 per cent of the Australian share of the fishery.

The TSRA is working as part of the PZJA to implement a TRL fishery management plan that supports the aspiration of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the region and formally secures ownership of the 66.17 per cent by Traditional Inhabitants.

Telecommunications

Telecommunications in the Torres Strait is both a challenge and an opportunity. As noted under Opportunities, the TSRA, in partnership with Telstra, is working on a staged project to address telecommunications and mobile network issues in the region. Until the project is completed, the region will continue to experience mobile network drop-offs, black spots and unreliable internet and mobile reception. For example, at present a number of outer Torres Strait island communities can only use landlines, which can sometimes be unreliable. Agencies like the TSRA are exploring alternative options such as the installation of repeaters and antennas for their staff and Board members based in affected communities.

Integrated Service Delivery

A key challenge to the TSRA’s Integrated Service Delivery (ISD) project is securing commitment from all Commonwealth, state and local government departments operating in the region to treat ISD as core business.

As an initiative to improve ISD in the region, the TSRA has implemented MOUs and memorandums of agreement with some of the government bodies, including the three local government councils in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.

The Torres Strait Regional Coordination Group has also been established, to drive accountability and strategic assessment for delivery of cross-regional actions that are identified in the Torres Strait Regional Adaptation and Resilience Plan 2016-2021 as well as other matters of strategic regional significance, and to ensure that there is effective coordination across organisations and agencies.

The TSRA and the three local governments are the pillars of the Torres Strait, and the core function of the Torres Strait Regional Coordination Group is to align various stakeholders to the vision of addressing local-level climate change impacts and community development actions.

Waste

For many years there has been a need to improve the coordination of waste management. While there has been some progress, the development and implementation of a Torres Strait specific regional waste management strategy is now necessary to overcome the difficulty of the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area biosecurity restrictions and the high costs of potential solutions.

THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A TORRES STRAIT SPECIFIC REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT STRATEGY IS NOW NECESSARY TO OVERCOME THE DIFFICULTY OF THE TORRES STRAIT AND NORTHERN PENINSULA AREA BIOSECURITY RESTRICTIONS AND THE HIGH COSTS OF POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS.

Marine Infrastructure

The Torres Strait is an island environment, making marine infrastructure essential to transport throughout the region. Much of the wharf infrastructure in the Torres Strait is aging and in need of large-scale maintenance and/or replacement. The investment required is beyond the resources of local councils, and the TSRA is continuing to work with all stakeholders to attract the required resources.

CONTENTS

TORRES STRAIT REGION

VISION

HIGHLIGHTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

SECTION one Strategic Overview

Chairperson’s Message

Chief Executive Officer’s Message

SECTION Two Programme Performance

Outcomes and Planned Performance

Integrated Planning Framework

Summary of Financial Performance

Appropriation programme expenditure

External funding programme expenditure

Annual Performance Statements

Introductory Statement

Purpose

Results for Key Performance Indicators and Analysis

Programme Reports

Economic Development

Fisheries

Culture, Art and Heritage

Native Title

Environmental Management

Governance and Leadership

Healthy Communities

Safe Communities

SECTION THREE Operations

Where We Operate

Geography and Logistics

Culture

History

Native Title

Progress Towards Closing the Gap

COAG Building Blocks

Regional Statistics

How We Operate

Formation

Enabling Legislation

Functions

Powers

Responsible Minister

Ministerial Directions

Statement of Expectations and Statement of Intent

Ministerial Appointments

Briefings and Information

SECTION FOUR Corporate Governance and Accountability

Overview of Governance Structure

Governance Framework

TSRA Board

Executive Committee

Other Corporate and Advisory Committees

Enabling Functions

Information Management and Technology

Environmental Sustainability

Risk Management

Accountability

Human Resources

Other Reportable Matters

Section FIVE Financial Statements

Section SIX Appendices

Appendix 1: Organisational Structure

Appendix 2: Advertising and Market Research

Appendix 3: Grants

Appendix 4: Consultants

Section SEVEN Aids to Access

Index of Requirements

List of Tables

List of figures

List of Abbreviations

Index

Chairperson’s Message

Introduction

As Chairperson of the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA), I am pleased to present the TSRA’s 2017-2018 Annual Report. Since the 2016 election of the current TSRA Board, all members and the administration have worked progressively to achieve the best outcomes for communities in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area. This Annual Report outlines the work that has progressed as well as some of the achievements and challenges of the TSRA over the past year.

New Board Member

The TSRA welcomed the new Member for Erub, Mr Jimmy Gela, during his recent induction into the organisation.

Following the resignation of the previous Member for Erub, Mr Kenny Bedford, the Australian Electoral Commission declared Mr Gela the successful candidate to fill the vacancy on the TSRA Board.

Mr Gela comes to the TSRA with a wealth of community experience, including involvement in a number of community boards and committees. He held the Local Government Councillor position for Erub in the previous term of the Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) and is the Chairperson of the Erubam Le Traditional Land and Sea Owners (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation. Further information about Mr Gela can be found in Section 4 of this Annual Report in the section ‘Profiles of TSRA Board Members’.

25th Anniversary of the Native Title Act 1993

In June 2018, I attended the National Native Title Conference hosted in Broome, Western Australia, by the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies. The conference marked 25 years since the passing of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) and provided a valuable forum for exploring the challenges and opportunities of Native Title in the broader context of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s aspirations for their lands, waters and communities.

The TSRA will continue to assist Traditional Owners to secure legal recognition of Native Title to land and waters in the Torres Strait. We will continue to support Prescribed Bodies Corporate in the post-determination era to strive for economic independence and work with Traditional Owners to obtain appropriate compensation for the use of Native Title land in our region.

Climate Change

At the beginning of 2018, I met with the senior leadership of the TSIRC and the Torres Shire Council (TSC) to consider key climate change risks for the Torres Strait.

It is widely recognised that climate change is a very important issue for communities in the Torres Strait. Besides sea level rise, climate change will also impact health, water security, and marine resources, and could likely contribute to regional instability in areas neighbouring the Torres Strait as identified in the 2016 Defence White Paper.

The inaugural meeting of the Torres Strait Climate and Resilience Working Group (left to right): Ms Dalassa Yorkston, Torres Shire Council CEO; Mr Bruce Ranga, Torres Strait Island Regional Council CEO; Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, TSRA Chairperson; Ms Hilda Mosby, TSRA Member for Masig and Portfolio Member for Environmental Management; Ms Vonda Malone, Torres Shire Council Mayor; Mr Fred Gela, Torres Strait Island Regional Council Mayor; and Mr Wayne See Kee, TSRA CEO

The meeting helped to galvanise our resolve for our organisations to work together to meet this challenge as best we can to ensure a strong future for our region. The TSRA, TSIRC and TSC agreed to establish the permanent high-level Torres Strait Climate and Resilience Working Group to drive the implementation of the Torres Strait Regional Adaptation and Resilience Plan 2016-2021.

The working group has since been renamed the Torres Strait Regional Coordination Group and now includes the Mayor and Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) in its membership, with an expanded scope to coordinate Integrated Service Delivery (ISD) across the region.

TSRA Board Development Programme

In June 2018, TSRA Board members undertook an intensive two-day Indigenous Governance Programme on Thursday Island. Delivered by the Australian Institute of Company Directors, the programme provided members with professional development in assessing financial statements and organisational performance, as well as understanding their strategic role in the agency and how to engage with and understand the risks of decision-making at the Board level.

Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, TSRA Chairperson, and Mr Wayne See Kee, TSRA CEO, with the delegation from the Solomon Islands Government and representatives of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

International Engagement

In March 2018, I was honoured to host a meeting with representatives of the Solomon Islands Government and the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The Solomon Islands delegation visited Thursday Island to observe the implementation of the Torres Strait Treaty, covering immigration, border control, environment, fisheries, law and order, health, maritime safety and Traditional Inhabitant matters.

In April 2018, I joined the Australian Government delegation to the 17th session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII17) in New York, United States of America. UNPFII17 was a very valuable opportunity to highlight and discuss the issues of climate change, development planning, Closing the Gap, and regional governance with our international counterparts.

Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, TSRA Chairperson, with the Australian delegation to UNPFII17

In February 2018, I attended the Torres Strait Treaty Cycle Meetings in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Hosted by the Papua New Guinea Government, the 2018 cycle of meetings consisted of the Traditional Inhabitants Meeting and the Joint Advisory Council, with delegates from the Papua New Guinea and Australian governments, as well as Papua New Guinea and Australian Traditional Inhabitant representatives. The Environmental Management Committee Meeting, Health Issues Committee Meeting and Fisheries Bilateral Meeting were held in conjunction with the treaty meetings.

TSRA Regional Governance Committee

Regional governance in the Torres Strait remains a longstanding aspiration of Torres Strait Islanders that requires Australian Government and Queensland Government support and commitment. The TSRA Regional Governance Committee worked to bring this aspiration to reality throughout 2017-2018, meeting with Australian Government and state government ministers and key stakeholders to discuss the design and implementation of the preferred model. The TSRA Board reconfirmed its support in June 2018 for the creation of a Torres Strait Regional Assembly and endorsed the Regional Governance Committee Secretariat to develop a transition plan for implementation.

Left to right: The Queensland Government’s Ministerial Champion for the Torres Strait, the Hon. Shannon Fentiman MP, with Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, TSRA Chairperson, and Mr Charlie Kaddy, Acting TSRA CEO, in June 2018

REGIONAL GOVERNANCE IN THE TORRES STRAIT REMAINS A LONGSTANDING ASPIRATION OF TORRES STRAIT ISLANDERS

Community Engagement

In 2017-2018, I maintained my commitment to visit Torres Strait communities and directly engage with the community members at the grassroots level. The Chief Executive Officer and I have continued on the community engagement cycle. I was pleased to undertake visits to Poruma, Masig, Seisia, Ugar, Dauan and Erub.

Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, TSRA Chairperson, meeting with the Seisia community in December 2017

THE VISITS PROVIDE A FIRSTHAND OPPORTUNITY FOR MEMBERS OR GROUPS IN COMMUNITIES TO RAISE COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL ISSUES WITH US.

These visits are specifically useful to me and Board members in the communities as we share information about the TSRA. The visits also provide a firsthand opportunity for members or groups in communities to raise community and regional issues with us.

Over the upcoming year, I will continue to visit Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area communities.

Building Leadership Capacity

Over the past year, the TSRA maintained its focus on developing the leadership capacity of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the region. The partnership between the TSRA and the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation has continued to grow. During the reporting period, sponsorship was provided to emerging leaders in the Australian Rural Leadership Program, Training Rural Australians in Leadership, the Torres Strait Women’s Leadership Program and the Torres Strait Young Leaders Program.

Left to right: General Angus Campbell AO, DSC, Chief of the Defence Force, and Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, TSRA Chairperson, at the event commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion

Maintaining Our Culture

In February 2017, the TSRA launched the Torres Strait Traditional Languages Plan 2016-2019 and the Torres Strait Languages Charter at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre, followed by the 2017 Torres Strait Language Symposium where people from the region engaged with local, national and international presenters. The Languages Reference Group dissolved at the end of the Symposium and a new Torres Strait Traditional Language Advisory Committee was established to continue with the development of the Regional Language Centre and delivery of language-related initiatives. I wish to acknowledge all key partners, stakeholders and community representatives for their ongoing contribution towards revitalising our traditional languages.

The Gab Titui Cultural Centre commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion with a specially curated exhibition that celebrated and honoured the individual and family stories of service and sacrifice of Torres Strait Islander people. The exhibition was supported by the award-winning Shrine of Remembrance travelling exhibition Indigenous Australians at war from the Boer War to the present. At the opening of the exhibitions, I was honoured to host Torres Strait Islander veterans, along with the Member for Cook, Ms Cynthia Lui MP, and the Chief of the Defence Force, General Angus Campbell AO, DSC.

Acknowledgement

Looking back over the past year, the Board and the administration of the TSRA have worked diligently to set the strategic direction and achieve the best possible outcomes for the people living in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area region.

I sincerely thank my fellow Board members for their valuable contributions and constructive debates, and for making the hard decisions for the best outcomes on the challenging issues.

I would also like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the outgoing Chief Executive Officer, Mr Wayne See Kee PSM. Mr See Kee’s appointment as Chief Executive Officer officially ceased at the beginning of July 2018. On behalf of the Board and the staff, I wish Mr See Kee every success in his new appointment with the Australian Government. Mr See Kee has made an enormous contribution to the TSRA since 2001 and since 2004 has provided strategic leadership as Chief Executive Officer that will leave a lasting legacy.

THE COMBINED EFFORTS OF THE BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION ALL CONTRIBUTE TO POSITIVE OUTCOMES BEING DELIVERED IN OUR COMMUNITIES.

The combined efforts of the Board and administration all contribute to positive outcomes being delivered in our communities.

I take this opportunity to acknowledge our Elders and Traditional Owners, and the officials and councillors of Prescribed Bodies Corporate and local government, for the support and hospitality provided to me and the TSRA administration in the delivery of our services throughout the region.

In closing, I also express my gratitude to the Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Senator the Hon. Nigel Scullion, and to Australian, Queensland and local government members and agencies for providing ongoing support to the TSRA and the Torres Strait to ensure that the region continually grows in strength.

Napau Pedro Stephen AM
Chairperson

Chief Executive Officer’s Message

Delivering Outcomes

The TSRA has continued to deliver programmes and implement policies and projects to achieve the targeted outcomes identified in the Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018.

Community Engagement

As part of the TSRA’s commitment to engage with our communities, the TSRA Chairperson and I completed visits to six communities as part of our engagement programme. These engagement visits will continue in 2018-2019, with the aim of visiting all communities in the region. Community engagement visits by TSRA programme areas at the operational level have been ongoing and will continue in the coming financial year as well. These visits are conducted by TSRA project staff to work with their clients and review the status of TSRA projects and initiatives.

Leadership Development

The TSRA is proud to continue its partnership with the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation, delivering a suite of leadership programmes tailored for youth, women and emerging leaders in our region.

I was honoured to join the TSRA-sponsored graduate, Mr Andrew Lui, and 30 other successful participants of the flagship Australian Rural Leadership Program Course 23, for the gala event held at the National Museum of Australia in October 2017 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation. Andrew is the TSRA’s eighth candidate who has successfully completed the programme. I look forward to seeing leaders like Andrew return to our community to influence and drive positive change in the region.

Simplifying and Streamlining Grant Funding Administration

In the reporting period, the TSRA successfully completed the rollout of the Smarty Grants system. Further refinements were tested and successfully implemented to improve the experience for funding applicants, including the option for submitting online applications. Community user feedback has been positive, on the seamless ease of use and the reduction in the time and complexity involved in applying for funding.

I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING LEADERS LIKE ANDREW RETURN TO OUR COMMUNITY TO INFLUENCE AND DRIVE POSITIVE CHANGE IN THE REGION.

Left to right: Mr Andrew Lui, Australian Rural Leadership Program Course 23 graduate, and Mr Wayne See Kee, TSRA CEO, at the graduation ceremony in October 2017

The TSRA has a strong commitment to the Australian Government’s initiative to reduce red tape and, along with the implementation of the Smarty Grants system, the TSRA also undertook to streamline our standard grant agreements with assistance from the Grants Policy Team in the Department of Finance and the Australian Government Solicitor. This resulted in grant agreement paperwork being reduced in the majority of projects by over 80 per cent. The feedback from grant recipients in the community was again positive, with the streamlined agreements rolled out in June 2018 for projects commencing on 1 July 2018.

Integrated Service Delivery

During 2017-2018, work continued on reviewing and negotiating an updated ISD governance framework with our counterparts at the Commonwealth, state and local government levels. This culminated in the formation of the Torres Strait Regional Coordination Group in April 2018, bringing together elected representatives and senior staff from the TSRA and local government bodies in the region. Through the Torres Strait Regional Coordination Group, the TSRA Board and administration remain committed to working in partnership with all government and non-government stakeholders to address the key challenges of economic development, renewable energy, waste management, housing, climate change and coastal erosion.

THROUGH THE TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL COORDINATION GROUP, THE TSRA BOARD AND ADMINISTRATION REMAIN COMMITTED TO WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ALL GOVERNMENT AND NON-GOVERNMENT STAKEHOLDERS TO ADDRESS THE KEY CHALLENGES OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, RENEWABLE ENERGY, WASTE MANAGEMENT, HOUSING, CLIMATE CHANGE AND COASTAL EROSION.

Economic Development

Following the successful launch of the first phase of the Regional Economic Investment Strategy (REIS) in 2016-2017, targeting the fisheries industry, the second phase of the REIS, aimed at the arts and creative industries, was launched in July 2017.

The Arts and Creative Industries Business Growth Package is designed to support Torres Strait businesses that rely on ‘creativity’ as their primary source of value. The package targets new and existing businesses seeking to build on traditional arts and culture as well as those looking to develop other businesses, across six creative industries segments: music, visual and performing arts; film, television and radio; architecture and design; advertising and marketing; software and digital content; and writing and publishing. More information on the REIS can found in Section 2 of this report.

Workplace Health and Safety

In the reporting period the TSRA continued to maintain and meet its obligations under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth). The TSRA has in place an active Workplace Health and Safety Committee with representation from all of the TSRA’s designated work groups. In 2017-2018, there was only one notification made to Comcare under the Act. More details on work health and safety can be found in Section 4 of this report.

Left to right: Mr Stephen Wilton, Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) CEO, Mr Edward Newman, NPARC Mayor, Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, TSRA Chairperson, and Mr Wayne See Kee, TSRA CEO, at the signing of the MOU between the TSRA and the NPARC

Local Government Memorandum of Understanding

During the reporting period, the TSRA formally executed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the NPARC. The MOU strengthens the collaboration between the TSRA and the NPARC and formalises the ongoing working relationships until 2020. It also commits the two organisations to formally identify and coordinate joint strategic objectives, particularly to improve community health and wellbeing, plan future regional services and infrastructure development, and pursue opportunities for sustainable economic development.

Our Workforce

At a Glance

The TSRA workforce has increased from 159 to 162 since the previous reporting period. Of those staff, 122 are Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people. The TSRA has one of the highest percentages of Indigenous employment (just over 75 per cent) of any government entity. This is an achievement we are proud of. The TSRA also maintains a good gender balance, with 82 males and 80 females in its workforce.

Opportunities

The TSRA continues to provide internal opportunities for the training and development of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal staff to increase their capacity and skills so they can apply for higher level positions not only in the TSRA but across the Australian Public Service. The TSRA also provides external opportunities and support for local community members through our leadership capacity building initiatives and the Assistance with Tertiary Education Scheme, which targets university students from the region. More information on these initiatives can be found in Section 2 of this report.

THE TSRA PROVIDES EXTERNAL OPPORTUNITIES AND SUPPORT FOR LOCAL COMMUNITY MEMBERS THROUGH OUR LEADERSHIP CAPACITY BUILDING INITIATIVES AND THE ASSISTANCE WITH TERTIARY EDUCATION SCHEME, WHICH TARGETS UNIVERSITY STUDENTS FROM THE REGION.

Outlook

Financial

The TSRA has secured a budget appropriation that will enable it to maintain the existing programmes and service levels in the region in the coming financial year. The TSRA has also secured external non-appropriation funding for specific initiatives, such as further purchases of licences held by the Transferrable Vessel Holder sector of the tropical rock lobster fishery. Details on TSRA financial performance over the reporting period are contained in Section 5 of this report.

Torres Strait Development Plan

The TSRA Board is working closely with the administration to finalise the new Torres Strait Development Plan for 2019-2022 in the 2018-2019 financial year. The new Development Plan will replace the existing Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018 when it expires in 2018. A series of workshops were held in the reporting period to develop the Board’s priorities and programme mandates for inclusion in the new Development Plan.

Acknowledgement

I am proud of the achievements and progress we have made throughout 2017-2018. My appointment as Chief Executive Officer comes to an end at the end of this reporting period, after which I will be moving to another role in the Australian Government. I have been privileged to lead the TSRA administration as Chief Executive Officer since 2004-2005.

I would particularly like to thank the Chairperson, Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, Board members and administration staff for their ongoing valuable contribution and commitment to the TSRA, and acknowledge the great work that they perform every day. They are making a real difference to the communities in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.

It has been a true honour for me to serve the TSRA and our communities in this very important role – I cannot express how proud I am and always will be of the agency.

I wish the incoming Chief Executive Officer every success in working with the Board and administration to continue to build on our achievements in the coming year.

I also acknowledge the Elders, Traditional Owners, Native Title Prescribed Bodies Corporate, local government councillors and communities of the region for the support and hospitality extended to the TSRA when we visit your communities.

Wayne See Kee
Chief Executive Officer

Outcomes and Planned Performance

This section provides details of performance against the key performance indicators contained in the TSRA Portfolio Budget Statements 2017-2018.

This is followed by additional reporting on other activities undertaken by the TSRA’s programme areas:

Economic Development

Fisheries

Culture, Art and Heritage

Native Title

Environmental Management

Governance and Leadership

Healthy Communities

Safe Communities.

Each programme report provides the following information:

a statement of the regional goal, programme outcomes and projects and initiatives set out in the Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018

a summary of expenditure

a summary of performance.

The Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018 was developed by the TSRA as required by section 142D of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth). The plan outlines eight TSRA programmes, listing the desired outcomes and benefits to be delivered. The Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018 is published on the TSRA website (www.tsra.gov.au).

The Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018 is derived directly from the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Plan 2009-2029. The regional plan was developed by the TSRA, the Torres Shire Council (TSC), the Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) and the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC), in consultation with Torres Strait communities. The regional plan captures community challenges, priorities and aspirations. A key element of the regional plan is its focus on integrated development planning and Integrated Service Delivery. This process aims to coordinate the effective delivery of a range of government services to local communities while ensuring that duplication and service gaps are minimised.

Integrated Planning Framework

FIGURE 2-1
TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY INTEGRATED PLANNING FRAMEWORK

Summary of Financial Performance

Appropriation programme expenditure

A summary of the TSRA’s financial performance for each programme area for 2017-2018 is provided in Table 2-1.

The financial statements in Section 5 provide further information about expenditure for each programme area as of 30 June 2018.

Table 2-1

Appropriation Programme Expenditure, Budget Compared to Actual, 2017–2018

Programme | Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
Economic Development | 10,073 | 10,079 | –6
Fisheries | 2,169 | 2,171 | –2
Culture, Art and Heritage | 4,221 | 4,247 | –26
Native Title | 5,556 | 5,559 | –3
Environmental Management | 5,054 | 4,606 | 448
Governance and Leadership | 5,315 | 5,318 | –3
Healthy Communities | 3,330 | 3,332 | –2
Safe Communities | 2,660 | 2,661 | –1
Total | 38,378 | 37,973 | 405
Note: The total variance represents 1.1 per cent of the total budget.

External funding programme expenditure

Table 2-2

External Funding Programme Expenditure, Budget Compared to Actual, 2017-2018

Programme | Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
Fisheries | 3,750 | 2,800 | 950
Culture, Art and Heritage | 490 | 490 | –
Native Title | – | 196 | –196
Environmental Management | 12,944 | 10,592 | 2,352
Total | 17,184 | 14,078 | 3,106

Annual Performance Statements

Introductory Statement

The TSRA Board, as the accountable authority of the TSRA, presents the 2017-2018 annual performance statements of the TSRA, as required under section 39(1)(a) of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (Cth). In the Board’s opinion, these annual performance statements accurately reflect the performance of the TSRA and comply with section 39(2) of the Act.

Napau Pedro Stephen AM
Chairperson

Purpose

The purpose of the TSRA is encapsulated in the agency’s single outcome statement:

PROGRESS TOWARDS CLOSING THE GAP FOR TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER AND ABORIGINAL PEOPLE LIVING IN THE TORRES STRAIT REGION THROUGH DEVELOPMENT PLANNING, COORDINATION, SUSTAINABLE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, AND PRESERVATION AND PROMOTION OF INDIGENOUS CULTURE.

Results for Key Performance Indicators and Analysis

The key performance indicators for the TSRA were set out on page 305 of the Prime Minister and Cabinet Portfolio Budget Statements 2017-2018 and page 9 of the TSRA Corporate Plan 2017-2018.

Increase in the number of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal owned commercially viable businesses

In 2017-2018, five business loans were approved to support Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal businesses.

In the same period, business mentoring and support was provided to 11 clients.

Four Business Growth Package applications were received and two were approved.

Table 2-3

Number and Value of Concessional Business Loans

Year | 2013-2014 | 2014-2015 | 2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018
Loans | 3 | 5 | 1 | 2 | 5
Amount | $114,909 | $928,213 | $20,628 | $162,000 | $647,151

Increased availability of approved business training

The TSRA continued to provide face-to-face business training through the delivery of Into Business Workshops.

In 2017-2018, four series of Into Business Workshops were delivered (comprising workshops A, B and C); 113 participants attended the workshops and 26 participants completed the workshop series.

This represents an increase in the numbers of participants who attended and completed the workshop series when compared to 2016-2017. Post-course surveys indicate a very high level of participant satisfaction with the workshops.

Table 2-4

Into Business Workshops Participation

Year | 2013-2014 | 2014-2015 | 2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018
Courses | 6 | 2 | 16 | 18 | 12
Participants | 24 | 17 | 79 | 110 | 113

Increases in catches by Torres Strait and Aboriginal Fishers relative to total allowable catch, strengthening claims for increased ownership

Progress against this indicator cannot be accurately quantified as the requirement to complete daily catch logbooks is not mandatory for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal fishers in the region. Therefore comprehensive data to measure tangible outcomes under this indicator does not yet exist.

The Protected Zone Joint Authority (PZJA) brought in a mandatory fish receiver system for all Torres Strait fisheries except the prawn fishery from 1 December 2017. Licensed Torres Strait commercial fishers are now only able to dispose of their catch to licensed receivers. This will increase the accuracy of data for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal fishers in the region for future fishing seasons.

There are ongoing discussions within the PZJA to identify and implement opportunities for better data collection; however, this is likely to be a medium-to-long-term outcome and remains a challenge for the TSRA and the PZJA.

The best available data can be obtained from the Fisheries Status Reports produced by the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences.

One complete season of data is available for the tropical rock lobster (TRL) fishery, noting that in 2017-2018 the fishing season ran from 1 December 2017 to 31 July 2018 due to an early closure.

The total allowable catch (TAC) for the TRL fishery for the 2017-2018 fishing season was 254,150 kilograms, and was slightly over-caught (a total of 260,303 kilograms was caught). The Traditional Inhabitant Boat sector took over 49 per cent of the TAC for the season (see Table 2-5).

Table 2-5

Tropical Rock Lobster Catch Statistics

Year | 2013-2014 | 2014-2015 | 2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018
Traditional Inhabitant Boat (TIB) Catch (Tonnes) | 204.6 | 196.2 | 266.1 | 106.4 | 127.0
Total Allowable Catch (TAC) | 415.8 | 519.3 | 537.3 | 334.1 | 254.15
TIB Catch Share of TAC (%) | 49.21 | 37.78 | 49.52 | 31.85 | 49.97

Note: Fishery statistics are provided by fishing season, unless otherwise indicated. The tropical rock lobster fishing season is 1 December to 30 September.

Catch reporting for the Traditional Inhabitant Boat sector is in transition and therefore actuals for any year are likely to be higher than reported.

Table 2-6

Finfish Fisheries Catch Statistics for Traditional Inhabitant Boat Licensees

Year | 2014-2015 | 2015-2016 | 2016-2017
Finfish (Coral Trout and Spanish Mackerel) (Tonnes) | < 1 | < 1 | 2

Note: Fishery statistics are provided by fishing season, unless otherwise indicated. The finfish fishing season is 1 July to 30 June.

Catch reporting for the Traditional Inhabitant Boat sector is in transition and therefore actuals for any year are likely to be higher than reported.

Table 2-7

Bêche-de-mer Catch Statistics for Traditional Inhabitant Boat Licensees

Year | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017
Bêche-de-mer (Tonnes) | 49 | 71 | 14 | 20.4

Note: Fishery statistics are provided by fishing season, unless otherwise indicated. The bêche-de-mer fishing season is 1 January to 31 December.

Catch reporting for the Traditional Inhabitant Boat sector is in transition and therefore actuals for any year are likely to be higher than reported.

The percentage ownership of Torres Strait Commercial Fisheries by Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal People in the region

Table 2-8

Percentage of Torres Strait Commercial Fishery Ownership, 2017-2018

Fishery | Ownership Percentage
Tropical Rock Lobster | 66.17 (provisional allocation under the management plan)
Finfish | 100
Bêche-de-mer | 100
Trochus and Crab | 100
Prawn | Nil

Increase in the number of emerging and professionally active artists and cultural practitioners that have access to information and support to ensure copyright and intellectual property rights

The TSRA conducted the annual Artist Forum in March 2018. The forum considered a wide range of topics, covering resilience and confidence, developing a capability statement, service agreements including copyright, communication, registering for an Australian Business Number and registering with Supply Nation, as well as presentations on the Indigenous Art Code, the Flying Arts Alliance, UMI Arts and the Copyright Agency.

Table 2-9

Active Artists and Cultural Practitioners

Year | 2013-2014 | 2014-2015 | 2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018
Active Artists | 100 | 110 | 117 | 151 | 156
Cultural Practitioners | 77 | 80 | 90 | 85 | 30

Number of Native Title claims successfully determined

The Native Title Representative Body (NTRB) in the Torres Strait is operating predominantly in a post-determination environment with 29 Native Title claims successfully determined.

The claims currently being determined within the region are:

QUD6040/2001 Torres Strait Regional Sea Claim (Part B)

QUD6005/2002 Warral and Ului

QUD266/2008 Kaurareg People #1

QUD267/2008 Kaurareg People #2

QUD362/2010 Kaurareg People #3.

Of the 260 Future Acts notices received, responses have been provided to 258.

Table 2-10

Key Native Title Representative Body Results

Year | 2013-2014 | 2014-2015 | 2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018
Active Native Title Claims under Consideration | 3 | 2 | 5 | 5 | 5
Future Acts Notices Received | 64 | 85 | 66 | 205 | 260

Number of Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUA) that have compensation or other benefits as part of ILUA terms

There were eight Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUAs) registered with the National Native Title Tribunal in 2017-2018.

A further five ILUAs were executed by the parties in 2017-2018. These have been lodged with the National Native Title Tribunal for registration.

An additional 17 ILUAs have been completed and are awaiting execution. Six more ILUAs are being actively negotiated.

Table 2-11

Number of Indigenous Land Use Agreements Finalised

Year | 2013-2014 | 2014-2015 | 2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018
Indigenous Land Use Agreements Finalised | 4 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 13

Number of endorsed community based management plans for the natural and cultural resources of the region being actively implemented

Dugong and turtle management plans are in place for each of the 14 outer island communities and are being implemented by the communities with the support of the TSRA. The plans integrate traditional use and contemporary science and management approaches to support the sustainable management of dugong and turtle across the region. Each plan is currently undergoing review to bring more strength to traditional ways of governing the cultural protocols and management arrangements for use of dugong and turtle resources.

A dugong and turtle management plan and permit system for the Kaiwalagal region has been developed by Kaurareg Traditional Owners with support from the TSRA. Kaurareg Traditional Owners are now working towards endorsing the plan and determining how it can be implemented, also with support from the TSRA.

A biosecurity plan for the region has been drafted and will be launched in late August. Pest animal plans have been completed for four communities and pest animal control work has been implemented in those communities.

Working on Country plans are also in place for all communities. These were developed in partnership with key stakeholder groups in the individual communities.

Table 2-12

Community-based Management Plans

Year | 2013-2014 | 2014-2015 | 2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018
Management Plans | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 37

Increase the level of engagement of elected Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal leaders in policy development and decision-making

The primary indicator of the level of engagement is the number of meetings between the elected members of the TSRA and government ministers. This includes engagements by the TSRA Chairperson and Board members during visits to Canberra, as well as the TSRA Board’s engagement with ministers during their visits to the region. In this reporting period, there were 20 high-level engagements with Queensland Government and Australian Government ministers and senior government officials.

Table 2-13

High-level Engagements by TSRA Board Members

Year | 2013-2014 | 2014-2015 | 2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018
Engagements | 29 | 35 | 36 | 41 | 20

Number of PBCs that achieve Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC) compliance as at 31 December each year

Twenty regional Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBCs) have met the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations compliance requirements.

Two PBCs have maintained a level of capacity which has reduced their dependency on grant funding by operating on a fee-for-service cost recovery model.

Table 2-14

Prescribed Bodies Corporate Compliance Results

Year | 2013-2014 | 2014-2015 | 2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018
Compliance | 20 of 20 | 21 of 21 | 21 of 21 | 21 of 21 | 20 of 21

Increased investment into new and existing regional environmental health infrastructure

The Australian Government and Queensland Government have provided $30 million for the Major Infrastructure Programme Stage 6 (MIP 6). Scope of works and design reports have been finalised for most MIP 6 projects. Tendering is complete or nearing completion and the staged construction programme has commenced, with 12 projects to be delivered.

The TSRA continues to fund a range of minor infrastructure projects. To date, the three regional councils have received funding for over 20 projects, including storm water and drainage upgrades, public toilets and a waste landfill site.

Improve regional environmental health, telecommunications and marine infrastructure

The TSRA secured $6 million in infrastructure funding from the Australian Government for the Prince of Wales Safe Landing Facility project, which will provide safe access for the community. The TSC is seeking development approval for the safe landing facility.

In June 2018, Telstra announced the successful completion of the $8.26 million Torres Strait Digital Foundation Project. The project commenced in January 2017 and has significantly improved the standard of communications available to residents of the Torres Strait region. The second phase of the project, known as the Torres Strait Digital Expansion Project, is valued at $15.62 million ($7.09 million from Telstra and $8.53 million from co-contributors).

The TSRA will continue to work with Telstra and all levels of government to seek additional funding to ensure that the telecommunications infrastructure in the Torres Strait region is capable of delivering the technology and innovation needed to protect our borders and deliver multiple socioeconomic, educational, health and community safety outcomes for the island communities and people of the Torres Strait region.

Since 2011, the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDS) has been a co-funded initiative of the TSRA and the Queensland Government Department of Transport and Main Roads (DTMR). The TSRA contributes $500,000 annually to the scheme under a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the department.

In 2017-2018, TIDS funding was approved for the TSIRC to contribute to the Hammond Island wharf upgrade.

Economic Development

Regional Goal

Enhance our region’s wealth by creating sustainable industries and increasing employment opportunities for our people equivalent to the wider Australian community.

Programme Outcomes

Increased capability of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the region to manage commercially viable businesses.

Improved access to capital and other opportunities to finance commercially viable businesses.

Increased number of commercially viable businesses owned and or operated by Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the region.

Improved wealth of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the region.

Projects and Initiatives

Concessional home loans.

Concessional business loans.

Business training.

Business support services.

Programme Expenditure 2017-2018

TABLE 2-15

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME EXPENDITURE, 2017-2018

Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
10,073 | 10,079 | –6

Programme Performance

Activity | Flag | Status

Business mentoring support

Business mentoring support was approved for 11 clients in 2017-2018 to assist with organisational capacity building. The TSRA promoted the benefits of the business support standing panel to stakeholders throughout the year, resulting in an increase in the number of clients accessing the service.

Nine business owners were supported to attend conferences for professional development and to build business networks. Three attended the eighth Indigenous Economic Development Forum and six attended the 2018 Supply Nation Connect knowledge forum and trade show.

This represents a 10 per cent decrease in the number of clients supported when compared to 2016-2017.

Business funding support | [picture] | Five loan applications were approved.
Community Development Programme agreement management | [picture] | In July 2018, there were 889 Community Development Programme (CDP) job seekers. This represents a fall of 76 job seekers when compared to 2016-2017. During 2017-2018, 242 job seekers transitioned into paid employment. The regional employment target was met in each reporting period in 2017-2018.

Economic Development Investment Strategy

The Torres Strait Regional Economic Investment Strategy (REIS) continued in 2017-2018.

REIS supports three focal industries: Fisheries; Arts and Creative Industries; and Tourism.

As part of REIS, the Arts and Creative Industries Business Growth Package was launched. The package provides a combination of low-interest business loans, professional business support and grant funding for eligible applicants.

Four Fisheries Business Growth Package applications were received and two were approved in 2017-2018.

Work on a Tourism Industries Business Growth Package is underway and the package will be launched in 2018.

Into Business Workshops

Four series of Into Business Workshops were delivered (comprising workshops A, B and C); 113 participants attended the workshops and 26 participants completed the workshop series.

The number of participants who attended workshops and the number who completed the workshop series were both higher than in 2016-2017.

Torres Strait Maritime Pathways Project

The Torres Strait Maritime Pathways Project enhances the skills and capability of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people (in the region) to operate commercial vessels and create maritime career pathways in related industries.

In 2017-2018, participants undertook training as follows:

65 participants commenced and completed the Shipboard Safety Skill Set course

33 participants commenced and completed the Marine Radio course

45 participants commenced and completed the Senior First Aid course

41 participants commenced and 39 completed the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 2 Near Coastal)

five participants commenced and four completed the Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Master up to 24 Metres Near Coastal)

24 participants commenced and 23 completed the Certificate III in Fishing Operations

13 participants commenced and completed the Wild Harvest Dive course.

Growing Our Own Tagai Transitions Maritime project

The Growing Our Own Tagai Transitions Maritime project was delivered in partnership with the TSRA, Tagai State College, TAFE North Queensland, and the CDP provider, My Pathway.

This project targets students in years 10, 11 and 12 at Tagai State College and builds their capability to utilise the region’s commercial maritime resources, and prepares school leavers for a smooth transition from school to work.

In the first six months of 2017-2018:

12 students completed the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal)

eight students completed the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal)

12 students completed the Senior First Aid course

12 students completed the Shipboard Safety Skill Set course

12 students completed the Certificate I in Maritime Operations (General Purpose Hand Near Coastal).

Of those students, 75 per cent transitioned into employment upon completion of Year 12.

Between 1 January 2018 and 30 June 2018, a new cohort of students commenced the Growing Our Own Tagai Transitions Maritime project.

Six Year 10 students completed the Shipboard Safety Skill Set course and the Certificate I in Maritime Operations (General Purpose Hand).

Fourteen Year 11 students completed the Shipboard Safety Skill Set course, started to accumulate sea time and completed task books for Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) and Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal).

Twelve Year 12 students completed the Short Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency, continued to accumulate sea time and commenced:

the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal)

task books for the Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal) certificates.

The TSRA and partners are planning more projects, including Growing Our Own Tagai Transitions Maritime 2019.

Home Ownership Programme

One home loan was approved in 2017-2018. Complex land tenure arrangements in the Torres Strait continue to make it difficult for loan applicants to provide appropriate security for loans in Deed of Grant in Trust and reserve communities.

A funding agreement between the TSRA and Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) continues. Under the agreement the TSRA provides funds to IBA to write home loans for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living in the region.

Employment and training projects

The TSRA works in partnership with My Pathway, local shires and PBCs to deliver employment and training projects in the region.

These projects provide industry-specific training to CDP job seekers while also benefiting the wider community.

Five projects were undertaken in 2017-2018, including:

the St Pauls Community Hall completion

the Kubin Community Hall repairs

the Mabuyag Community Hall upgrade

the Thursday Island Cycleway (Stage One)

a mentors employment project.

To showcase the projects’ success, the TSRA engaged One Blood Hidden Image Entertainment Group (OBHI) to develop and produce good news story videos. OBHI is the only established, locally owned music and film company in the region and is registered with Supply Nation.

St Pauls Community Hall and Kubin Community Hall

In early 2017 there was an identified need on Moa Island to repair the existing Kubin Community Hall and complete the St Pauls Community Hall. To undertake these projects, the TSRA formed a partnership with the asset owner; the TSIRC; and My Pathway.

A local Indigenous contractor was awarded the construction contract. Six job seekers gained employment: three in the construction industry and three as mentors. Ten CDP job seekers obtained a Certificate II in Construction Pathways as part of the project.

The halls will be officially opened in August 2018.

Mabuyag Community Hall

The renovation of the Mabuyag Community Hall is the result of a partnership between the TSRA, the TSIRC and My Pathway.

The Mabuyag Community Hall upgrade is complete and the hall was re-opened on 1 June 2018.

Thursday Island Cycleway

The Thursday Island Cycleway (Stage One) project is part of a multi-phased project led by the TSC. Project partners include the TSRA, the DTMR and My Pathway.

Stage One involved provision of a 1.5-kilometre cycleway from the Thursday Island Secondary Campus zebra crossing to the Rose Hill boat ramp. The 10-month project was completed in June 2018.

In total, 14 CDP job seekers trained on this project transitioned into paid employment in the construction industry. Nine CDP job seekers completed a Certificate III in Concreting.

The TSRA has entered into a partnership with the TSC and the DTMR to fund Stage Two of the Thursday Island Cycleway as an opportunity for continued employment and as a training venue for CDP job seekers.

Mentors employment project

The TSRA funds mentors to provide specialised knowledge and cultural support to those participating in the employment and training projects.

Future projects

Plans are underway with partners for projects including:

the Wongai Multipurpose Courts upgrade on Thursday Island

the Torres Strait Islanders Media Association radio station refurbishment on Thursday Island

renovation of the guesthouse on Mer

renovation of the business centre on Badu

the Thursday Island Cycleway (Stage Two)

the Ken Brown Oval extension on Thursday Island.

Tourism

In 2017-2018, the TSRA funded an Events Coordinator position for the TSIRC, and continued to fund Events Coordinator positions for the TSC and the NPARC.

The funding is provided for three years to allow for employment certainty and longer-term planning.

In addition, the TSRA funded three multi-year Tourism Officer positions, one each for the TSC, TSIRC and NPARC, in 2017-2018.

To develop stronger ties with Tourism Tropical North Queensland in the region, the TSRA has funded a Tourism Coordinator position. This position is dedicated solely to supporting the region’s efforts in enhancing the tourism/visitor economy for a two-year period.

Website redesign | [picture] | The Economic Development Programme area of the TSRA website has undergone further improvement to enhance the user experience. The website now includes additional online applications, up-to-date information from across government and the private sector, and a modified online product selector tool.

Additional Programme Specific Performance Indicators

Indicator | Flag | Status

An increase in the number of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in employment

In 2017-2018, 242 CDP job seekers moved from welfare into employment. Of those, 196 job seekers met employment outcome milestones:

13 week outcome – 116 CDP job seekers.

26 week outcome – 80 CDP job seekers.

Job placements were in the following industries:

government (includes councils) – 38

retail – 29

employment services – 38

education – 30

hospitality – 13

aged care – 12

construction/labour – 52

service – 9

transport – 1

other – 20.

The overall job placement number has decreased. Fewer job seekers remained in work for a minimum of 26 weeks in 2017-2018 than in 2016-2017.

Increase in the number of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal owned commercially viable businesses | [picture] | In 2017-2018, five business loans were approved to support Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal owned businesses. In the same period, business mentoring and support were provided to 11 clients. Four Fisheries Business Growth Package applications were received and two were approved.

Increased availability of approved business training

In 2017-2018, the TSRA continued to provide face-to-face business training through the delivery of Into Business Workshops.

A total of 113 participants attended Into Business Workshops:

52 attended Workshop A

35 attended Workshop B

26 attended Workshop C.

A total of 26 participants completed the Into Business Workshop series. Post-course surveys indicate a very high level of participant satisfaction with the workshops.

The attendance rate reflects an increase when compared to the previous year.

Legend

Not yet started | Completed/ on schedule | Behind schedule less than three months | Behind schedule more than three months

Case Study:
Mabuyag Island Community Hall Upgrade Project

The Mabuyag Community Hall upgrade project demonstrates the TSRA’s commitment to economic development and wealth creation in the region. The project provided Community Development Programme (CDP) job seekers with practical on-the-job development and training aligned to the needs of the local building industry.

Project partners

The renovation of the Mabuyag Community Hall was the result of a partnership between the TSRA, the Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC), and the CDP provider, My Pathway.

As the building’s owner, the TSIRC made a request to the TSRA to fund the upgrade of the Mabuyag Community Hall as a priority infrastructure project in early 2017, following a building report which rendered the hall unusable. In response, the TSRA invested over $305,000 from the Economic Development Programme to see it upgraded.

Before and after photos of the Mabuyag Community Hall

Outcomes for job seekers

The project provided important work experience, training and employment opportunities for local people in the region. Five CDP job seekers were employed as construction labourers and three as mentors. Ten CDP job seekers obtained a nationally recognised construction qualification that will assist them to find future employment in the construction industry.

Local Indigenous contractor Country Pride Construction was awarded the contract for the project. Mr Kevin Savage, Project Manager of Country Pride Construction, said that working in collaboration with the TSRA, TSIRC and My Pathway offered the opportunity to empower the community to find ways to do the work locally.

‘It was a great way to exchange knowledge, grow industry networks and build a community database to connect workers and employers in the region’, Mr Savage said.

Some highlights for the team were overcoming shame factors through mentoring and positive reinforcement, developing new construction skills, and achieving the high level of workmanship that was expected on the project.

Mr Kevin Savage, Project Manager, Country Pride Construction

‘At the start of the project it was a big learning curve for the job seekers’, Mr Savage said.

‘They all had their individual challenges to overcome, including family commitments, and it was rewarding to see them meet these challenges during the project and resolve some personal issues.

‘Together we have trained the CDP job seekers, so they have the skills and confidence to work in construction anywhere in Australia.’

Benefits for the community

The TSRA Chairperson, Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, said that the TSRA understands that the Mabuyag Community Hall is an essential structure in which local people can meet to hold community events and engage in Ailan Kastom.

‘The TSRA welcomed the request from Goemulgaw (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation in October 2017 to also fund the cooking and dancing Zar Zars’, Mr Stephen said.

‘The project has reinvigorated an important asset for the Mabuyag Island community, whilst providing important workplace training and employment opportunities for local people.’

The re-opening of the Mabuyag Community Hall was celebrated in a joint event with the 10-year anniversary of the TSIRC amalgamation, on Friday, 1 June 2018.

To showcase the success of this project across the Torres Strait community and beyond, the TSRA engaged the video production services of locally owned music and film company One Blood Hidden Image Entertainment Group.

The dancing and cooking Zar Zars

The Kigu Dance Troop performing at the celebration of the hall’s re-opening

Fisheries

Regional Goal

Enhance our region’s wealth, by managing and maintaining sustainable fishing industries and increasing employment and economic opportunities for our people.

Programme Outcomes

A commercially viable fishing industry which is 100 per cent owned by Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people.

Improved wealth of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people of the region.

Sustainable management of fisheries resources.

Projects and Initiatives

Engaging in the PZJA and supporting the engagement of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in PZJA decision-making.

Providing opportunities to develop the capability and capacity of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people to benefit from fisheries in the region.

Assisting communities to engage in programme activities.

Managing access to fisheries resources held in trust for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people of the region.

Programme Expenditure 2017-2018

TABLE 2-16

FISHERIES PROGRAMME EXPENDITURE, 2017-2018

Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
2,169 | 2,171 | –2

Programme External Funding Expenditure 2017-2018

TABLE 2-17

FISHERIES PROGRAMME EXTERNAL FUNDING EXPENDITURE, 2017-2018

Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
3,750 | 2,800 | 950

Programme Performance

Activity | Flag | Status

Fisheries communications

In 2017-2018, the TSRA continued grant funding support for registered Torres Strait fishers’ associations to assist them to develop their capacity to represent the interests of fishers in their communities. Properly functioning associations can play a key role in providing effective communications on fisheries matters within communities.

Research and extension

The Fisheries Programme’s research and extension projects support sustainability and commercial use of Torres Strait fisheries.

Project initiatives undertaken in 2017-2018 were designed to implement the recommendations of the region’s finfish action plan. The plan is focused on helping people to overcome barriers to entry into commercial fishing and increase their participation in fisheries and fisheries-related commercial activities.

In 2017-2018, the programme:

completed a feasibility study into the development of a new baitfish fishing industry

completed an audit of existing fisheries infrastructure and infrastructure shortfalls in the region, securing investment through the Indigenous Advancement Strategy to invest in new infrastructure projects

commenced, in partnership with the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation, a project to investigate the feasibility of directly exporting fisheries products from the Torres Strait and the potential for a value-add brand for Torres Strait seafood.

The TSRA also partnered with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) to support the completion in 2017-2018 of Procedural Framework for Researchers in the Torres Strait, a revised guide for researchers to enable them to better engage with Traditional Owners when planning and undertaking research in the Torres Strait.

Fisheries roadmap–towards 100 per cent ownership

The TSRA has the lead on behalf of the PZJA for the development of the fisheries roadmap towards 100 per cent ownership of the commercial fisheries by Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Traditional Owners.

In 2017-2018, the TSRA purchased one non-Indigenous fishing licence in the TRL fishery, increasing the provisional Traditional Inhabitant ownership to be allocated under a quota-based management plan to 66.17 per cent of the Australian share of the fishery.

Currently, the TSRA owns 100 per cent of the finfish and bêche-de-mer fisheries on behalf of Traditional Inhabitants and does not have ownership of the prawn fishery.

Capacity building and training

The Fisheries Programme delivers projects that increase the capacity of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the region to participate in commercial fishing activities.

In 2017-2018, the TSRA sponsored two participants who completed the National Seafood Industry Leadership Programme and another who commenced the programme. The TSRA created a Fisheries Cadetship and recruited a cadet in the Fisheries Programme, and supported seven participants in a three-day scientific workshop hosted by CSIRO in Brisbane.

Finfish quota management

Each year since 2008 the TSRA has leased licences in the finfish fishery to non-Indigenous fishers. The aim of leasing licences to non-Indigenous fishers is to maintain markets until the Traditional Inhabitant Boat licence sector can increase its catch and meet market demand.

The Fisheries Programme provides support to the TSRA Board and the Finfish Quota Management Committee to facilitate the leasing process. In 2017-2018, the committee recommended that licences for 110 tonnes of Spanish mackerel, 85 tonnes of coral trout and 17.5 tonnes of other species be leased out. Those leases generated $291,500 in revenue for Torres Strait communities.

Fisheries management framework

In 2017-2018, the Fisheries Programme supported a delegation of TSRA and Malu Lamar Regional Native Title Body Corporate representatives to travel to New Zealand to investigate further the community management model for fisheries assets applied by Maori in New Zealand.

The outcomes of the trip were presented to the TSRA Board, and a project steering committee was established to oversee the progression of a community management model for fisheries assets in the Torres Strait. The steering committee for this project includes the TSRA Chairperson, CEO, Portfolio Member for Fisheries and Member for Ugar, Member for Muralag and Ngurapai, and Member for Badu.

The steering committee, with assistance from Terra Moana (New Zealand), visited all communities in the Torres Strait to seek the mandate from communities for the TSRA to progress the establishment of a single regional entity, independent of the TSRA, to hold and manage fisheries assets. These project activities are continuing.

PZJA representation

In 2017-2018, the TSRA participated in and supported Traditional Inhabitant members’ participation in:

one PZJA Standing Committee meeting

one Scientific Advisory Committee meeting

two Tropical Rock Lobster Working Group meetings

three Tropical Rock Lobster Resource Assessment Group meetings

two Finfish Working Group meetings

two Finfish Resource Assessment Group meetings

one Finfish Harvest Strategy workshop

one Hand Collectables Working Group meeting

one Bêche-de-mer Harvest Strategy workshop

one Prawn Management Advisory Committee meeting.

Additional Programme Specific Performance Indicators

Indicator | Flag | Status

Increase in catches by Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal fishers relative to total allowable catch

The projects delivered by the TSRA Fisheries Programme are focused on increasing Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal participation in commercial fishing activities. In 2017-2018, catch reporting by Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal fishers in the Torres Strait was not mandatory and AFMA advised that there was no reliable data on catch reporting from this sector.

On 1 December 2017, the PZJA implemented a fish receival licensing system in Torres Strait fisheries. While this will not capture information on the catch and effort in the fishery to inform scientific assessments, it will start to provide reliable data on the total catches of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal fishers in the region in the next reporting period.

Number of opportunities for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people to increase their understanding and use of Torres Strait fisheries resources

This indicator is being met through the programme’s research and extension and capacity-building and training projects.

The TSRA continues to support the attendance and participation of up to five Traditional Inhabitant members in all PZJA consultative forums.

The indicator is also being met through the TSRA’s sponsorship of:

participants in the National Seafood Industry Leadership Programme – two completed the programme and one commenced in 2017-2018

an Indigenous fisheries cadet, who commenced in 2017-2018

participants in CSIRO scientific workshops – seven completed workshops in 2017-18.

Legend

Not yet started | Completed/ on schedule | Behind schedule less than three months | Behind schedule more than three months

Case Study:
Fisheries Infrastructure and Services Audit Develops Plan to Guide Future Funding

Successful commercial fishing enterprises in the Torres Strait rely on suitable infrastructure and services. However, a lack of on-shore infrastructure has been identified as a barrier to participation in the industry.

The TSRA Fisheries Programme works with Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal fishers and communities to identify viable business opportunities that will contribute to the improved wealth of Indigenous people in the region, a sustainable fishing industry owned and operated by Indigenous people, and sustainable management of natural resources.

As the quality and range of fishing-related infrastructure and services varies significantly between Torres Strait communities, the Fisheries Programme identified the need for a regional audit to guide maintenance and development and to facilitate the successful operation and growth of fishing businesses.

An infrastructure and services audit was undertaken in 2017-2018 to guide priority investment at the island, cluster and regional levels. The aim of the audit was to identify gaps and develop a plan to guide future investment in and maintenance of fisheries-related infrastructure and services, to increase participation and employment in fishing and related services.

The audit task included identifying the current state of infrastructure and services, the community’s needs and aspirations for additional infrastructure and services that will contribute to the programme’s outcomes, and a plan to address any shortfalls.

Between August and November 2017, all Torres Strait communities were visited and community consultations were undertaken by an external consultant, with additional key stakeholder meetings held on Thursday Island and in Cairns.

The key issues identified by the audit covered fishing-related infrastructure and services in the Torres Strait; fishing activity and potential fisheries production; and analysis of the infrastructure and services in individual communities.

Recommendations of the audit included:

establishing a single autonomous, independent body responsible for the ownership, management and governance of the fishery

implementing prioritised community recommendations

implementing small-scale maintenance and service facilities across outer island regions

establishing an inner island marine precinct

purchasing or leasing a primary fishing platform.

With the endorsement of the TSRA Board, a plan to guide the prioritisation of investment in infrastructure and services was produced and the Fisheries Programme secured $4.75 million in investment through the Indigenous Advancement Strategy to implement the outcomes of the audit.

Left to right: Karl Dai, William Stephen, Ewan Colquhoun, Kenny Bedford, Daniel Stephen, Jerry D Stephen Jr, Robert Modee, Shawn McAtamney, Rocky Stephen and Pau Stephen, at Ugar during the Fisheries Programme infrastructure and services audit

Culture, Art and Heritage

Regional Goal

Protect, promote, revitalise and maintain Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal traditions and cultural heritage.

Programme Outcomes

An active and sustainable arts and craft industry.

Cultural values and protocols are integrated into service planning and management practice.

The unique cultural heritage and histories of the region are preserved, maintained and promoted.

Strong, supported and respected Ailan Kastom.

The copyright, intellectual property and traditional knowledge of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the region are protected.

Projects and Initiatives

Cultural maintenance and observance.

Arts industry development.

Gateway/hub for presenting, preserving, promoting and providing education on Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal culture and arts.

Cultural heritage management (with links to the Environmental Management Programme).

Copyright and intellectual property rights.

Cultural values and protocols.

Programme Expenditure 2017-2018

TABLE 2-18

CULTURE, ART AND HERITAGE PROGRAMME EXPENDITURE, 2017-2018

Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
4,221 | 4,247 | –26

Programme External Funding Expenditure 2017-2018

TABLE 2-19

CULTURE, ART AND HERITAGE PROGRAMME EXTERNAL FUNDING EXPENDITURE, 2017-2018

Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
490 | 490 | –

Programme Performance

Activity | Flag | Status

Arts development programme

The TSRA continued to deliver arts development initiatives throughout the region in 2017-2018, including by providing operational and skills development support to the three regional art centres on Badu, Erub and Moa.

The TSRA hosted the annual Torres Strait Artist Forum on Thursday Island, providing 22 local emerging artists with information presented by industry specialists, including Supply Nation, the Indigenous Art Code, the Flying Arts Alliance, the Copyright Agency, UMI Arts and the Gab Titui Cultural Centre (GTCC).

In partnership with the Flying Arts Alliance, the TSRA engaged local artists in skills development workshops on textile and printable wear in the Northern Peninsula Area, traditional and contemporary weaving in Kubin, and batik on Thursday Island.

Culture, art and heritage grants

The TSRA Culture, Art and Heritage Programme supported a total of 24 grant applications in 2017-2018, contributing towards the promotion and maintenance of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal art and culture in the region.

Funded activities included skills development projects for artists and schools, traditional and contemporary music production and performing arts participation at events for individuals and groups, and language and cultural maintenance initiatives.

The programme also contributed to regionally significant events including Mabo Day and the 75th anniversary of the formation of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion.

Cultural maintenance programme

The TSRA acknowledges and respectfully observes and practises the region’s cultural protocols and Ailan Kastom through its programmes and initiatives delivered in communities. The TSRA continues to provide guidance on cultural protocols to Australian Government and Queensland Government departments and non-government stakeholders visiting the region.

Throughout 2017-2018, the TSRA supported initiatives on cultural maintenance, including by providing grant funding for participation by traditional music and dance groups at cultural events, and activities promoting and preserving cultural knowledge and traditions, such as publications and music productions.

The GTCC actively promotes cultural maintenance through exhibitions displayed in the Ephraim Bani Gallery. In 2017-2018, the exhibitions programme featured the Gab Titui Collection and the 75th Anniversary of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion exhibition.

Dance strategy

The TSRA continued to support and promote region-based traditional dance teams in 2017-2018, through opportunities such as the grant rounds, TSRA events and the TSRA Dance Strategy.

Events considered for the TSRA Dance Strategy were, collectively, the 2018 Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair, Darwin Festival, Cairns Indigenous Art Fair and the Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards. The successful dance teams were the Meriam dance team based on Thursday Island, Eip Karem Beizam, and Seisia Kayin Thithuyil.

Arts licensing and IP protection | [picture] | In 2017-2018, the GTCC engaged 25 artists under licence agreements for the use of their artwork images in publications and on art and craft products and merchandise developed by the centre, such as mugs, ties, magnets and the GTCC calendar.

Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award

The 2017 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award received 52 entries and attracted 300 people on opening night and more than 3,000 visitors over six weeks. The art award is a flagship event for the GTCC and TSRA and draws in members of the local community, leaders, curators, representatives of collection institutions and tourists, who visit Thursday Island specifically for this exhibition.

Gab Titui Cultural Centre – exhibitions/public programmes

Exhibitions

The GTCC exhibitions programme partnered with some of Australia’s leading galleries and museums to bring Torres Strait culture and arts to a wider audience nationally and internationally. The GTCC supported the National Gallery of Victoria and Cairns Art Gallery in the development of the Lei it On exhibition, which opened at the Cairns Art Gallery in July 2017.

In partnership with the National Museum of Australia, the Evolution: Torres Strait Masks exhibition has embarked on its national tour and opened at the Museum of Tropical Queensland. The exhibition will tour to Melbourne and several galleries and museums in Western Australia during 2018-2019.

Evolution: Torres Strait Masks also opened as a graphic panel display at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, as part of activities celebrating the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Australia and Vietnam.

Public Programmes

The GTCC offered a range of public programmes for visitors of all ages. The events were opportunities for active engagement with the community, external stakeholders and skilled Torres Strait artists and cultural practitioners. The public programme activities reflected the diversity of the communities and art forms throughout the Torres Strait. The activities either incorporated GTCC exhibitions or were themed around regional, national and international Indigenous commemorative occasions.

The 2017-2018 public programmes schedule of events included a seniors’ scrapbooking workshop with Home and Community Care Elders, a week-long workshop upskilling artists with the nationally acclaimed Indigenous Jewellery Project, an advanced lino-printing workshop conducted by master printer Theo Tremblay, themed school holiday programmes, community visits, and regular beading and weaving workshops.

The Torres Strait language strategy

In 2017-2018, the TSRA, in partnership with stakeholders, delivered initiatives in the Torres Strait Traditional Languages Plan 2016-2019 and Languages Charter, including an audit of traditional language speakers and the development of a languages website and an implementation plan to operate the Regional Language Centre.

The Torres Strait Traditional Language Advisory Committee, established in 2016-2017 to guide the implementation of the plan, participated in a number of activities in communities and at state and national forums – such as the Puliima National Indigenous Language and Technology Forum in Cairns, the National Indigenous Languages Convention on the Gold Coast, and the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Languages Forum in Rockhampton – to promote the maintenance of the traditional languages of Meriam Mir and Kala Lagaw Ya, and their respective dialects.

The TSRA is working closely with Tagai State College, and other stakeholders, to implement the Regional Language Centre operations and further delivery of language maintenance activities in communities.

Music strategy – Music and Dance Audit

The TSRA’s Music and Dance Audit works with the region’s communities to record and preserve traditional music, dance and cultural knowledge, compiling recordings into CD and DVD packages that are distributed to communities and archive institutions and promoted through the GTCC.

In 2017-2018, the TSRA and partners worked with three communities to complete their CD and DVD productions, and commenced planning for activities in the remaining two communities.

Legend

Not yet started | Completed/ on schedule | Behind schedule less than three months | Behind schedule more than three months

Case Study:
Exhibitions Celebrate First Australians’ Wartime Contributions

In March 2018, the TSRA Gab Titui Cultural Centre celebrated the 75th anniversary of the formation of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion by presenting two exhibitions to commemorate the occasion.

The Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion was formed in 1943, as over 800 Torres Strait Islanders – almost the entire male population of the Torres Strait – joined together as one against the threat of invasion from the north.

The historical contributions of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people to Australia’s armed forces were formidable but are often overlooked.

The 75th Anniversary of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion exhibition, curated by the Gab Titui Cultural Centre, was supported by the award-winning Shrine of Remembrance travelling exhibition, Indigenous Australians at war from the Boer War to the present.

Both exhibitions celebrated and uncovered the individual and family stories of service and sacrifice of the First Australians and acknowledged a significant part of the region’s history.

Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion veteran Mr Mebai Wasusum cutting the ribbon for the 75th Anniversary of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion exhibition

A squad of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion training on Thursday Island in 1945

Soldiers of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion C Company

Native Title

Regional Goal

Protect, maintain and progress Native Title rights and recognition over the region’s land and sea country.

Programme Outcomes

Changes to Native Title and Fisheries legislation which recognise the commercial rights as part of the Native Title rights of Traditional Owners under the Torres Strait Sea Claim Part A determination.

Successfully negotiated Future Acts and ILUAs.

Native Title claims are successfully determined.

PBCs understand and meet their responsibilities under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth).

Projects and Initiatives

Progress and successfully negotiate ILUAs.

Progress and successfully negotiate Native Title Claims.

Perform the functions of an NTRB under the Native Title Act.

Develop proposals regarding legislation that impacts on Native Title.

Build the capacity of Registered Native Title Bodies Corporate.

Programme Expenditure 2017-2018

TABLE 2-20

NATIVE TITLE PROGRAMME EXPENDITURE, 2017-2018

Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
5,556 | 5,559 | –3

Programme External Funding Expenditure 2017-2018

TABLE 2-21

NATIVE TITLE PROGRAMME EXTERNAL FUNDING EXPENDITURE, 2017-2018

Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
– | 196 | –196

Programme Performance

Activity | Flag | Status
Native Title compensation | [picture] | In 2017-2018, 13 ILUAs were successfully negotiated. The value of compensation for the agreements is approximately $1.465 million. Since 2005, 78 ILUAs have been registered. The value of compensation is approximately $3.881 million.
Deed of Grant in Trust (DOGIT) transfer | [picture] | There were no DOGIT transfers in 2017-2018. The transfer of DOGITs on four islands is currently under consideration by the Traditional Owners.

Land Holding Act (Katter Leases)

There are 330 Katter lease entitlements in the region.

The TSRA worked with the Queensland Government and the TSIRC and finalised Katter leases on Badu Island. This ILUA has been completed and awaits registration.

A recent Supreme Court decision has clarified that the grant of such leases would ordinarily extinguish Native Title. This poses significant challenges to Native Title in the region.

Major Infrastructure ILUA | [picture] | The Native Title Office has worked with the Queensland Government and the TSIRC and the parties have finalised the Major Infrastructure ILUA.
Management of Future Acts and ILUAs | [picture] | The Native Title Office received 260 Future Acts notices in 2017-2018. Responses have been provided to 258 of those notices.

Native Title claim
Sea Claim Part B (QUD6040/2001)

The NTRB has been assisting and facilitating the representation of the applicant and Indigenous respondents to this claim.

The Part B area is wholly overlapped by two claims. The western area of the claim is overlapped by a claim filed on behalf of the Kaurareg people and the eastern area is overlapped by a claim filed on behalf of the North Eastern people of Cape York.

The Badulgal, Mualgal and Kaurareg people have agreed that the western overlap is shared sea country. The TSRA is party to consent orders setting out the process for re-authorising the claim in 2018.

Negotiations with the Cape York Land Council about resolving the eastern overlap have commenced. Further anthropological research is required to identify the Traditional Owner group for the claim.

Native Title Conference | [picture] | The National Native Title Conference was held from 5 to 7 June 2018 in Broome. Native Title holders from the Torres Strait gave presentations and participated in a number of important sessions on Native Title developments in the region.
NTRB legal services | [picture] | The Native Title Office provides a wide range of legal assistance to the PBCs and Traditional Owners in the region upon request. Table 2-22 provides statistical information on the level of engagement in 2017-2018.

PBC support and capacity building

The Native Title Office provides support to 21 PBCs in the region to ensure that they maintain legislative compliance and can effectively engage with the Traditional Owners in their communities.

In 2017-2018, an MOU was signed between the TSRA and the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC). Under the MOU, an ORIC officer was based in the main office of the TSRA to assist in PBC capacity building and to carry out Rule Book Workshops throughout the region.

Additional Programme Specific Performance Indicators

Indicator | Flag | Status
Number of reported non-compliance matters involving PBCs | [picture] | There are no reported non-compliance matters for the region.
Number of DOGITs transferred to PBCs with appropriate support mechanisms | [picture] | There were no DOGIT transfers in 2017-2018.

Legend

Not yet started | Completed/ on schedule | Behind schedule less than three months | Behind schedule more than three months

Statistical Data

Table 2-22

Native Title Office Performance Statistics

Facilitation and assistance | Number
1. THE CLAIMS EXPERIENCE |
Claimant applications |
Active claims represented at 30 June 2017 | 2
Plus claims filed this year by Native Title Representative Body | 0
Less claims determined 2017-2018 | 0
Less claims dismissed 2017-2018 | 0
Less claims withdrawn 2017-2018 | 0
(+ or -) Other disposition | 0
Active claims represented at 30 June 2018 | 2
Number of active claims registered by National Native Title Tribunal | 0
Claims in development | 1
Non-claimant applications | 0
Compensation claims | 0
2. THE AGREEMENTS EXPERIENCE |
Future Acts notices received | 260
Responses to Future Acts notices | 258
Agreements concluded | 0
Agreements in development | 0
Indigenous Land Use Agreements concluded and registered | 8
Indigenous Land Use Agreements in development | 20
Complaints and disputes |
Complaints |
Received | 0
Resolved | 0
Pending | 0
Disputes relating to Native Title applications | 1
Disputes relating to ILUAs, rights of access and other matters | 5
Requests for review of decisions not to assist |
Requests received | 1
Reviews completed | 1
Requests for review of decisions to assist |
Requests received | 15
Requests approved | 15

Case Study:
National Native Title Conference – Many Laws, One Land

The 2018 National Native Title Conference – Many Laws, One Land: legal and political co-existence – was held in Broome, Western Australia, from 5 to 7 June.

The conference was convened by the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies and the Kimberley Land Council. It was hosted by the Yawuru people on their traditional lands.

Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, TSRA Chairperson, and Mr Eric Peter, TSRA Member for Boigu and Portfolio Member for Native Title, attended the conference, along with the TSRA’s Principal Legal Officer and Senior Legal Officer and a number of the Chairs of Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBCs) in the Torres Strait region.

As the conference marked 25 years since the passing of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth), participants discussed the challenges and opportunities of Native Title in the context of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s aspirations for their lands, waters and communities.

Native Title developments in the Torres Strait were discussed in a session entitled ‘Dispute resolution in the Torres Strait: How we combined the two laws and practices’. The speakers were Mr Ned David, Chair of Magani Lagaugal (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation Registered Native Title Body Corporate (RNTBC); Mr Keith Pabai, Chair of Malu Ki’ai (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation RNTBC; and Ms Cassie Lang, formerly of the TSRA Native Title Office and now a senior solicitor with Marrawah Law.

Between 2014 and 2017, the Queensland Government (through the Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships) negotiated Indigenous Land Use Agreements throughout the Torres Strait for land to construct social houses. The RNTBCs were required by Native Title regulations to comply with consultation and consent requirements; however, disputes often arose between Traditional Owners about who had authority to speak for the land.

Mr Eric Peter, TSRA Member for Boigu and Portfolio Member for Native Title, addressing the 2018 National Native Title Conference in Broome

Mr David explained how the Magani Lagaugal (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation (the PBC for Iama) resolved those disputes, using their traditional laws and customs and in accordance with their rule book, by establishing a dispute resolution council. Representatives were selected based on criteria developed by the community.

Mr Pabai explained how the Malu Ki’ai (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation (the PBC for Boigu) and the Boigu community resolved disputes by drawing their traditional boundaries and colour-coding their totem groups, then mapping them with assistance from the National Native Title Tribunal and the TSRA Native Title Office.

Environmental Management

Regional Goal

Our natural and cultural environment is an asset that is protected, preserved and enjoyed through sustainable management.

Programme Outcomes

Strengthened sustainable use, protection and management of natural and cultural resources.

Improved community adaptation to climate change impacts, including sea level rise.

Increased uptake of renewable energy for Torres Strait.

Support community sustainable horticulture.

Projects and Initiatives

Land:

Biodiversity planning and management

Invasive species

Sustainable horticulture

Environmental education.

Sea:

Turtle and dugong planning and management

Marine biodiversity

Water quality

State of the environment report card.

People:

Ranger project

Indigenous Protected Areas project

Traditional ecological knowledge project

Traditional owner engagement

Compliance project.

Coasts and climate:

Climate change adaptation and resilience

Renewable energy.

Programme Expenditure 2017-2018

TABLE 2-23

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME EXPENDITURE, 2017-2018

Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
5,054 | 4,606 | 448

Programme External Funding Expenditure 2017-2018

TABLE 2-24

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME EXTERNAL FUNDING EXPENDITURE, 2017-2018

Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
12,944 | 10,592 | 2,352

Programme Performance

Activity | Flag | Status

Invasive species management

The TSRA coordinated the development of the Torres Strait Regional Biosecurity Plan 2018-2023. Queensland Government funding was secured for a four-year project to manage feral animals and weeds on key islands across the region through a partnership approach with local government. Major weed programmes are underway to control leucaena, lantana and rubber bush on several islands, including Moa, Boigu, Saibai, Mer, Erub, Warraber and Dauan.

Invasive feral cat and rodent surveys have been conducted on 13 uninhabited islands in the Torres Strait. Aerial surveys have been conducted for wild horses and deer on three islands. The TSC has been contracted to conduct wild dog, feral cat and cane toad control programmes on Thursday Island and Horn Island.

The TSRA also entered a partnership agreement for shared service delivery with the Australian Government Department of Agriculture and Water Resources for the provision of biosecurity services, which has created fee-for-service opportunities for TSRA rangers. The TSRA also participates in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Biosecurity Working Group.

Sustainable horticulture project

The Environmental Management Programme works closely with the TSRA’s Healthy Communities and Safe Communities programmes to support communities with horticulture activities in the region.

A Regional Landcare Facilitator is employed to coordinate project activities, including facilitation of workshops on outer islands to provide practical and technical demonstrations on food gardening, to assist with the re-establishment of family garden plots and backyard gardens as well as the development and maintenance of plant nurseries. The Regional Landcare Facilitator provides a quarterly garden column in the Torres News, and supports the Thursday Island Garden Fair with a stall promoting traditional food gardening and sustainable practices.

Ranger project

The TSRA employs 45 rangers, as well as support staff, across 13 outer island communities.

Working on Country plans that were developed with Traditional Owners are in place to guide the local cultural and natural resource management activities of rangers, who participate in a comprehensive training programme to equip them for their scope of works.

A large part of the ranger programme is based on maritime operations and the programme operates nine vessels located across the region. Future prospects include roles in intelligence gathering and compliance activities.

Environmental education project

This project supports the employment of an Environmental Education Coordinator to lead and coordinate the development and delivery of environmental education programmes within Tagai State College campuses.

A school camp base has been established at Bamaga to support traditional knowledge transfer through teaching arts, crafts, cooking, dancing and hunting. Each school has received assistance and equipment to update and maintain school gardens.

Dugong and turtle management

Dugong and turtle management plans are in place for each of the 14 outer island communities and are being implemented by the communities with the support of the TSRA. The plans integrate traditional use and contemporary science and management approaches to support the sustainable management of dugong and turtle across the region.

Each plan is currently undergoing review to bring more strength to traditional ways of governing the cultural protocols and management arrangements for the use of dugong and turtle resources. A dugong and turtle management plan and permit system for the Kaiwalagal region has been development by Kaurareg Traditional Owners with support from the TSRA. Kaurareg Traditional Owners are now working towards endorsing the plan and determining how it can be implemented.

The TSRA Environmental Management Programme continues to lead annual turtle nesting and hatchling surveys at the index rookery for green turtles in the Torres Strait, and is undertaking survey and monitoring work for other species that nest and forage in the region.

Biodiversity planning and management

Baseline biodiversity surveys have been carried out on 13 inhabited islands and more than 20 uninhabited islands. A plant and animal book and video have been produced for Badu. Mangrove and water quality monitoring projects have been undertaken on Boigu and Saibai. Seasonal calendars are under development for two islands.

Marine ecosystem monitoring

Rangers have been trained in seagrass monitoring techniques and are actively carrying out intertidal monitoring in seven communities.

Coral surveys and assessments of the extent of coral bleaching have been undertaken. The TSRA continued to support rangers to conduct biannual surveys of coral reefs.

Remote weather stations at four locations across the region continued to be maintained and collect weather and marine data.

Research is underway to investigate the impacts of Fly River pollution on the marine resources of Torres Strait. The TSRA also participated in a recent shipping forum to consider the impacts of shipping in the region and risk mitigation options.

Indigenous Protected Areas (IPAs) project

Three IPAs have been declared and are being actively managed in the Torres Strait region: Ugul Malu Kawal IPA (previously Warul Kawa IPA), Pulu Islet IPA and Warraberalgal Porumalgal IPA.

The TSRA, including rangers from associated communities, continues to actively support the implementation of management plans for all IPAs in the region.

Following extensive consultation, a review of the IPA plan of management for Ugul Malu Kawal has been completed. A review of the Warraberalgal Porumalgal IPA plan of management is underway.

Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) project

The TEK project supports participating Torres Strait communities to utilise a TEK database for the collection, protection and controlled sharing of cultural and natural resource information while ensuring adherence to cultural protocols.

The project was expanded during 2017-2018, to include the communities of Saibai and Poruma, and now encompasses 11 Torres Strait communities.

A review of the TEK project was undertaken in early 2016 to explore how to increase the uptake of the TEK system, how to better incorporate TEK into land and sea management, and how to best utilise project resources. Of the 44 recommendations from the review, 87 per cent have been implemented or are underway.

Future funding and investment prospectus

The Land and Sea Management Strategy for Torres Strait 2016-2036 was launched in August 2016. The strategy is the guiding framework for environmental management in the region, through a collaborative approach with Traditional Owners, all levels of government and other partners.

An investment prospectus is under development to support the TSRA’s efforts to secure ongoing funding, and to guide and inform future management, monitoring and evaluation of the region’s key values.

Climate change adaptation and resilience

Implementation of the Torres Strait Regional Adaptation and Resilience Plan 2016-2021 continues across a range of focus areas, including fisheries, health, disaster risk reduction, coastal adaptation and marine and terrestrial environments.

The Torres Strait Regional Coordination Group was established to drive high-level regional coordination of critical adaptation and resilience actions across programmes and departments. The Masig Resilience Pilot has made good progress with the establishment of a local resilience committee.

Renewable energy

A solar array and energy-efficient pump have been installed at the Masig desalination plant to reduce the cost of water production. A 5-kilowatt solar array with battery back-up has been installed at the guesthouse on Mer. Three small-scale biogas digesters are being trialled to convert green waste to energy.

A draft proposal has been developed for a comprehensive integrated waste and energy solution for Horn Island and Thursday Island.

Additional Programme Specific Performance Indicators

Indicator | Flag | Status
Number of actions in the climate change strategy and associated action plans implemented | [picture] | 26 actions from the regional adaptation plan are now being progressed.
At least two new renewable energy initiatives commenced by 2018 | [picture] | Two renewable energy initiatives commenced in the reporting period.

Number of inhabited islands with active food producing community gardens in place

Across the region, three community gardens have been revitalised and are now recognised as celebration gardens. The Horn Island garden has been totally revitalised and expanded, the St Pauls community garden has received a new fence to protect it from horse damage, and the Warraber community garden has received assistance for a hydroponic vegetable-growing project. Discussions have started on revitalising the Hammond Island community garden.

Legend

Not yet started | Completed/ on schedule | Behind schedule less than three months | Behind schedule more than three months

Case Study:
Meeting the Challenge of Biosecurity – Weed Management on the Inner Islands of the Torres Strait

The TSRA currently works with communities on the 14 inhabited outer islands of the Torres Strait to carry out invasive plant mapping and weed control, which are core functions of the Indigenous rangers on each island. One of the main focus points and gaps in regional weed control and mapping relates to the resources and capacity to carry out those functions on the inner islands, where they are not a responsibility of the TSRA.

The TSRA and inner island stakeholders – the Torres Shire Council (TSC) and the Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) – are taking a collaborative approach to look at options to increase skills and knowledge and build the capacity of stakeholder employees to take on a more active role in the field of weed management.

TSC and TSIRC staff mapping leucaena

TSC and TSIRC staff removing juvenile weeds

Capacity building

This project will provide training for local employees, to give them capacity to conduct weed mapping, using new technology, and to apply effective control techniques for priority weed species. The training will be aligned with the soon to be released Torres Strait Regional Biosecurity Plan 2018-2023 and associated Torres Strait Regional Biosecurity Action Plans.

In May 2018, the TSRA facilitated a four-day workshop on Thursday Island with key field staff of the TSC and TSIRC. Training was conducted in weed baseline mapping using the Fulcrum App, and within 1.5 days staff had successfully mapped the extent of leucaena on Thursday Island. Staff also undertook training on control of leucaena using the cut stump and spray technique. Staff discussed safety-related issues and ran through safe work procedures for chainsaw use and chemical spraying.

TSRA Senior Natural Resource Management Officers will provide ongoing technical support for the staff who were involved in the training, and their managers.

WEED MANAGEMENT ON THE INNER ISLANDS IS VITAL, NOT ONLY FOR THOSE ISLANDS, BUT ALSO TO HELP TO MINIMISE THE RISK OF EXOTIC WEED SPECIES BEING TRANSLOCATED TO OTHER ISLANDS WHERE THEY CURRENTLY DO NOT EXIST.

Weed mapping

The weed baseline mapping software gave the TSC and TSIRC employees a better understanding of the leucaena infestations and generated baseline data on the weed situation as of May 2018. The baseline data can now be used to measure the progress of any future management of leucaena, and help to guide future management objectives and activities. A total of 277 separate leucaena infestations were recorded. The mapping software and visual display that the maps represent have given the employees an eagerness to continue using this software for other priority species.

There appears to be no evidence that significant baseline weed mapping has previously occurred on the inner islands of the Torres Strait. Certain isolated species of extreme priority may have been recorded and mapped by the Northern Australia Quarantine Strategy, but full-scale, island-wide weed mapping has yet to occur. The activities in this project were the first step to initiate a drive for inner island weed mapping and systematic weed management by local authorities.

Benefits for the region

The inner islands are a hub of activity and are frequently visited by vessels travelling to and from outer islands and the mainland. Weed management on the inner islands is vital, not only for those islands, but also to help to minimise the risk of exotic weed species being translocated to other islands where they currently do not exist.

Many important outcomes have resulted from this project and the collaborative approach has launched the process of developing skills and introducing new technology to the TSC and TSIRC to make weed management easier.

Governance and Leadership

Regional Goal

Effective and transparent self-government, with strong leadership.

Programme Outcomes

Implementation of the National Indigenous Reform Agreement service delivery principles.

Appropriate Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal participation in decision-making.

Improved communication, cultural competence and service delivery within a community development framework across governments.

Strong Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal organisational leadership and governance.

Projects and Initiatives

Governance capacity building.

Leadership capacity building.

Integrated Service Delivery coordination.

Community engagement.

Women’s leadership programme.

Youth leadership programme.

Tertiary education assistance.

Regional broadcasting support.

Programme Expenditure 2017-2018

TABLE 2-25

GOVERNANCE AND LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME EXPENDITURE, 2017-2018

Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
5,315 | 5,318 | –3

Programme Performance

Activity | Flag | Status
Community consultation and engagement | [picture] | During 2017-2018, community engagement was conducted in five Torres Strait communities by the Chairperson and the CEO. Further community visits are planned.
Integrated Service Delivery community booklets | [picture] | The community booklet for TRAWQ (the communities of Tamwoy, Rose Hill, Aplin, Waiben and Quarantine on Thursday Island) was workshopped and updated.
Media and communications support | [picture] | This is a contracted activity through Zakazukha Marketing Communications. In 2017-2018, 65 media releases were produced.
Internal and external audit support | [picture] | The external and internal audit programmes were completed. Audit recommendation tracking and status reports were provided at four Audit Committee meetings.
Assistance with Tertiary Education Scheme | [picture] | Sixteen tertiary scholarships were offered in 2017-2018.
Board and Chairperson support | [picture] | Four Executive Committee meetings, four Audit Committee meetings and four Board meetings were conducted in 2016-2017. Executive assistance was provided to the TSRA Chairperson.
Board Strategic Workshop | [picture] | All Board members attended the TSRA’s Board Strategic Training Workshop in March 2018. The focus of the workshop and training was to discuss the TSRA’s financial, strategic planning and risk framework.
Indigenous leadership | [picture] | During 2017-2018, one person was supported to undertake the Australian Rural Leadership Program and one person was supported to undertake the Training Rural Australians in Leadership programme.
Support to regional broadcasting | [picture] | The Torres Strait Islanders Media Association met its broadcasting hours and local content targets. A review was undertaken during 2017-2018.
Women’s and youth leadership | [picture] | Seven participants were supported in the Torres Strait Young Leaders Program and 10 women were supported to undertake the Torres Strait Women’s Leadership Program.

Additional Programme Specific Performance Indicators

Indicator | Flag | Status

Achieve a minimum of 20 per cent increase in access to services over the life of the Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018 measured from the 2012 baseline regional plan community booklets

The Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Plan 2009-2029 identified 1,608 service gaps.1

In 2012-2013, 372 (23 per cent) had been fully addressed. This increased to 773 (48 per cent) in 2013-2014 and 1,034 (64 per cent) in 2014-2015. In 2015-2016, new issues were identified from the refresh of 13 community booklets. The issues that have been fully addressed remain at 1,034 (64 per cent).

Increase in Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal women with the capacity to participate in leadership roles in the region measured from the 2012 baseline

The Torres Strait Women’s Leadership Program is delivered in partnership with the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation.

The 2012 baseline was six participants. Since then, the following participants have been supported:

2013-2014 – four women

2014-2015 – four women

2015-2016 – seven women

2016-2017 – 10 women

2017-2018 – 10 women.

Increase in Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal youth (18-25) with the capacity to participate in leadership development activities measured from the 2012 baseline

Training Rural Australians in Leadership and the Torres Strait Young Leaders Program are delivered in partnership with the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation.

The TSRA has supported the following Training Rural Australians in Leadership participants:

2013-2014 – two male and one female

2014-2015 – three male and four female

2015-2016 – one male

2016-2017 – two male and one female

2017-2018 – one male.

The TSRA has supported the following Torres Strait Young Leaders Program participants:

2013-2014 – one male and three female

2014-2015 – one male and three female

2015-2016 – two male and four female

2016-2017 – three male and three female

2017-2018 – two male and five female.

1. The service gaps were identified in 2009-2010 as part of the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Plan 2009-2029 development process. Community consultations conducted in 2014-2015 identified that some community booklets contained duplicate entries of gaps in services. Five duplications were removed, reducing the baseline from 1,613 to 1,608.

Legend

Not yet started | Completed/ on schedule | Behind schedule less than three months | Behind schedule more than three months

Case Study:
TSRA Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer Community Visit – Erub Community

The TSRA Chairperson, Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, the CEO, Mr Wayne See Kee, and administration staff were invited by the newly elected TSRA Member for Erub, Mr Jimmy Gela, to visit Erub for community consultations.

The visit took place on 6 April 2018, commencing with a meeting at the Erub Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) office between the TSRA, the TSIRC and the Erubam Le Traditional Land and Sea Owners (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation. The community meeting was held at Norah’s Ark and was well attended by various community elders and members and representatives of organisations based on the island.

This was an ideal opportunity for the community of Erub to meet face to face with TSRA representatives to directly voice any local issues that the community had. Community members were also provided with the opportunity to have individual deputations with the TSRA Chairperson and CEO.

THIS WAS AN IDEAL OPPORTUNITY FOR THE COMMUNITY OF ERUB TO MEET FACE TO FACE WITH TSRA REPRESENTATIVES TO DIRECTLY VOICE ANY LOCAL ISSUES THAT THE COMMUNITY HAD.

Representatives from the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) were also visiting the region, to undertake required audits of government organisations within the Torres Strait region. The ANAO staff members accompanied the TSRA group on the Erub community visit, which enabled them to conduct auditing components that were related to the TSRA.

Following the community consultations, the TSRA Chairperson and CEO were able to visit development sites and organisations where the TSRA is a stakeholder:

the Erub Erwer Meta Torres Strait Islander Corporation Art Centre

the Remote Indigenous Broadcasting Service

the new site for a multipurpose facility

the newly installed 4G telecommunications tower

the Erub Freezers.

The TSRA undertakes community visits and engagement meetings to meet with community members and key stakeholders from various Torres Strait communities throughout the year.

TSRA Chairperson Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM (seated) and CEO Mr Wayne See Kee (standing) taking questions from members of the Erub community

Healthy Communities

Regional Goal

To enhance both healthy communities and our living environment and achieve the provision of adequate, appropriate and affordable housing.

Programme Outcomes

Secure whole-of-government investment for infrastructure to support healthy homes and healthy living environments.

Policies support community managed delivery of primary and public health care services and are based on regional needs and priorities.

Improved access to affordable fresh and healthy foods.

More active and healthy communities.

Affordable home ownership available across the region.

Projects and Initiatives

Support community market garden and horticulture initiatives (in conjunction with the Environmental Management Programme).

Engage with food suppliers and retailers to increase supply and variety of healthy food options.

Support health education initiatives, including physical education, nutrition, obesity, diabetes, motivation and substance abuse programmes.

Fund sport and recreation activities and minor infrastructure.

Contribute funding and provide policy advice for the delivery of essential services and infrastructure to support healthy living environments.

Programme Expenditure 2017-2018

TABLE 2-26

HEALTHY COMMUNITIES PROGRAMME EXPENDITURE, 2017-2018

Budget $’000 | Actual $’000 | Variance $’000
3,330 | 3,332 | –2

Programme Performance

Activity | Flag | Status

Seawalls

The joint Australian Government and Queensland Government initiative to increase coastal protection in low-lying Torres Strait communities continued throughout the financial year.

Seawall construction works on Saibai reached practical completion on 30 November 2017. The TSRA funded additional emergency works on Poruma.

The TSRA completed a Seawalls Evaluation Report on the project that included all major lessons learned and will help to inform and optimise future investment in the region.

Major infrastructure projects

The TSRA continued to roll out MIP 6, a $30 million jointly funded Australian Government and Queensland Government project. Work scope and design reports have been finalised for most MIP 6 projects that focus on water and sustainability needs. Tendering is complete or nearing completion and the staged construction programme has commenced.

The TSRA continued to work with the TSC on the $6 million Prince of Wales Safe Landing Facility project funded by the Australian Government. This project will provide safe access for the community and is at the development approval stage.

Regional water operations and support | [picture] | The TSRA continued to support water and wastewater management with the TSIRC through the provision of funding to complete the Sustainable Water and Wastewater Management Project. The project is due to be completed in 2018-2019.

Major Infrastructure Programme trust and other infrastructure projects

The TSRA continues to work with the TSIRC to identify infrastructure and non-infrastructure solutions to allow for all-tide safe access to Ugar community. The TSRA supported Ugar safe access by providing funding for an infrastructure environmental assessment, including geotechnical assessment; a flight subsidy; and fuel bowser and helicopter pad upgrades.

The TSRA continues to fund a range of minor infrastructure projects. To date, the three regional councils (TSC, TSIRC and NPARC) have been allocated funding for over 20 projects, including stormwater and drainage upgrades, public toilets and a waste landfill site.

Healthy fresh food and horticulture

The Healthy Communities Programme continued to provide grant funding to community organisations to support market garden activities.

The Environmental Management Programme’s Mekem Garden Sustainable Horticulture Project delivered food garden initiatives and workshops. Eight communities have been involved in the development of community and backyard garden projects which promote the growing of fresh foods in the Torres Strait communities.

The Healthy Communities Programme has complemented these activities with visits to run grant information sessions for the community.

Sport and recreation activities (grant funding)

The Torres Strait Youth and Recreational Sporting Association continued to administer sports subsidy funding on behalf of the TSRA throughout the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area region.

The association provided 60 sport and recreation grants to encourage participation in a range of sporting and recreational activities, including sporting events at state and national levels, as well funding for five major local sporting carnival events.

Of a total of 3,147 participants in sport and recreation during the period:

356 were in the 0-12 age group

1,089 were in the 13-25 age group

1,529 were in the 26-54 age group

173 were 55 years old or older.

The TSRA also provided support for the association’s organisational capacity to improve service delivery, including a grant for an additional vehicle.

Waste and landfill projects

The Healthy Communities Programme continues to work with key stakeholders in local and state government and Australian Government agencies to find solutions to address waste management issues in the region.

The TSC received funding from the TSRA’s Community Minor Infrastructure Fund to fund a refuse landfill site in 2018-2019.

Horn Island affordable housing project | [picture] | Construction of subdivision works is planned for 2019. The resolution of land tenure matters has been finalised. The layout and designs of the lots are being completed. This project will provide additional options for affordable home ownership in the region.

Health promotion and community education projects

The TSRA provides operational funding to the Torres Strait Youth and Recreation Sporting Association. The association provided support to sporting events in the region and worked closely with event organisers and stakeholders, such as Queensland Health, to deliver health and nutrition education initiatives.

The TSRA also influences policy for health programmes across all tiers of government, through participation in the:

Torres Strait Cross Border Health Issues Committee

Department of Health: Implementation Plan Advisory Group

Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children Steering Committee

James Cook University Torres Strait Island Health Sciences Consultative Committee

National Health and Medical Research Council consultations

Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Partnership meetings.

Additional Programme Specific Performance Indicators

Indicator | Flag | Status

Increased access to fresh and affordable foods in Torres Strait communities

The Environmental Management Programme’s Mekem Garden Sustainable Horticulture Project delivers food garden initiatives and workshops to increase knowledge and practice of traditional gardening activities and promote the growing of fresh foods in Torres Strait communities.

The Healthy Communities Programme complements the project by providing grant education sessions in conjunction with the Mekem Garden workshops conducted by the Regional Landcare Facilitator, to encourage communities to access TSRA grant funding opportunities for gardening and horticulture activities.

Increase in participation in structured sport, recreation and healthy lifestyle activities | [picture] | Five major local sporting events were supported and 60 grants for sporting and recreational activities were approved. A total of 3,147 participants were supported in 2017-2018.

Increase in serviced land and infrastructure to support housing for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people

The TSRA continues to support the TSC to deliver a subdivision on Horn Island. The TSRA has contributed funding to establish the subdivision. Issues with Native Title previously delayed this project; however, the TSC has now secured the land. The TSC and TSRA are updating the funding deed for the TSC to commence work on the subdivision.

Legend

Not yet started | Completed/ on schedule | Behind schedule less than three months | Behind schedule more than three months

Case Study:
Community Minor Infrastructure Fund

In 2015, the TSRA Board endorsed a new model for minor infrastructure funding to local government councils, the Community Minor Infrastructure Fund (CMIF). The aim of the investment is to support councils in the development of minor infrastructure that improves community amenities and safety.

Each year, councils are invited to submit minor infrastructure proposals to be considered for funding. Through the three CMIF rounds that have occurred to date, the TSRA has provided over $2.5 million in funding for over 20 projects.

PROJECTS UNDER THE CMIF HAVE RESULTED IN IMPROVEMENTS IN PUBLIC SAFETY, WATER QUALITY AND SECURITY, AND LOCAL AMENITIES.

Horn Island playground cover

Minor infrastructure projects are delivered by the three councils – Torres Shire Council, Torres Strait Island Regional Council, and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council – ensuring that the TSRA is supporting local Indigenous employment. Projects under the CMIF have resulted in improvements in public safety, water quality and security, and local amenities.

By making this funding more accessible to the three councils of the Torres Strait, the TSRA CMIF has been able to support the planning, construction and upgrading of infrastructure as shown in Table 2-27.

Thursday Island pool cover

Table 2-27

Infrastructure Improvements under the Community Minor Infrastructure Fund

Year commenced | Torres Strait Island Regional Council | Torres Shire Council | Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council

Round 1
2016-2017

Darnley Lagoon fence repair

St Pauls water shed repair

Kuban water shed repair

Saibai Lagoon pumps switchboard

Saibai Lagoon water reservoir tank replacement

Mer water filtration

Douglas Street toilet block

Planning scheme and infrastructure plan

Thursday Island Waste Transfer Station Recycling Facility cover

Victoria Parade stormwater drainage upgrade

Thursday Island swimming pool shade cover

Thursday Island and Horn Island playground shade covers

–

Round 2
2017-2018

Saibai Council Administration Building re-roof

Badu Airport Terminal re-roof

Horn Island public toilet

Water main upgrade

Solar lighting

Dog pound upgrade

Northern Peninsula Area public facility rehabilitation

Bamaga Heritage Centre toilets

Round 3 2018-2019 | – | Horn Island landfill site | Sewer upgrade Seisia Transfer Station Street light upgrades

Safe Communities

Regional Goal

Safe, healthy, respectful and progressive communities, based on Ailan Kastom and Aboriginal traditions, and strong families and safe and healthy communities that are guided by cultural and traditional lore.

Programme Outcomes

Effective community and social service support.

Families and individuals are safe in home and community.

Public areas are safe and accessible for community members.

Communities have access to appropriate transport infrastructure.

Projects and Initiatives

Support Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal women, men and children through social development and support programmes; and child and family safety programmes.

Support safe and accessible community infrastructure; land and sea communication systems; and community capacity building.

Participate in interagency and Integrated Service Delivery meetings and forums to discuss issues of community and domestic safety and to contribute to shaping planning and service delivery in the region.

Programme Expenditure 2017-2018

TABLE 2-28

SAFE COMMUNITIES PROGRAMME EXPENDITURE, 2017-2018

Budget $000 | Actual $000 | Variance $000
2,660 | 2,661 | –1

Programme Performance

Activity | Flag | Status

School attendance and learning initiatives (grants)

The TSRA provides funding support for projects that improve the delivery of social services in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.

In 2017-2018, a TSRA-funded initiative, the Ensuring a Strait Start project, continued to be delivered by the Torres Strait Islanders Regional Education Council to improve access to early education support services in the Torres Strait communities. This project has been delivered in partnership with Yumi Education Inc and the Montessori Australia Foundation.

Community safety partnerships | [picture] | The TSRA has a range of key partnerships related to community safety, with relevant local, state and Australian Government agencies. The TSRA is a member of the Torres Strait Child and Family Committee, the Local Level Alliance and the Torres Strait Maritime Safety Programme.
Community safety projects (grants) | [picture] | The TSRA provided two community safety grants through its common funding rounds in 2017-2018. Funding supported Boat Safety and Pool Lifeguard and Water Safety training courses.

Law enforcement partnerships

The TSRA provided funding support for the delivery of legal services for residents in the region through a partnership with the Australian Government Attorney-General’s Department in 2017-2018. The service is provided by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service (Qld) Ltd.

In 2017-2018, 1,685 cases relating to duty lawyer, criminal, family and civil casework were supported, and 2,075 cases were supported for advice and minor assistance. The Community Legal Education Officer role continues to assist clients to understand the legal process.

Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme | [picture] | The TSRA continued to work with the DTMR through an MOU to deliver the TIDS. In 2017-2018, through the TIDS, the TSRA contributed funding to the TSIRC for works associated with the Hammond Island wharf upgrade.

Social services delivered by non-government organisations (NGOs) – Port Kennedy Association and Mura Kosker Sorority

Core operational and service support funding was provided to the Mura Kosker Sorority and the Port Kennedy Association to continue to deliver important community social support services.

With this support, the organisations deliver programmes such as child and family support services, after-school and holiday care programmes, and domestic and family violence counselling. Both organisations act as auspicing bodies for individuals and unincorporated bodies that apply for community grants.

The Port Kennedy Association currently employs 26 Indigenous staff and the Mura Kosker Sorority currently employs 11 Indigenous staff, in roles including administrators, counsellors, outreach workers and programme coordinators and managers.

Coordination of infrastructure planning

The TSRA works in partnership with key Commonwealth and state government agencies to secure and maintain funding relationships that contribute to key regional infrastructure projects for the region.

In 2017-2018, the TSRA continued to support the Community Minor Infrastructure Fund. The third round of funding provided joint funding for four projects that improved community safety.

The TSRA continues to work closely with the three local government councils and the Queensland Department of Local Government, Racing and Multicultural Affairs to coordinate and deliver jointly funded projects in the region.

The TSRA is also a member of two local council technical working groups which facilitate information sharing on regional infrastructure planning and coordination.

Community capacity building (grants) | [picture] | Four grants were provided to community organisations and a men’s group to encourage capacity building and to improve the wellbeing of communities.
Social and economic engagement partnerships | [picture] | In 2017-2018, the TSRA worked with key partners to improve social and economic community engagement. The Safe Communities Programme contributed to Integrated Service Delivery forums as well as interagency social service forums.

Social services delivered by NGOs (grants)

The capacity-building implementation project undertaken by the Mura Kosker Sorority and the Port Kennedy Association has been completed. This project built governance and administrative capacity in the two organisations and improved the delivery of social support services in the Torres Strait region.

The Port Kennedy Association received funding to continue its community after-school care programme in 2017-2018.

Additional Programme Specific Performance Indicators

Indicator | Flag | Status

All Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people employed in the TSRA-supported social services sector in the region have appropriate accreditation

The TSRA provides the Mura Kosker Sorority and the Port Kennedy Association with an annual operational budget that includes appropriations for training and accreditation.

The organisations have appropriate accreditation to effectively perform their duties within the social services sector. These include certificates in Aged Care and Disability Services, Children’s Services, Community Services, and Business Administration; the Associate Degree in Indigenous Community Management and Development; and the Diploma in Financial Counselling.

AII TSRA-funded service delivery organisations in the region provide quality services and operate in accordance with relevant standards

Social support services are effectively delivered in the region by the Mura Kosker Sorority and the Port Kennedy Association and are operated in accordance with relevant standards under the Associations Incorporation Act 1981 (Qld), and within the TSRA funding guidelines.

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service (Qld) Ltd delivers legal services in the region in accordance with relevant standards and guidelines under the Indigenous Legal Assistance Programme of the Australian Government Attorney-General’s Department.

Reduction in service referrals, response timeframes and waiting lists for social service providers

The amount of service referrals varies depending on clients’ individual circumstances. The programmes delivered by the Mura Kosker Sorority and the Port Kennedy Association include child safety services, child and family services, the Disability/Flexi-Respite Programme and the Old People’s Action Programme.

All responses to clients and waiting lists are managed in line with the service provisions of those organisations.

Increased participation in TSRA-supported community events by residents and TSRA-funded service organisations

The number of residents and TSRA-funded organisations participating in various community events has increased to 450 participants, compared to an average of 300 participants in previous years.

Community events coordinated by the Mura Kosker Sorority and the Port Kennedy Association include events related to International Women’s Day, Domestic Violence Prevention Month, White Ribbon Awareness Day, Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, National Aboriginal and Islander Children’s Day, and Child Protection Week.

Legend

Not yet started | Completed/ on schedule | Behind schedule less than three months | Behind schedule more than three months

Case Study:
TSRA Legal Services Support for the Torres Strait

The TSRA’s Safe Communities Programme contributes significant funding support for legal services in the Torres Strait, providing more than $1 million each year to ensure access to legal aid and support services.

Since 2011, the TSRA has invested more than $7.5 million in core operational funding to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service (Qld) Ltd (ATSILS). ATSILS is a community-based organisation established to provide professional and culturally proficient legal services. Its role is to ensure that clients and their families receive high-quality legal assistance, advice and representation if they come into contact with the justice system, and to influence positive change within the justice system that appreciates the culturally specific, diverse challenges and circumstances that impact on communities in the region.

In 2017-2018, the TSRA increased its annual appropriation to ATSILS for the position of a Community Legal Education Officer. This position is dedicated to enhancing community understanding of the justice system through community legal education and awareness programmes.

Historically, the TSRA has funded a range of social service grants – via its bi-annual Common Funding Round – to support legal services, including offender support and prevention programmes. In 2017-2018, the Safe Communities Programme funded the Thursday Island Justice Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Corporation, which provides vital community support to the regional court circuits.

THE TSRA’S SAFE COMMUNITIES PROGRAMME PROVIDES MORE THAN $1 MILLION EACH YEAR TO ENSURE ACCESS TO LEGAL AID AND SUPPORT SERVICES.

Court circuit personnel visiting Saibai Community in August 2018

Where We Operate

Geography and Logistics

The Torres Strait is located in Australia and is part of the north-eastern state, Queensland. The area is approximately 150 kilometres wide at its narrowest point and is situated between the tip of Queensland’s Cape York Peninsula and Papua New Guinea. The region consists of over 270 islands and reefs.

The Torres Strait links the Coral Sea in the east to the Arafura Sea in the west; the two main navigation passages are the Prince of Wales Channel, north of Hammond Island, and the Endeavour Strait, between Cape York and Prince of Wales Island.

The Torres Strait islands have a variety of topographies, ecosystems and formations. Several islands, closest to the Papua New Guinea coastline, are low lying and are regularly inundated by sea water. Many of the western islands are hilly and steep. The central islands are predominantly coral cays and the islands in the east are volcanic.

The TSRA delivers services across the entire Torres Strait region, including 17 inhabited islands and the communities of Bamaga and Seisia in the Northern Peninsula Area of mainland Australia. Due to the area’s remote location, the TSRA relies on air and sea links and limited phone, facsimile and internet communications between communities for the delivery of its services. Most travel within the region is restricted to small watercraft, helicopters and light aircraft. The main gateway to the Torres Strait is Ngarupai Airport located on Horn Island, a 20-minute ferry ride from the Australian Government, Queensland Government and two local government administration hubs located on Thursday Island.

FIGURE 3-1
THE TORRES STRAIT

The bulk of goods and materials required by the region are shipped by container vessel from Cairns and redistributed by barge from transhipment points on Thursday Island and Horn Island.

Culture

The picturesque Torres Strait region is predominantly inhabited by Torres Strait Islanders and Kaurareg Aboriginal people. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that as of 30 June 2016 the total population of the region was 9,519, of whom 7,437 (78.13 per cent) were Torres Strait Islander or Aboriginal people.

The Torres Strait’s unique Ailan Kastom (island custom) is a central part of life in the region. Ailan Kastom is kept alive through the arts, rituals and performances, and the preservation of languages and traditional knowledge, which are passed from one generation to the next. Cultural values are strongly intertwined with traditional ancestral ties and respect for the waterways, land and sea and the resources they provide.

History

The Torres Strait is named after Spanish explorer Luis Vaez de Torres, who sailed through the area in 1606. Queensland Government administration of the Torres Strait was established on Thursday Island in 1877, following the arrival of missionaries on Cape York Peninsula. Early settlers were involved in pearling, bêche-de-mer collection, and mining.

Native Title

Torres Strait Islander people first achieved recognition of their land rights in 1992 following the High Court’s landmark Mabo decision which granted the Meriam people Native Title rights over Mer (Murray Island). This was the first time Native Title was recognised under the common law of Australia. It set a precedent for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people throughout Australia to assert their Native Title rights through the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth).

Native Title has been granted for 13 inhabited islands in the Torres Strait region and most of the uninhabited islands. In addition, the Kaurareg Aboriginal people have achieved recognition of their Native Title rights over seven inner islands: Ngarupai (Horn Island), Muralag (Prince of Wales Island), Zuna (Entrance Island), Yeta (Port Lihou Island), Mipa (Turtle Island), Tarilag (Packe Island) and Damaralag. In total, 22 Native Title determinations have been made in the Torres Strait. No new determinations were made in 2017-2018.

Native Title claims are being pursued over three land claims and two sea claims. In 2018, the Native Title Office commissioned research into the remaining unclaimed islands and seas. It is proposed that the remaining claims will be completed in the near future.

Progress Towards Closing the Gap

Closing the Gap is a commitment by the Australian Government and state and territory governments to improve the lives of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Australians and, in particular, to provide a better future for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal children.

A national integrated Closing the Gap strategy has been agreed by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG), the peak intergovernmental forum in Australia. COAG brings together the Prime Minister, state premiers, territory chief ministers and the President of the Australian Local Government Association.

Closing the Gap is linked to a wider reform of Commonwealth–state financial relations. COAG’s national agreements and partnerships, in areas such as education, housing and health, are focused on overcoming Indigenous disadvantage.

In 2014-2015, the Australian Government introduced the Indigenous Advancement Strategy, which grouped over 150 Indigenous programmes into five programme streams. These are:

Jobs, Land and Economy

Children and Schooling

Safety and Wellbeing

Culture and Capability

Remote Australia Strategies.

CLOSING THE GAP IS A COMMITMENT BY THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT AND STATE AND TERRITORY GOVERNMENTS TO IMPROVE THE LIVES OF TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER AND ABORIGINAL AUSTRALIANS AND, IN PARTICULAR, TO PROVIDE A BETTER FUTURE FOR TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER AND ABORIGINAL CHILDREN.

The TSRA has aligned its programme outcomes to these streams while continuing to deliver against the COAG targets:

to close the life expectancy gap within a generation

to halve the gap in mortality rates for Indigenous children under five within a decade

to ensure access to early childhood education for all Indigenous four-year-olds in remote communities within five years

to halve the gap in reading, writing and numeracy achievements for children within a decade

to halve the gap for Indigenous students in Year 12 (or equivalent) attainment rates by 2020

to halve the gap in employment outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians within a decade.

COAG Building Blocks

The TSRA’s programme structure is based on the six COAG Building Blocks for closing the gap in disadvantage between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. The building blocks are also used as the framework for the TSRA’s Integrated Service Delivery (ISD) project.

In 2008-2009, the TSRA completed community consultations as part of the development of the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Plan 2009-2029. The TSRA’s contribution towards the targeted outcomes of the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Plan 2009-2029 are noted in the Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018, which details the TSRA’s programmes and how they contribute to regional outcomes, the Australian Government’s Indigenous Advancement Strategy and the United Nations Articles on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

In 2009-2010, the ISD project identified 1,613 gaps in service delivery across 20 communities. Detail of the service gaps is contained in the Torres Strait Regional Plan ISD Community Booklets. A booklet for each community can be accessed via the TSRA website (www.tsra.gov.au).

In 2017-2018, the ISD initiative was limited to operational activities and re-establishing the ISD governance framework. Since the local government, TSRA, Queensland Government and Australian Government elections were held in 2016, there have been changes of personnel in the governance framework that have had an effect on the progress of ISD in the region.

The TSRA will conduct a review of the ISD project in 2018-2019, with a focus on re-establishing the governance framework and strengthening the project at the operational level. The TSRA will also continue to lobby relevant Queensland Government and Australian Government ministers to secure commitment for the ISD project.

Regional Statistics

The latest data available at the time of writing this report was from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). The TSRA has used this data to benchmark the progress of the TSRA’s programmes against Closing the Gap targets. The data used throughout this section was taken from the ABS QuickStats website and was current at 30 June 2018.

The figures are for the Torres Strait and the two communities in the Northern Peninsula Area (Bamaga and Seisia) which are included in the TSRA’s area of responsibility.

Population

The comparison of population changes across the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area (Bamaga and Seisia) is shown in tables 3-1 to 3-4.

Table 3-1

Total Population of the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia

Torres Shire Local Government Area | Torres Strait Island Regional Council Local Government Area | Bamaga | Seisia | Region (Total)
2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016
3,256 | 3,610 | 4,248 | 4,514 | 1,046 | 1,164 | 203 | 260 | 8,753 | 9,548

Table 3-2

Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Population of the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia

Torres Shire Local Government Area | Torres Strait Island Regional Council Local Government Area | Bamaga | Seisia | Region (Total)
2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016
2,063 | 2,482 | 3,856 | 4,144 | 845 | 957 | 135 | 201 | 6,899 | 7,784

In 2016, the Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal population of the Torres Shire Local Government Area represented 68.6 per cent of the total population. For the Torres Strait Island Regional Council Local Government Area, the Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal population represented 91.8 per cent of the total population. This shows a slight increase in the proportion of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in those two areas compared to 2011. The Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal population represented 74.4 per cent of the total population in Seisia and 82.4 per cent in Bamaga.

Table 3-3

Gender Balance of the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia

| Torres Shire Local Government Area | Torres Strait Island Regional Council Local Government Area | Bamaga | Seisia | Region (Average)
| 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016
Male | 49.8% | 49.5% | 51.3% | 50.8% | 49.4% | 47.9% | 49.1% | 51.1% | 49.5% | 50.1%
Female | 50.2% | 50.5% | 48.7% | 49.2% | 50.6% | 52.1% | 50.9% | 48.9% | 50.5% | 49.9%

The gender balance average compared to 2011 shows an increase of males by 1.2 per cent.

Table 3-4

Average Age of Population of the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia

Torres Shire Local Government Area | Torres Strait Island Regional Council Local Government Area | Bamaga | Seisia | Region (Average)
2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016
28 | 28 | 23 | 24 | 23 | 24 | 31 | 25 | 23 | 25

Apart from Seisia, where there has been a decrease in the average age of the population, the population age across the region remained more or less consistent between 2011 and 2016. The age profile in Seisia is believed to be skewed by the number of non-resident visitors in the community at the time of the 2011 Census.

Employment

In Table 3-5, the employment data for the Torres Strait relates only to Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people, while the figures for Bamaga and Seisia include Indigenous and non-Indigenous employees.

Table 3-5

Employment in the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia

| Torres Strait | Bamaga | Seisia | Region (Total)
Employment type | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016
Full time | 1,039 | 915 | 277 | 311 | 76 | 65 | 1,392 | 1,291
Part time | 837 | 547 | 84 | 93 | 17 | 12 | 938 | 652
Away from work | 226 | 159 | 14 | 20 | 6 | 3 | 246 | 182
Unemployed | 173 | 287 | 29 | 42 | 0 | 15 | 202 | 344
Total labour | 2,275 | 1,908 | 404 | 466 | 99 | 95 | 2,778 | 2,469

Education

The number of people undertaking some form of education in 2016-2017 was 3,641. The education categories are shown in Table 3-6.

Table 3-6

Education in the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia

| Torres Shire Local Government Area | Torres Strait Island Regional Council Local Government Area | Bamaga | Seisia | Region (Total)
Education level | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016
Pre-school | 68 | 85 | 91 | 89 | 14 | 25 | 0 | 3 | 173 | 202
Primary | 333 | 378 | 780 | 783 | 175 | 198 | 22 | 29 | 1,310 | 1,388
Secondary | 253 | 318 | 176 | 221 | 89 | 92 | 8 | 20 | 526 | 651
Technical or further | 43 | 59 | 97 | 72 | 24 | 19 | 3 | 5 | 167 | 155
University | 71 | 74 | 25 | 20 | 10 | 11 | 3 | 4 | 109 | 109
Other | 11 | 8 | 47 | 17 | 7 | 11 | 0 | 6 | 65 | 42
Not stated | 504 | 594 | 247 | 412 | 54 | 60 | 17 | 28 | 822 | 1,094
Total | 1,283 | 1,516 | 1,463 | 1,614 | 373 | 416 | 53 | 95 | 3,172 | 3,641

The Tagai State College average school attendance in 2016, across years 1 to 12, was 89 per cent. This figure is slightly below the whole-of-Queensland attendance rate average of 90 per cent.

Income

The 2016 Census data indicates an improvement in the average household incomes of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people. This is reflected in Table 3-7.

Table 3-7

Median Wealth in the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia ($/week)

| Torres Shire Local Government Area | Torres Strait Island Regional Council Local Government Area | Bamaga | Seisia | Region (Average)
Income type | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016
Personal | 682 | 740 | 314 | 373 | 577 | 568 | 506 | 592 | 411 | 484
Household | 1,579 | 1,837 | 849 | 929 | 1,117 | 1,402 | 785 | 1,261 | 971 | 1,357

The Queensland averages for personal and household income were $660 and $1,402 per week. The Australian averages were $662 and $1,438.

Housing Tenure

The 2016 Census reported that there were 2,267 dwellings; the tenure arrangements are shown in Table 3-8.

Table 3-8

Tenure of Private Dwellings in the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia

| Torres Shire Local Government Area | Torres Strait Island Regional Council Local Government Area | Bamaga | Seisia | Region (Total)
Tenure type | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016 | 2011 | 2016
Owned | 65 | 76 | 49 | 31 | 0 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 119 | 115
Mortgaged | 48 | 35 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 52 | 35
Rented | 632 | 646 | 856 | 907 | 245 | 273 | 53 | 59 | 1,786 | 1,885
Other | 17 | 6 | 9 | 18 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 29 | 24
Not stated | 53 | 147 | 28 | 33 | 8 | 18 | 0 | 10 | 89 | 208
Total | 815 | 910 | 942 | 989 | 256 | 294 | 62 | 74 | 2,075 | 2,267

The figures in Table 3-8 indicate a decrease in the number of houses owned in the region between 2011 and 2016. There was a significant increase in the number of properties being rented. Complex land tenure arrangements in the region and a lack of freehold land and long-tenure leasehold land remain challenges to increasing home ownership.

Health

A synthesis of data obtained at 30 June 2018 from the ABS Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Survey 2012-2013 (updated) shows:

Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people were more than three times as likely as non-Indigenous people to have diabetes.

Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people were twice as likely as non-Indigenous people to have signs of chronic kidney disease.

Obesity rates for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal females and males were higher than the comparable rates for non-Indigenous people in every age group.

Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people’s rates of heart disease were significantly higher than the comparable rates for non-Indigenous people in all age groups from 15 to 54 years.

The mortality rates for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal males in the 35-44 age group were over four times higher than rates for non-Indigenous males. The mortality rates for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal females in the 25-29 age group and the 35-39 age group were five times higher than rates for non-Indigenous females.

How We Operate

Formation

The TSRA was established on 1 July 1994 under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission Act 1989 (Cth), and is currently enabled by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth).

The TSRA is a corporate Commonwealth entity under the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (Cth), and falls under the legislative requirements of that Act in its use and management of public resources. The Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (Cth) requires the TSRA to develop a corporate plan each year, outlining its operations. A copy of the current TSRA corporate plan can be accessed on the TSRA website (www.tsra.gov.au/the-tsra/corporate-information).

THE ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES ARE TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER AND ABORIGINAL PEOPLE WHO LIVE AND WORK IN THE REGION.

The TSRA is the leading Commonwealth representative body for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living in the Torres Strait, including two communities (Bamaga and Seisia) in the Northern Peninsula Area. The TSRA comprises 20 elected representatives (the Board) and Australian Public Service administrative staff. The elected representatives are Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people who live and work in the region. The TSRA Board elects a Chairperson, a Deputy Chairperson and an Alternate Deputy Chairperson. A Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the TSRA’s administration and staffing.

The TSRA performs separate functions under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) as the Native Title Representative Body (NTRB) for the Torres Strait region. In 2018, the Minister for Indigenous Affairs renewed the TSRA’s NTRB status until 30 June 2019.

Under section 142D of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth) the TSRA is required to formulate and implement a plan to guide the progress of the Torres Strait region. This document, known as the Torres Strait Development Plan, is updated every four years, a period consistent with the term of the TSRA Board.

The Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018 is the fifth development plan since the establishment of the TSRA. The plan outlines eight TSRA programme components: Economic Development; Fisheries; Culture, Art and Heritage; Native Title; Environmental Management; Governance and Leadership; Healthy Communities; and Safe Communities.

Enabling Legislation

The TSRA’s enabling legislation is the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth). Part 3A, Division 1, section 142 of the Act states:

(1) A Torres Strait Regional Authority is established.

(2) The TSRA:

(a) is a body corporate, with perpetual succession; and

(b) is to have a common seal; and

(c) may acquire, hold and dispose of real and personal property; and

(d) may sue and be sued in its corporate name.

Functions

The functions of the TSRA, as outlined in Section 142A of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth), are:

(a) to recognise and maintain the special and unique Ailan Kastom of Torres Strait Islanders living in the Torres Strait area;

(b) to formulate and implement programmes for Torres Strait Islanders, and Aboriginal persons, living in the Torres Strait area;

(c) to monitor the effectiveness of programmes for Torres Strait Islanders, and Aboriginal persons, living in the Torres Strait area, including programmes conducted by other bodies;

(d) to develop policy proposals to meet national, State and regional needs and priorities of Torres Strait Islanders, and Aboriginal persons, living in the Torres Strait area;

(e) to assist, advise and co-operate with Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal communities, organisations and individuals at national, State, Territory and regional levels;

(f) to advise the Minister on:

(i) matters relating to Torres Strait Islander affairs, and Aboriginal affairs, in the Torres Strait area, including the administration of legislation;

(ii) the co-ordination of the activities of other Commonwealth bodies that affect Torres Strait Islanders, or Aboriginal persons, living in the Torres Strait area;

(g) when requested by the Minister, to provide information or advice to the Minister on any matter specified by the Minister;

(h) to take such reasonable action as it considers necessary to protect Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal cultural material and information relating to the Torres Strait area if the material or information is considered sacred or otherwise significant by Torres Strait Islanders or Aboriginal persons;

(i) at the request of, or with the agreement of, the Australian Bureau of Statistics but not otherwise, to collect and publish statistical information relating to Torres Strait Islanders, and Aboriginal persons, living in the Torres Strait area;

(j) such other functions as are conferred on the TSRA by this Act or any other Act;

(k) such other functions as are expressly conferred on the TSRA by a law of a State or of an internal Territory and in respect of which there is in force written approval by the Minister under Section 142B;

(l) to undertake such research as is necessary to enable the TSRA to perform any of its other functions; and

(m) to do anything else that is incidental or conducive to the performance of any of the preceding functions.

Powers

The powers of the TSRA are outlined in section 142C of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth), which states:

(1) The TSRA has power to do all things that are necessary or convenient to be done for or in connection with the performance of its functions.

(2) The powers of the TSRA include, but are not limited to, the following powers:

(a) to accept gifts, grants, bequests and devises made to it;

(b) to act as trustee of money and other property vested in it on trust;

(c) to negotiate and co-operate with other Commonwealth bodies and with State, Territory and local government bodies;

(d) to enter into an agreement for making a grant or loan under section 142GA to the State of Queensland or an authority of that State (including a local government body);

(e) to enter into an agreement (other than an agreement referred to in paragraph (d)) with a State or a Territory.

(3) Despite anything in this Act, any money or other property held by the TSRA on trust must be dealt with in accordance with the powers and duties of the TSRA as trustee.

(4) The powers of the TSRA may be exercised in or out of Australia.

Responsible Minister

During 2017-2018 the TSRA was a corporate Commonwealth entity within the Prime Minister and Cabinet portfolio. The responsible Minister for the TSRA was the Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Senator the Hon. Nigel Scullion.

Ministerial Directions

Under section 142E of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth), the Minister has powers of direction in relation to the TSRA. Section 142E of the Act states:

(1) The TSRA must perform its functions and exercise its powers in accordance with any general written directions given to it by the Minister.

(2) The Minister must not give directions about the content of any advice, information or recommendation that may be given by the TSRA to a Minister, Department of State or authority of the Commonwealth.

(3) The Minister must not give directions about the content of any advice, information or recommendation that may be given by the TSRA to:

(a) a Minister of a State or Territory; or

(b) a Department of a State or Territory; or

(c) an authority of a State or Territory;

except for the purpose of protecting the confidentiality of information given to the TSRA by the Commonwealth or an authority of the Commonwealth.

(4) Subject to subsection (5), the Minister must cause a copy of a direction to be laid before each House of the Parliament within 15 sitting days of that House after that direction was given.

(5) The rule in subsection (4) does not apply if the laying of a copy of a direction before each House of the Parliament would result in the disclosure of a matter in a manner that would be inconsistent with the views or sensitivities of Torres Strait Islanders or Aboriginal persons.

The TSRA did not receive any formal directions from the Minister during the reporting period.

Statement of Expectations and Statement of Intent

In 2016, the Minister for Indigenous Affairs provided a Statement of Expectations to the TSRA concerning the operation and performance of the TSRA. In response, the TSRA provided a Statement of Intent to the Minister.

Ministerial Appointments

The Minister for Indigenous Affairs made three Acting Chief Executive Officer appointments under Section 144L(a) of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth) between 1 July 2017 and 30 June 2018.

Mr Charlie Kaddy and Mr John Ramsay were appointed as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the TSRA for the periods outlined below. Mr Ramsay was appointed concurrently with Mr Kaddy while Mr Kaddy was attending a meeting for the TSRA in Papua New Guinea.

Appointed: Mr Charlie Kaddy
Duration: 15 January to 9 February 2018

Appointed: Mr John Ramsay
Duration: 4 February to 8 February 2018

Appointed: Mr Charlie Kaddy
Duration: 18 June to 6 July 2018

Briefings and Information

Throughout the reporting period the TSRA provided ministerial minutes and briefings to the Minister for Indigenous Affairs, including quarterly reports detailing the TSRA’s operations and service delivery.

Overview of Governance Structure

FIGURE 4-1
TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK

Governance Framework

The TSRA’s governance framework provides a system of direction and controls, enabling regional outcomes to be achieved through organisational goals and objectives. The framework allows risks and issues to be escalated to the appropriate level. The resolution of risks and issues occurs through formal project management structures, programme structures, the TSRA Programme Steering Committee, the TSRA Audit Committee and the TSRA Board.

TSRA Board

The TSRA Board is an elected representative body which participates in scheduled quarterly meetings and issue-specific out-of-session meetings.

The Chairperson and Executive Members of the TSRA are elected by the members at the first Board meeting following the TSRA elections. The Chairperson is a full-time Principal Executive Officer, while other Board members are part-time officials who are remunerated in accordance with the determinations of the Remuneration Tribunal.

The primary functions of the Board are to:

set out the TSRA’s vision for the Torres Strait

oversee the TSRA’s strategic objectives and direction

approve programme mandates

review the TSRA’s performance, objectives and outcomes

manage strategic risk and regional stakeholder relations.

All TSRA Board members are also officials under the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (Cth) and are classified as Non-Executive Directors. The Board is the accountable authority for the TSRA.

2016-2020 Appointments

The TSRA Board consists of 20 members elected under Division 5 of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth). The 20 members represent the communities of Badu, Bamaga, Boigu, Dauan, Erub, Hammond, Iama, Kubin, Mabuyag, Masig, Mer, Ngarupai and Muralag, Port Kennedy, Poruma, Seisia, Saibai, St Pauls, TRAWQ, Ugar and Warraber. Current Board members were elected in July 2016 and will serve on the Board until the next TSRA elections are held in 2020. Elections for Board office holders were held at the first meeting of the new Board, in September 2016.

In September 2017, the Australian Electoral Commission declared Mr Jimmy Gela the successful candidate to fill the position of Member for Erub, following the resignation of Mr Kenny Bedford.

Profiles of TSRA Board Members

MR NAPAU PEDRO STEPHEN AM
CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBER FOR PORT KENNEDY

In July 2016 Mr Napau Pedro Stephen was elected to the TSRA Board for the second time. Mr Stephen’s previous term was 2000-2004.

In September 2016 Mr Stephen was elected as the Chairperson and Portfolio Member for Governance and Leadership. He is also a member of the TSRA Regional Governance Committee.

Mr Stephen has over 30 years of extensive executive leadership and management experience with Australian Government and state and local government agencies and community organisations. The former Mayor of Torres Shire Council, he was the longest serving mayor in Queensland.

Mr Stephen is a board member of the Port Kennedy Association and Community Enterprise Queensland (formerly known as the Islanders Board of Industry and Service).

The keys issues of concern for Mr Stephen are housing, unemployment, health, domestic violence, and substance abuse. He aims to address these issues through programmes which improve health care practices and the wellbeing of our families and support ways for families to access affordable housing. He will advocate for increasing the wealth of our region through developing local industries and jobs and supporting community organisations with service delivery.

During his term, Mr Stephen would like to provide strong leadership that promotes people’s honesty and loyalty and outstanding customer service. He would like to lead and establish a single regional governance authority in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area, to provide effective and efficient governance with a model of hope and security in line with social and economic independence for people living in the Torres Strait.

MR JERRY D STEPHEN JR
DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBER FOR UGAR

In July 2016 Mr Jerry D Stephen Jr was elected to the TSRA Board for the second time. Mr Stephen’s previous term was 2012-2016. In September 2016 Mr Stephen was elected as the Deputy Chairperson and Portfolio Member for Fisheries.

Mr Stephen, an Ugaram Le from Ugar (Stephen Island), was born and educated on Waiben (Thursday Island). He identifies as both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, as his grandfather was traditionally adopted to the Wuthathi Tribe.

Mr Stephen is a qualified skipper and fisherman and has over 25 years of experience working in the private and public sectors. His work has included the delivery of Australian Government programmes throughout the Torres Strait.

Mr Stephen is passionate about the many issues affecting the people of Torres Strait. Those issues include 100 per cent ownership of all fisheries; the delivery of affordable home ownership; climate change; health and wellbeing; Native Title rights and recognition; economic development and employment; better management of culture and arts; appropriate government structure; and the deterioration of public infrastructure.

While on the TSRA Board, Mr Stephen will continue to address the many issues affecting our communities, while working collaboratively with all stakeholders to jointly improve the wellness within our communities.

MR ERIC PETER
ALTERNATE DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON and MEMBER FOR BOIGU

In July 2016 Mr Eric Peter was elected to the TSRA Board for the second time. Mr Peter’s previous term was 2012-2016. In September 2016 Mr Peter was elected as the Alternate Deputy Chairperson and Portfolio Member for Native Title.

Mr Peter is the Deputy Chairperson of Mura Boigulgaw Aiy Kuyk Corporation and a member of Malu Ki’ai (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation.

Mr Peter holds an Associate Degree in Business and Finance and a Certificate IV in Quarantine and Export Inspection. He has completed Australian Public Service (APS) leadership programmes and worked in the APS for more than 21 years. Mr Peter is currently employed by the Queensland Police Service and employed as a Torres Strait Islander police officer in his community.

Mr Peter’s key concern is the need to improve economic growth in fishing and other industries in the Torres Strait region, in order to create opportunities for people at the grassroots level to improve their lifestyles. He believes that economic growth is important for our families in the region.

Mr Peter aims to improve economic development in the Torres Strait region and progress Native Title matters with the government, for our people.

MR HORACE BAIRA
MEMBER FOR BADU

In July 2016 Mr Baira was elected to the TSRA Board for the first time. Mr Baira is a member of the TSRA Audit Committee and the Project Steering Committee, Community Management Framework Project (Fisheries Programme).

Mr Baira is a member of the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Board, and a former Councillor for Badu Island on the Torres Strait Island Regional Council.

Mr Baira has experience in environmental health; community management; rural and remote operations; and small business management.

Mr Baira’s key issues of concern are the ineffectiveness of integrated service delivery between stakeholders in the Torres Strait region and the allocation of resources towards community and economic development.

Mr Baira would like to provide direction towards the future planning of regional governance and community development that will support a safe and healthy region and a strong economy while conserving the Ailan Kastom and our natural environment.

MRS PATRICIA YUSIA
MEMBER FOR BAMAGA

In July 2016 Mrs Patricia Yusia was elected to the TSRA Board for the first time. In September 2016 Mrs Yusia was elected as the Portfolio Member for Healthy Communities.

Mrs Yusia has over 21 years of experience as a director of non-government organisations. She serves as a director of local community organisations, including the Bamagau Kazil Torres Strait Islanders Corporation, Apunipima Cape Yorke Health Council and Northern Peninsula Area Family and Community Family Services. She is also a member of the Mura Badulgal (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation Board.

Mrs Yusia has 26 years of experience in the health sector, and holds a Diploma in Governance, a Diploma in Primary Health Care, a Degree in Health Science and a Graduate Diploma in Health Promotion.

Mrs Yusia’s key areas of concern are the health and wellbeing of individuals, families and communities; community engagement; overcrowding in housing; lack of employment opportunities; domestic violence; child safety; child care; and drugs and alcohol.

Mrs Yusia aims to address these issues by working with relevant government stakeholders to ensure that adequate programmes and services are delivered to the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area communities.

Mrs Yusia also acknowledges that it is important to empower and support the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership through upskilling and support for current and future community initiatives, workshops, mentoring and guidance for people who would like to start their own businesses or take on challenging roles.

Mrs Yusia also seeks to address the social and cultural barriers which affect the wellbeing and health of our people, by adopting an approach centred on community and family, gathering real data and having skilled local people in key positions.

Mrs Yusia aims to improve Indigenous leadership, health partnerships, and social and cultural determinants which affect our lifestyle. She also wants to lobby and allocate more funding for organisations which empower groups in the communities to be sustainable, believing that it is important to encourage communities to work together for a brighter, healthy future for our children and future generations.

MR JOEL GAIDAN
MEMBER FOR DAUAN

In July 2016 Mr Joel Gaidan was elected to the TSRA Board for the first time.

Mr Gaidan was Councillor for Dauan on the Torres Strait Island Regional Council in 2012-2016, and was employed by the council as an environmental health worker. He is in the process of completing a Diploma of Environmental Health.

Mr Gaidan’s key areas of concern for his community include addressing the shortage of housing; upgrading and maintaining the water supply and rubbish dump; sealing roads; and addressing the mobile telephone blackspot at the back of Dauan.

Mr Gaidan’s main priorities for his time on the Board are re-establishing the community’s ferry service and repairing and upgrading the community’s pontoon facility.

MR JIMMY GELA
MEMBER FOR ERUB

In September 2017 Mr Jimmy Gela was elected to the TSRA Board for the first time.

Mr Gela is the Chairperson of Erubam Le Traditional Land and Sea Owners (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation; a director of Malu Lamar (Torres Strait Islander) Corporation, the Torres Strait Islanders Media Association and Ged Erub Trading Homeland Enterprise (Torres Strait Islander) Corporation; and a member of the Erub Fisheries Management Association. Mr Gela is also a former Councillor for Erub on the Torres Strait Island Regional Council.

Mr Gela has experience in building construction and roads and drainage maintenance, and holds a Medium Rigid driver’s licence.

Mr Gela is interested in the issues of maintaining cultural and traditional knowledge and practices, and upskilling locals to obtain qualifications, particularly in the trades or business administration. He is also concerned about criminal activities in his community of Erub.

Mr Gela would like lessons on cultural and traditional knowledge to be taught in schools on the outer islands, training providers to provide training to assist locals to obtain a trade or business qualification, and the Queensland Police Service to have an ongoing presence in the Erub community for more than two years.

During his term, Mr Gela will ensure that the decisions he makes will be fair and beneficial to his constituents in Erub and the people of the Torres Strait.

MR SERIAKO DORANTE
MEMBER FOR HAMMOND

In July 2016 Mr Seriako Dorante was elected to the TSRA Board for the first time.

Mr Dorante was the Deputy Chairperson of the Hammond Island Council in 2004-2008.

Mr Dorante holds a Certificate IV in Frontline Management and a Certificate IV in Local Government Administration. He is currently employed as the Divisional Engineering Officer of the Torres Strait Island Regional Council.

Mr Dorante’s key issues of concern are Native Title, housing, employment, health and wellbeing, access to shops, and roads. He believes that these issues can be addressed properly through better consultation processes involving all relevant stakeholders and government bodies.

Mr Dorante will advocate to improve the lifestyles and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in our region.

MR GETANO LUI JR AM
MEMBER FOR IAMA

In July 2016 Mr Getano Lui Jr was elected to the TSRA Board for the fifth time. Mr Lui’s previous terms were 1994-1997, 1997-2000, 2000-2004 and 2012-2016. Mr Lui was the TSRA Board’s first Chairperson.

Mr Lui is the Councillor for Iama on the Torres Strait Island Regional Council. He previously held the positions of Councillor and Chairperson of the Iama Community Council (1997-2004), Chairperson of the Island Coordinating Council (1985-2000) and Chairman of the Islanders Board of Industry and Service (1985-2000).

In 1994 Mr Lui was made a Member of the Order of Australia. He has been a commissioner for declarations since 1979 and a justice of the peace (magistrates court) since 1995.

Between 1976 and 1985 Mr Lui was involved in the ratification of the Torres Strait Treaty between Australia and Papua New Guinea. He is the current Co-Chairperson of the Traditional Inhabitants Meeting at the regular Australia – Papua New Guinea bilateral meetings.

Mr Lui’s key area of concern is the socioeconomic and cultural wellbeing of his people. His priority is to advocate for a form of regional governance that will recognise ‘home rule’ and ultimately lead to a form of regional autonomy that will grant full self-determination to our people of Zenadth Kes, giving us the authority and the capacity to manage and control our own affairs.

MR DAVID BOSUN
MEMBER FOR KUBIN

In July 2016 Mr David Bosun was elected to the TSRA Board for the second time. Mr Bosun previously served on the TSRA Board from 2008 to 2012 and was the rotational member of the TSRA Audit Committee.

Mr Bosun is currently the Councillor for Kubin Community on the Torres Strait Island Regional Council. He is also a Director of Ngalmun Lagau Minaral Arts Torres Strait Islander Corporation.

Mr Bosun holds an Associate Diploma in Journalism and Communication, a Certificate IV in Visual Arts and a Certificate IV in Business Management. Mr Bosun would like to see a marked improvement in the Torres Strait economy through sustainable tourism ventures and the promotion of arts and culture.

Mr Bosun emphasises a grassroots approach to training, employment and economic development that enables communities to become empowered, self-sufficient and independent.

MR CYGNET REPU
MEMBER FOR MABUYAG

In July 2016 Mr Cygnet Repu was elected to the TSRA Board for the first time. In September 2016 Mr Repu was elected as the Portfolio Member for Culture, Art and Heritage.

Mr Repu is the Chairperson of the Goemulgaw Kod, a local cultural organisation on Mabuyag. He is also the Chairperson of the Torres Strait Traditional Language Advisory Committee. He is an experienced culturalist who has presented overseas and is very passionate about acquiring other skills and interests.

Mr Repu has received various awards during his service with Biosecurity Australia over the past 20 years, and will draw from his experiences and qualifications in Biosecurity Australia during his term as Member for Mabuyag.

Mr Repu’s key issues of concern for the Torres Strait are housing, children’s welfare, cultural hunger, community unity, travel and transport. He believes that a sensible way to achieve changes is to focus on each 1 per cent rather than 100 per cent, and that it is much better to keep taking a step forward because each step is a drop of sweat well earned.

MS HILDA MOSBY
MEMBER FOR MASIG

In July 2016 Ms Hilda Mosby was elected to the TSRA Board for the second time. Her previous term was 2012-2016. In September 2016 Ms Mosby was elected as the Portfolio Member for Environmental Management. She is a member of the TSRA Audit Committee.

Ms Mosby has more than 17 years of experience in the APS, working for the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (now part of the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources) and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (now the Department of Home Affairs). Ms Mosby is currently employed as the Senior Housing Officer for the Torres Strait Island Regional Council.

Community involvement has been a paramount focus for Ms Mosby, who is an active member on committees dealing with education, health, justice, fisheries and Native Title in her community of Masig.

Of key concern to Ms Mosby is the impact of coastal erosion on low-lying Torres Strait communities, including her own community. She will advocate for an integrated approach to address coastal erosion issues by the relevant Australian Government and Queensland Government agencies.

The preservation of Torres Strait culture through language, music and art is another area that Ms Mosby is passionate about. She will continue to advocate for the best outcomes for the cultural wellbeing of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in this region.

MR AVEN S NOAH
MEMBER FOR MER

In June 2016 Mr Aven S Noah
was elected to the TSRA Board for the second time. He was the Deputy Chairperson and Portfolio Member for Culture, Arts and Heritage in 2012-2016.

Mr Noah believes that traditional land and sea rights are paramount to controlling resources, and that the TSRA must work closely with Traditional Owners as these resources will form the foundation of the region’s economic independence as an autonomous state. Mr Noah’s passion is for greater autonomy for the people of the Torres Strait and he will continue to support and contribute to the region’s push to achieve ‘home rule’.

Mr Noah is a member of the Round Table on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Statistics; the Centre of Excellence for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Statistics, Australian Bureau of Statistics; and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group, Ipsos Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Unit.

Mr Noah has extensive experience in media and communications and is keen to see the development of media and communications, including new technologies, across the region.

Mr Noah is the Land Administration Manager for the Mer Gedkem Le (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation, and is heavily involved in the development of the Torres Strait Language Strategy through his membership of the Torres Strait Language Reference Group.

MR YEN LOBAN
MEMBER FOR NGARUPAI AND MURALAG

In July 2016 Mr Yen Loban was elected to the TSRA Board for a second time. His previous term was 2012-2016. He is a member of the TSRA Audit Committee.

Mr Loban is also the Deputy Mayor of Torres Shire Council.

Mr Loban’s primary concerns are the lack of basic service infrastructure on Muralag, and the low level of support provided to the ongoing development of Ngarupai and the outer islands.

Mr Loban will work to ensure that the communities of Ngarupai and Muralag are healthy and safe; that those communities receive the same services as other communities receive, across the Torres Strait; and that TSRA programmes focus on equity in service provision to the benefit of those communities.

MR FRANK FAUID
MEMBER FOR PORUMA

In July 2016 Mr Frank Fauid was elected to the TSRA Board for the first time.

Mr Fauid is the Central Islands Representative on the Torres Strait Islanders Media Association Board and a member of Porumalgal (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation.

Mr Fauid is currently employed by the Australia Border Force as a border movement officer on Poruma. Mr Fauid is a pastor of the Australian Christian Churches (Assemblies of God). He has a Certificate III in Micro Business Operations.

Mr Fauid’s key concern is the issue of coastal erosion affecting Poruma and other low-lying communities. His other concerns are the lack of jobs in the communities; the condition of some of the infrastructure in his community, particularly the basketball court; and the need to improve the health and wellbeing of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living in his community and the region.

Mr Fauid will work with the relevant government ministers and stakeholders to address these issues to get the best outcomes for his community and the region.

MS CHELSEA ANIBA
MEMBER FOR SAIBAI

In July 2016 Ms Chelsea Aniba was elected to the TSRA Board for the second time. Her previous term was 2012-2016. In September 2016 Ms Aniba was elected as the Portfolio Member for Safe Communities.

Ms Aniba has qualifications in radio broadcasting, business administration, social housing, Indigenous justice studies and governance.

Ms Aniba has established a profile through her involvement in local radio, including eight years in radio broadcasting, and her membership of the Torres Strait Islanders Media Association Committee of Management. She is also a Director of the Saibai Community Development Corporation, which aims to empower the community through local enterprises.

Ms Aniba’s two primary concerns, which closely affect her home of Saibai Island, are coastal erosion and rising sea levels; and the insufficient supply of social housing. She is pleased to see that the construction of a new seawall on Saibai Island was completed in 2016-2017. Ms Aniba will advocate for the ongoing construction of seawalls throughout the affected Torres Strait communities and the rollout of the National Partnership Agreement on Remote Indigenous Housing.

Ms Aniba’s other concerns relate to creating employment and economic development opportunities for local families in small businesses; helping to keep, restore and revitalise our culture; and strengthening Registered Native Title Bodies Corporate to enable them to progress Native Title issues.

Ms Aniba also works closely with non-government organisations in tackling domestic violence, juvenile justice and mental health issues in communities and will advocate for the best outcomes in those areas.

MR JOSEPH ELU AO
MEMBER FOR SEISIA

In July 2016 Mr Joseph Elu was elected to the TSRA Board for the sixth time. His previous terms were 1994-1997, 1997-2000, 2000-2004, 2008-2012 and 2012-2016. Mr Elu was the TSRA Chairperson in 2012-2016.

In September 2016 Mr Elu was elected as the Portfolio Member for Economic Development.

Mr Elu is the Councillor for Seisia on the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council, and has 21 years of experience as the Chairman of the Seisia Island Council. He is the Chairperson of Seisia Enterprises Pty Ltd and Seisia Community Torres Strait Islander Corporation.

In 2017 Mr Elu was appointed Deputy Chairperson of the Indigenous Land Corporation Board. He was the Chairperson of Indigenous Business Australia (formerly known as the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commercial Development Corporation) for 12 years.

In 2001 Mr Elu was awarded the Centenary Medal. In 2008 he was made an Officer of the Order of Australia and awarded the NAIDOC Lifetime Achievement Award.

During his career, Mr Elu has been an influential leader in Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal affairs and Indigenous economic development, and has been instrumental in assisting Indigenous people throughout Australia to develop sustainable economic enterprises.

MR JOHN PAIWAN
MEMBER FOR ST PAULS

In July 2016 Mr John Paiwan was elected to the TSRA Board for the first time.

Mr Paiwan has nine years of experience in local government as an employee of the Torres Strait Island Regional Council. He has a Certificate IV in Occupational Health and Safety and is currently undertaking studies in a Diploma of Leadership and Management.

Mr Paiwan’s key concerns are upgrading infrastructure in communities, especially water services; supporting the construction of subdivisions for future development, especially for St Pauls; increasing support for training and employment of local people; and supporting small business and economic development in the region.

He aims to achieve his goals by working in partnership with the Torres Strait Island Regional Council and other service providers and local organisations in the region, and by lobbying government to address and support community concerns.

MR JOHN ABEDNEGO
MEMBER FOR TRAWQ

In July 2016 Mr John Abednego was elected to the TSRA Board for the sixth time, as the Member for TRAWQ (communities of Tamwoy, Rose Hill, Aplin, Waiben and Quarantine on Thursday Island). His previous terms were 1994-1997, 1997-2000, 2000-2004, 2008-2012 and 2012-2016.

Mr Abednego was the Chairperson of the TSRA Board in 1997-2000, Portfolio Member for Legal and Media in 2000-2004, and Portfolio Member for Safe Communities in 2012-2016.

Mr Abednego is a Councillor on the Torres Shire Council, a member of the Parents and Citizens Committee of the Tagai State College Thursday Island Secondary Campus, and President of the TRAWQ Indigenous Corporation. He also plays a role in the Anglican Church.

Mr Abednego has a Diploma of Counselling and 20 years of experience in community, organisation and board development; policies and procedures; and government systems. During his career he has been involved in mediation and counselling, court referrals, and social justice interagency networking.

Mr Abednego’s key concerns are lack of funding, inappropriate policies and the fact that culture and the mainstream are not equal partners. To address those concerns he aims to seek outside funding, have dedicated positions for cultural people, and ensure that cultural people are involved in developing culturally appropriate policies with meaningful outcomes.

Mr Abednego aims to achieve effective processes that deliver meaningful outcomes in the community.

MR WILLIE LUI
MEMBER FOR WARRABER

In July 2016 Mr Willie Lui was elected to the TSRA Board for the third time. His previous terms were 2008-2012 and 2012-2016.

Mr Lui served as Councillor for Warraber Island on the Torres Strait Island Regional Council in 2008-2012 and 2012-2016.

Mr Lui holds a Certificate IV in Finance and is a qualified carpenter.

The key areas of concern for Mr Lui are the high cost of living, lack of employment opportunities, and Native Title issues. He will work to see those concerns addressed through effective implementation of the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Plan 2009-2029 and the TSRA’s Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018.

Board Meetings

The TSRA Chairperson is required to convene at least four board meetings each year under Section 144E of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth). If it is considered necessary, the TSRA Chairperson may convene other meetings of the TSRA Board to enable the TSRA to carry out its functions.

During 2017-2018, the TSRA Board held four Board meetings as detailed in Table 4-1. Attendance at Board meetings is outlined in Table 4-2.

Table 4-1

Board Meeting Dates and Apologies

Meeting No. | Dates | Apologies | Absent
104 | 5-7 September 2017 | Mr Aven S Noah Ms Hilda Mosby Mr Joseph Elu (Day 3) | Nil
105 | 29 November – 1 December 2017 | Mrs Patricia Yusia (Day 1 – afternoon session, Day 2 and Day 3) Ms Hilda Mosby (Day 2 and Day 3) | Nil
106 | 14-16 March 2018 | Mr Willie Lui (Day 1 and Day 2) Mr John Abednego (Day 2) | Nil

107

13-15 June 2018

Mrs Patricia Yusia (Day 1 – the morning)

Mr Jimmy Gela (Day 1 – the morning)

Mr Yen Loban (Day 1 – the morning)

Mr Eric Peter (Day 2 – joined meeting at 10.10am)

Nil

Table 4-2

Board Meeting Attendance

Member | Number of meetings attended | Member | Number of meetings attended
Mr Napau Pedro Stephen | 4 of 4 | Mr Cygnet Repu | 4 of 4
Mr Jerry D Stephen Jr | 4 of 4 | Ms Hilda Mosby | 3 of 4
Mr Eric Peter | 3.5 of 4 | Mr Aven S Noah | 3 of 4
Mr Horace Baira | 4 of 4 | Mr Yen Loban | 3.5 of 4
Mrs Patricia Yusia | 3 of 4 | Mr Frank Fauid | 4 of 4
Mr Joel Gaidan | 4 of 4 | Ms Chelsea Aniba | 4 of 4
Mr Jimmy Gela | 3.5 of 4 | Mr Joseph Elu | 3.5 of 4
Mr Seriako Dorante | 4 of 4 | Mr John Paiwan | 4 of 4
Mr Getano Lui Jr | 4 of 4 | Mr John Abednego | 3.5 of 4
Mr David Bosun | 4 of 4 | Mr Willie Lui | 3.5 of 4

Board Charter and Ethics

The second edition of the TSRA Board Charter was adopted in 2016. The charter brings together all resources that Board members require to enable them to exercise their powers and responsibilities.

The TSRA Board Charter is based on ethical standards and good governance and contains key documents such as the Board Member’s Code of Conduct, the TSRA’s Charter of Representation, Performance and Accountability, and the terms of reference relating to Board committees.

Board Member Induction

The TSRA Board elections were conducted on 30 July 2016. A Board Induction Programme was undertaken by all elected TSRA Board members between 29 August and 2 September 2016. The programme was delivered by Effective Governance and was based on key governance roles, Board functions and processes, and Board members’ matters.

Board Code of Conduct

The TSRA Board Member’s Code of Conduct and ethics policies are published in the TSRA Board Charter.

Board Training and Education

In June 2018, TSRA Board members undertook an intensive two-day Indigenous Governance Programme on Thursday Island. Delivered by the Australian Institute of Company Directors, the programme provided members with professional development in assessing financial statements and organisational performance, as well as understanding their strategic role in the agency and how to engage with and understand the risks of decision-making at the Board level.

All Board members attended the TSRA’s Board Strategic Training Workshop in March 2018. The workshop focused on the TSRA’s financial, strategic planning and risk framework.

Board members are also eligible to apply for the TSRA’s leadership capacity building programmes. Individual qualifications are stated in the 'Profiles of TSRA Board Members' in this section of the Annual Report.

Executive Committee

The TSRA Board formed an Executive Committee at its meeting in September 2016 to assist the Chairperson to carry out his functions. The portfolio structure of the Executive Committee is aligned to the TSRA’s eight programmes.

Executive Committee meetings are held quarterly, immediately prior to each TSRA Board meeting. The TSRA Chairperson may call for additional Executive Committee meetings should they be required.

The Executive Committee’s objectives are to:

ensure that policies and future directives are made in accordance with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth), the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (Cth) and other relevant legislation

advocate for improved outcomes in the Torres Strait region

represent the views of the TSRA on internal and external committees

assist the TSRA Chairperson to communicate to Torres Strait communities government policies and TSRA decisions and achievements as they relate to the Executive Committee’s portfolio responsibilities.

Membership

The 2017-2018 Executive Committee members and their portfolio responsibilities are shown in Table 4-3.

Table 4-3

Membership of the 2017-2018 Executive Committee

Member | Role
Mr Napau Pedro Stephen | Chairperson Portfolio Member for Governance and Leadership
Mr Jerry D Stephen | Deputy Chairperson Portfolio Member for Fisheries
Mr Eric Peter | Alternate Deputy Chairperson Portfolio Member for Native Title
Mr Joseph Elu | Portfolio Member for Economic Development
Ms Chelsea Aniba | Portfolio Member for Safe Communities
Ms Hilda Mosby | Portfolio Member for Environmental Management
Mr Cygnet Repu | Portfolio Member for Culture, Arts and Heritage
Mrs Patricia Yusia | Portfolio Member for Healthy Communities

Meetings

In 2017–2018, the TSRA Executive Committee met four times as shown in Table 4-4.

Table 4-4

Executive Committee Meeting Dates and Apologies

Dates | Apologies | Absent
1 September 2017 | Nil | Nil
27 November 2017 | Nil | Nil
12 March 2018 | TSRA Portfolio Member for Environmental Management and Member for Masig | Nil
11 June 2018 | TSRA Portfolio Member for Safe Communities and Member for Saibai (attended from 12.30pm) | Nil

Attendance at Executive Committee meetings is shown in Table 4-5.

Table 4-5

Executive Committee Meeting Attendance

Member | Number of meetings attended
Mr Napau Pedro Stephen | 3 of 3
Mr Jerry D Stephen Jr | 3 of 3
Mr Eric Peter | 3 of 3
Mr Joseph Elu | 3 of 3
Ms Chelsea Aniba | 2.5 of 3
Ms Hilda Mosby | 2 of 3
Mr Cygnet Repu | 3 of 3
Mrs Patricia Yusia | 3 of 3

Other corporate and advisory Committees

Programme Steering Committee

The TSRA has in place a Programme Steering Committee (PSC) to monitor the performance of its programmes and operations. The TSRA’s programmes manage projects and ongoing activities contributing to the outcomes outlined in the Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018 and the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Plan 2009-2029.

The PSC consists of the TSRA’s Chief Executive Officer, programme managers, project managers and Chief Financial Officer. The PSC meets on a quarterly basis and also, when required, out of session, to consider specific project risks and issues. The PSC considers programme resources and ensures that strategies and operational activities align with the TSRA’s overall outcomes.

Audit Committee

Advisory committees are those committees established under Section 142M of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth). The TSRA has one advisory committee, the TSRA Audit Committee.

The TSRA is required to have an Audit Committee under section 45 of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (Cth). The TSRA Board is responsible for appointing the Audit Committee to provide independent advice and assistance to the TSRA Board on the risk control and compliance frameworks as well as the TSRA’s external accountability responsibilities.

The Audit Committee consists of four members. The Chairperson of the Audit Committee is an independent member from the accountancy firm HLB Mann Judd (previously ShineWing Australia). The Chairperson of the Audit Committee provides technical expertise and experience, and advice on best practice accounting and auditing standards in the public sector. The Chairperson can request special meetings of the TSRA Audit Committee if considered necessary.

The current TSRA Audit Committee was endorsed by the incoming TSRA Board at its inaugural meeting in September 2016.

Membership

The membership of the Audit Committee during 2017-2018 is shown in Table 4-6.

Table 4-6

Audit Committee Members

Name | Role
Mr Adrian Kelly | Chairperson and Independent Member
Mr Horace Baira | Member for Badu
Mr Yen Loban | Member for Ngarupai and Muralag
Ms Hilda Mosby | Member for Masig

Meetings

The Audit Committee met four times in 2017-2018, as shown in Table 4-7. Attendance at Audit Committee meetings is shown in Table 4-8.

Table 4-7

Audit Committee Meeting Dates and Apologies

Dates | Apologies
4 September 2017 | Nil
28 November 2017 | Nil
13 March 2018 | Nil
12 June 2018 | Nil

Table 4-8

Attendance at Audit Committee Meetings

Member | Number of meetings attended
Mr Adrian Kelly | 4 of 4
Mr Horace Baira | 4 of 4
Mr Yen Loban | 4 of 4
Ms Hilda Mosby | 4 of 4

Finfish Quota Management Committee

The TSRA Board established the Finfish Quota Management Committee (FQMC) as a formal advisory committee under Section 142M of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth).

The FQMC was established by the Board in 2007 to provide advice on leasing arrangements in the Torres Strait finfish fishery, following the transfer of the fishery to 100 per cent ownership. The Terms of Reference for the FQMC set out the membership to be the four TSRA Board members from the finfish communities (Erub, Masig, Mer and Ugar), an independent TSRA Board member as Chairperson, and one community fisher representative from each of the finfish communities.

The current Chairperson (the Member for Ngarupai and Muralag) and community fisher representatives have been appointed members of the FQMC for the term of the sitting TSRA Board. Membership of the committee expires on the date the Australian Electoral Commission issues a notice of election for the TSRA.

Membership

Membership of the FQMC during 2017-2018 is shown in Table 4-9.

Table 4-9

Finfish Quota Management Committee Members

Name | Role
Mr Yen Loban | Chairperson (TSRA Member for Ngarupai and Muralag)
Mr Jerry D Stephen Jr | TSRA Member for Ugar
Mr Daniel Stephen | Ugar community fisher representative
Mr Aven S Noah | TSRA Member for Mer
Mr John Tabo Jr | Mer community fisher representative
Ms Hilda Mosby | TSRA Member for Masig
Mr John Morris | Masig community fisher representative
Mr Jimmy Gela | TSRA Member for Erub
Mr Daniel Sailor | Erub community fisher representative

Meetings

The FQMC met one time in 2017-2018, as shown in Table 4-10. Members’ attendance at FQMC meetings is shown in Table 4-11.

Table 4-10

Finfish Quota Management Committee Meeting Dates and Apologies

Dates | Apologies
15-16 February | Ms Hilda Mosby

Table 4-11

Attendance at Finfish Quota Management Committee Meetings

Member | Number of meetings attended
Mr Yen Loban | 1 of 1
Mr Jerry D Stephen Jr | 1 of 1
Mr Daniel Stephen | 1 of 1
Mr Aven S Noah | 1 of 1
Mr John Tabo Jr | 1 of 1
Ms Hilda Mosby | 0 of 1
Mr John Morris | 1 of 1
Mr Jimmy Gela | 1 of 1
Mr Daniel Sailor | 1 of 1

Enabling Functions

Information Management and Technology

Telstra Regional Communications Upgrade

In January 2017, the TSRA partnered with the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources (DAWR) and Telstra on a two-stage project to upgrade telecommunications infrastructure, provide a platform for 4G technology and deliver increased network backhaul capacity for the Torres Strait region. The first stage of the project was costed at $8.26 million.

In June 2018, Telstra informed the TSRA that the first stage of the project had been completed. The scope of works included improved 3G performance by increased backhaul capacity from all 3G sites to the mainland; a new network build to Erub; new 4G technology at Badu and Kubin Village; and new 4G-ready infrastructure and backhaul capacity at Mabuyag, Ugar, Erub and Mer.

The second phase of the project is valued at $15.62 million.

The TSRA will continue to work with Telstra and all levels of government to seek the remaining funding to ensure that the telecommunications infrastructure in the Torres Strait region is capable of delivering the technology and innovation needed to deliver multiple socioeconomic, educational, health and community safety outcomes for the island communities and peoples of the Torres Strait region. Other benefits of this improved network infrastructure expansion include, but are not limited to, enhanced biosecurity, agriculture, and marine safety and border protection measures.

Information and Communications Technology Projects

The TSRA’s information and communications technology (ICT) strategy supports a forward-looking strategic approach to ICT investment and utilisation for the TSRA which is closely aligned with the current APS whole-of-government ICT strategy.

From 2016 to 2019, the TSRA is undertaking a series of projects to improve ICT service delivery and demonstrate value in each of the three priority areas outlined in the overarching APS strategy. The three areas of priority are: deliver better services; improve the efficiency of government services; and engage openly.

The TSRA has been in negotiation with the vendors of its existing finance, human resources, information, content and records management systems to look at the best options for these functions, including possibly moving some services into the cloud, to ensure ongoing ease of access for TSRA staff.

The completed 4G mobile tower at Erub

Environmental Sustainability

Section 516A of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) requires Australian Government organisations to detail their environmental performance and contribution to ecologically sustainable development. Table 4-12 provides an overview of the TSRA’s environmental activities and operations in relation to section 516A of the Act.

Table 4-12

Ecologically Sustainable Development and Environmental Performance

Reporting requirement | TSRA response

How the TSRA’s activities accord with the principles of ecologically sustainable development

The TSRA has reviewed and published an environmental policy outlining measures to improve its ecological sustainability.

During 2017-2018, the TSRA worked on implementing activities identified through its environmental management system, focused on ensuring that the TSRA is taking all reasonable steps to reduce its ecological footprint.

The TSRA’s environmental risks are managed at the project, programme and portfolio levels and are captured in the organisation’s risks and issues registers.

The TSRA maintains an environmental legal and other requirements register.

The TSRA has established a biennial audit process for its environmental management system.

Outcomes contributing to ecologically sustainable development

The TSRA’s Environmental Management Programme contributes to ecologically sustainable development across all Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area communities. This includes:

employing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as trainees, rangers and ranger supervisors

partnering with Tagai State College in the horticulture in schools programme

improving animal management and invasive species control, including management strategies for invasive fish, cane toads, and feral dogs impacting on green turtle nesting sites, and developing a regional pest management strategy

producing biodiversity profiles, fauna surveys and fire management plans for all inhabited Torres Strait islands

providing technical assistance to improve food production in the Torres Strait through a sustainable horticulture programme

working with communities for sustainable management of turtles and dugongs

working with Ergon Energy and other partners to increase the use of renewable energy technologies

developing and implementing actions to build sustainability and resilience across the region through planning for climate change impacts

monitoring environmental change across the region.

Environmental impacts of operations | The TSRA is committed to managing its operations and those of its contractors to minimise adverse environmental impacts and protect the environment. There were no recorded adverse environmental impacts from TSRA activities in 2017-2018.

Measures taken to minimise environmental impacts

Actions during the 2017-2018 period included:

continuing the operation of three solar photovoltaic systems on TSRA office sites, resulting in a projected annual energy saving of 140,000 kilowatt hours

continuing to require employees, contractors and suppliers to comply with the TSRA’s environment policy and environmental management systems by

implementing conservation measures in the TSRA’s offices

minimising the environmental impacts through better design and material selection for new staff housing

requiring contractors to comply with relevant environmental regulatory requirements and minimum environmental performance requirements

managing and reporting environmental incidents

monitoring a range of environmental performance indicators, including energy use within TSRA offices, energy ratings of white goods purchased for TSRA staff housing, fuel consumption and vehicle performance

adopting appropriate technologies to reduce travel and reduce the TSRA’s dependency on paper-based filing systems, including

telephone and videoconferencing facilities

iPads, to be used at all formal meetings, reducing paper consumption

an electronic document and records management system.

Risk Management

The TSRA has standardised its processes for the identification, documentation and management of risks and issues. All TSRA projects and managed activities include risk assessments as part of the project planning and approval process. The TSRA’s management of risk is a continuous cycle (Figure 4-2) involving a systematic process to maintain risk within an acceptable level.

FIGURE 4-2
TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY RISK MANAGEMENT PROCESS

Risk Identification

Risk identification involves identifying the issues that are likely to negatively impact the achievement of the goals of the TSRA. This includes:

political and strategic risks

programme delivery risks

operational support risks.

Risks are identified via:

an annual risk management workshop attended by the TSRA’s Management Group (top-down approach)

completion of individual risk assessments at the programme/project level (bottom-up approach)

audits and assessments conducted through internal and external audit functions.

Risk assessment includes the process of determining the likelihood of a risk occurring and the consequence or impact of the risk.

Risk Appetite

The TSRA is a custodian of the Australian Government’s investment in the future prosperity of the Torres Strait region. Therefore, the TSRA seeks to balance its risk position between:

investment in activities that may drive substantial growth in the region

the need to remain a stable organisation with the capacity to continue to work for the community into the future.

The TSRA’s risk appetite is necessarily around the middle of the risk-taking spectrum. Depending on the results from year to year and community needs, the TSRA may choose to increase or decrease its appetite for higher risk activities.

The TSRA:

accepts a higher risk appetite when approving a new system or process that offers greater processing capacity and efficiencies

accepts a moderate risk appetite for programme outcomes that are aimed at contributing to the regional goals

accepts a low risk appetite for significant breaches of security or unauthorised access to confidential records

accepts a very low risk appetite for risks that would result in physical or mental harm to staff and the environment.

Risk Mitigation

Risk mitigation (or risk reduction) involves developing actions or plans to reduce the risk to an acceptable level. All mitigation steps are assigned an owner and timeframe.

Risk Monitoring

All TSRA employees are expected to identify and manage risks within their span of control.

The members of the TSRA’s Management Group are responsible for:

incorporating suitable risk management activities into business planning (via completion of a risk assessment at the programme or project level)

ensuring that the risk management processes are implemented

ensuring that risk mitigation actions are followed.

The TSRA’s risk management system is:

dynamic – by being responsive to change and assisting corporate learning and continuous improvement

systematic – by being rigorous, transparent and explicit and taking into account stakeholder perspectives

integrated and embedded – in so far as practicable, by reviewing established management planning, decision-making and reporting processes.

The risk management system is based on the better practice principles and processes outlined in the International Standard AS/NZ ISO 31000 Risk Management – principles and guidelines.

Accountability

External Scrutiny

During 2017-2018, the TSRA, as a corporate Commonwealth entity, was accountable to the Parliament of Australia and the Minister for Indigenous Affairs.

The Auditor-General is the TSRA’s external auditor. The audit of the TSRA’s financial statements is conducted in accordance with an audit strategy agreed to by the Auditor-General and the TSRA. The 2017-2018 audit was conducted in August 2018. A copy of the independent auditor’s report, including the auditor’s opinion, is provided as part of the financial statements in Section 5 of this report.

Fraud Control

The TSRA has implemented a fraud control framework in accordance with section 10 of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (Cth). No incidents of fraud were detected in 2017-2018.

Internal Audit

The TSRA Audit Committee is assisted in the internal audit function by an external contractor, HLB Mann Judd. HLB Mann Judd is responsible for implementing the TSRA’s internal audit programme, which aims to provide assurance that key risks are being managed effectively and efficiently, including that the TSRA complies with regulatory requirements and policies.

Compliance Report

In accordance with section 19 of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (Cth), the TSRA provided the Finance Minister and the Minister for Indigenous Affairs with a letter from the TSRA directors. The letter advised that the TSRA:

Has complied with the provisions and requirements of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act); and the PGPA Rules as amended from time to time.

Judicial Decisions and Reviews

The TSRA was not affected by judicial decisions or reviews by outside bodies in 2017–2018.

Indemnities and Insurance Premiums for Officers

The TSRA indemnifies current and former directors and staff members against liability or costs incurred in connection with any claim brought against them as a result of, or in connection with, their appointment to any office or position in the TSRA. The TSRA holds directors’ and officers’ liability insurance cover through Comcover, the Australian Government’s self-managed fund. The TSRA has an annual insurance renewal process, and reviewed its insurance coverage in 2017-2018 to ensure that it remained appropriate for its operations.

During the year, no indemnity-related claims were made, and the TSRA is not aware of any circumstances likely to lead to such claims being made.

The cost of directors’ and officers’ indemnity insurance for 2017-2018 was $7,899.37.

Directors’ Interests Policy

In accordance with the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (Cth) and the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Rule 2014 (Cth), the TSRA Board has a policy and process to manage all direct and indirect conflicts of interest, including a register of all directors’ pecuniary interests and a requirement that directors make a formal declaration of their interests at each TSRA Board meeting. The declarations are recorded in the minutes of the meeting. The pecuniary interest process applies to all governance committees of the TSRA.

Human Resources

The TSRA’s employees are located at TSRA facilities on Thursday Island, and throughout the island communities of the Torres Strait, Queensland. A small TSRA office in Cairns is used to increase the TSRA’s capacity to attract people with skills and experience not available in the Torres Strait.

The TSRA has a workforce strategy that complements the Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018 and sets the strategic direction for supporting and developing the TSRA’s workforce.

Workplace Agreement

TSRA staff operate under the TSRA Enterprise Agreement 2017. The terms and conditions of employment are set out in this agreement. The TSRA Enterprise Agreement 2017 came into effect from 6 June 2017.

The salary ranges for staff covered under the current Enterprise Agreement range from $43, 604 for an APS level 1 staff member to $138,118 for an EL2 staff member.

Payroll and Leave Records

The human resources and payroll company Frontier Software Pty Ltd provides payroll software to the TSRA to facilitate in-house payroll and leave arrangements.

Learning and Development

The TSRA’s employees attended internal and external learning and development courses throughout 2017-2018. This included programme and project management training, career development training, cultural awareness training, fraud awareness training, accredited relevant university studies and various other courses.

As part of their induction, all new TSRA employees complete the Australian Public Service Commission’s online induction programme. In addition, all TSRA employees who are required to travel as part of their role complete helicopter underwater escape training.

The TSRA Performance Development Programme informs the learning and development required by staff and supports them in achieving the best outcomes possible for them as TSRA employees and as people.

Work Health and Safety

The TSRA fulfilled its responsibilities under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) in 2017-2018.

The TSRA has a Work Health and Safety Management System. One notification was made to Comcare under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) during the year, arising from undertakings by the TSRA.

There were no investigations conducted during the year relating to undertakings carried out by the TSRA and there were no notices given to the TSRA during the year under the Comcare legislation.

The TSRA’s work health and safety consultative arrangements were reviewed during 2017-2018, resulting in improved consultative processes.

The TSRA has trained employees who undertake duties as first-aid officers, fire wardens and health and safety representatives. Health and safety representatives and safety committees work cooperatively to improve all the TSRA’s work health and safety policy and operational matters. Workers are informed of current issues and receive work health and safety information.

The TSRA has a Rehabilitation Management System in accordance with Comcare requirements. The Rehabilitation Management System includes an active early intervention and injury management strategy. A healthy lifestyle reimbursement of up to $200 per year is available to employees.

The TSRA also has in place a Bullying and Harassment Policy, and two trained harassment contact officers are available to provide employee support. The TSRA engages lngeus Australia Pty Ltd trading as Assure Programs (ACN 152 509 37) to provide Employee Assistance Programme services to employees where required.

Workplace Diversity

The TSRA is committed to supporting a culture of equity, inclusion and diversity, and to ensuring that the TSRA workforce is representative of the broader community. The TSRA upholds the Australian Public Service Values and strives to provide a workplace that is free from discrimination and recognises the diversity of the Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal communities that it serves.

THE TSRA IS COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING A CULTURE OF EQUITY, INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY, AND TO ENSURING THAT THE TSRA WORKFORCE IS REPRESENTATIVE OF THE BROADER COMMUNITY.

All TSRA staff receive up-to-date information on developments in human resources, including developments in equal employment opportunities, harassment-free workplaces and workplace diversity. Employees can also access publications from the Australian Public Service Commission and other related agencies.

Workplace Consultative Arrangements

The TSRA fosters and promotes workplace consultation through regular management, programme area and staff meetings. In addition, the TSRA conducts regular meetings with staff representatives on the Workplace Consultative Committee. As appropriate, management consults with employees on major workplace changes, the development of guidelines and policies applying to employment conditions, and the development and implementation of an enterprise agreement.

Privacy

The Australian Information Commissioner did not issue a report on the TSRA under section 30 of the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and no personal privacy complaints were made against the TSRA during the reporting period.

Staffing Profile

Tables 4-13 and 4-14 provide information on the TSRA’s employee numbers and classifications as at 30 June 2018.

Table 4-13

Staff Profile at 30 June 2018 by Classification

Classification | Number of staff
Senior Executive Service or equivalent | 2
Executive Level 2 | 6
Executive Level 1 | 22
Australian Public Service (APS) 6 | 25
APS 5 | 30
APS 4 | 12
APS 3 | 24
APS 2 | 23
APS 1 | 17
Trainee | 1
Total | 162

Table 4-14

Staff Profile at 30 June 2018 by Equal Employment Opportunity Group

Classification | Male | Female | Torres Strait Islander or Aboriginal | People with disability
Senior Executive Service or equivalent | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0
Executive Level 2 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 0
Executive Level 1 | 12 | 10 | 4 | 0
Australian Public Service (APS) 6 | 13 | 12 | 14 | 1
APS 5 | 9 | 21 | 25 | 0
APS 4 | 2 | 10 | 12 | 0
APS 3 | 13 | 11 | 23 | 0
APS 2 | 13 | 10 | 23 | 0
APS 1 | 15 | 2 | 17 | 0
Trainee | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0
Total | 82 | 80 | 122 | 1

Other Reportable Matters

Freedom of Information

Entities subject to the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth) are required to publish information to the public as part of the Information Publication Scheme (IPS). This requirement is in Part II of the Act and has replaced the former requirement to publish a Section 8 statement in an annual report. A plan showing what information the TSRA publishes in accordance with the requirements is available on the TSRA’s website (www.tsra.gov.au/information-publication-scheme2).

Property Management

The TSRA has a property portfolio which includes office accommodation at three sites on Thursday Island; the Gab Titui Cultural Centre; and residential staff accommodation, consisting of 57 houses and apartments. The TSRA also owns and maintains the historic Green Hill Fort, which is listed on the Commonwealth Heritage List.

In addition, the TSRA has a fleet of vehicles and vessels – most of which are located on outer island communities in the Torres Strait as part of the Indigenous Ranger Programme.

Schedules for regular maintenance of property and assets are in place and these works are contracted out to appropriate tradespeople. Ongoing repairs and maintenance are carried out in a way that meets the TSRA’s obligations to environmental sustainability, meets government procurement guidelines and supports Indigenous and local businesses.

The TSRA offices have been through significant and ongoing upgrades to IT systems, equipment, air-conditioning and other soft infrastructure to ensure compliance and scalability to meet current and future demands.

TSRA-owned properties are maintained in line with our five-year maintenance plan, which aims to reduce the cost of reactive property maintenance through planned, targeted property maintenance practices, ensuring that the properties are safe, sustainable, well maintained and fit for purpose.

A major project approved by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works, for an 18-dwelling residential development on Clark Street, Thursday Island, was completed in 2016-2017. The construction of this housing has reduced the TSRA’s reliance on rental accommodation and will provide longer-term financial benefits for the TSRA.

In 2018-2019, the TSRA will undertake further capital works projects, with funding from a grant of $2.989 million from the Australian Government Public Service Modernisation Fund.

One project, involving construction of a commercial building on Thursday Island, will be completed with a minimum Indigenous participation rate of 90 per cent, meaning that 90 per cent of all work hours will be carried out by Indigenous tradespeople and labourers. The new facility will provide increased environmental sustainability and an improved working environment for TSRA staff. The project will be a showcase of sustainable design in remote areas, incorporating solar technology, sustainable water use and other environmental design technologies.

Community infrastructure projects on the outer islands of the Torres Strait in 2018-2019 will include the construction of a multipurpose facility on Erub Island. The Erubam Le Traditional Land and Sea Owners (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation and the TSRA have entered into an Indigenous Land Use Agreement for the use of land for the construction of the facility, which will provide a suitable base for TSRA land and sea rangers and their vessels and vehicles and other TSRA assets.

The TSRA is also looking to provide opportunities for other government agencies and non-government organisations to lease office spaces within these facilities.

Disclosure of Sacred Matters

In accordance with section 144ZB(4) of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth), the TSRA Annual Report 2017-2018 does not disclose any matters known to the TSRA to be held sacred by Torres Strait Islanders or Aboriginal people.

Appendix 1: Organisational Structure

FIGURE 6-1
TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY STRUCTURE

Appendix 2: Advertising and Market Research

The TSRA advertises all ongoing vacancies and non-ongoing vacancies of more than 12 months using the APSjobs website and other selected national advertising. The TSRA uses the Australian Government’s preferred supplier, Dentsu Mitchell Media Australia Pty Ltd, to advertise tenders and recruitment notices.

The TSRA also uses Far North Queensland region-based print media for advertising job vacancies, for publishing media releases and tenders, and for distributing the TSRA Community Newsletters, in line with the Commonwealth Procurement Rules.

The TSRA did not conduct any advertising campaigns or make payments to market research, polling, direct mail or media advertising organisations in 2017-2018.

Appendix 3: Grants

Table 6-1

Details of Grants (Total from Audited Financial Statements – Detail Unaudited)

Grant Recipient | Activity | Amount ($)
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service | Legal services | 66,364
Australian Fisheries Management Authority | Torres Strait Traditional Inhabitant representation at Protected Zone Joint Authority forums | 56,869
Australian Maritime Safety Authority | Torres Strait Marine Safety Programme | 50,000
Cairns Indigenous Art Fair Limited | Fund dance team to attend Cairns Indigenous Art Fair | 33,950
Church of Torres Strait Diocese | Tagai Territory Ltd community wellbeing project | 30,000
Erub Erwer Meta Torres Strait Islander Corporation | Merchandise marketing | 23,000
Far North Queensland Promotion Bureau Ltd | Tourism coordinator grant | 272,727
Goemulgaw Torres Strait Islanders Corporation | Basalaya Kwaya – 80th anniversary of the first councillors’ meeting on Masig | 10,840
Indigenous Business Australia | Larissa Takai housing loan | 348,500
Kaurareg Native Title Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC | Prescribed Body Corporate support | 128,000
Kerkar Bau Men’s Support Group | Kerkar Bau Men’s Support Group establishment project | 44,000
Lena Passi Women’s Shelter | Domestic and family violence project officer | 76,000
Lena Passi Women’s Shelter | Domestic and family violence project | 50,000
Mabuygiw Garkaziw Kupay Torres Strait Islander Corporation | Mabuyag language project | 11,009
May Wasada Passi | 2018 Mabo Day celebrations | 9,660
Mer Gedkem Le (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation | Enterprise divestment | 1,100,000
Mer Gedkem Le (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation | Prescribed Body Corporate support | 84,545
Mura Badulgal (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation | Badhulgaw Danlayg Muykupadh Pathamukmik | 25,000
Mura Badulgal (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation | Enterprise divestment | 1,100,000
Mura Badulgal (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation | Prescribed Body Corporate support | 225,880
Mura Kosker Sorority | Artist technical skills development | 25,000
Mura Kosker Sorority | Develop and increase knowledge in 3D printing | 5,000
Mura Kosker Sorority | Papa (Father and Son Volume 2) | 24,254
Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council | Tourism officer | 300,000
Port Kennedy Association | After-school care | 197,000
Raw Productions | Active Badu Community | 11,500
Roman Catholic Trust Corporation for Diocese of Cairns | Oceans of Plastic | 9,493
Saam Karem Era Kodo Mer Dance Troupe | Perform at Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival | 25,000
Tagai Primary School | Muy Lak Kadaka Mayka (Keep the fire burning) | 14,811
Tagai Primary School | Start Strong Club | 12,055
Tagai Primary School | Start Strong Club | 12,533
Tagai State College | Growing Our Own | 400,000
Tagai State College | Language centre operations | 241,500
Tagai State College Parents and Citizens Association | Sharing Women’s Stories | 15,000
Tony Harry | New Creation | 4,545
Torres Shire Council | 75th anniversary of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion | 25,000
Torres Shire Council | Pool lifeguard and swim teacher training | 5,000
Torres Shire Council | Cycleway | 600,000
Torres Shire Council | Paving Ken Brown Oval | 500,000
Torres Shire Council | Tourism officer | 300,000
Torres Strait Fishers Association Incorporated | Fishers’ association capacity building | 35,000
Torres Strait Island Regional Council | Kulkalgaw Ya Revitalisation Language Programme Workshop | 20,900
Torres Strait Islanders Media Association | Ron Enosa CD of traditional and contemporary songs | 25,000
Torres Strait Islanders Media Association | Bua Benjamin Mabo Meriam CD recording project | 22,600
Torres Strait Islanders Media Association | Operational funding | 390,000
Torres Strait Islanders Media Association | Sinaw Minaral (Footprints) | 25,000
Torres Strait Islanders Media Association | Black paradise songwriting and recording project | 13,420
Torres Strait Islanders Media Association | Meriam Atami – Cultural immersion and maintenance project | 16,606
Torres Strait Islanders Media Association | Fund dance team to attend Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair | 55,000
Torres Strait Islanders Media Association | Operational funding | 795,000
Torres Strait Island Regional Council | Commonwealth Games baton relay | 10,000
Torres Strait Island Regional Council | Tourism officer/events coordinator | 500,000
Torres Strait Major Infrastructure and Other Projects Trust Fund | Poruma coastal erosion | 650,000
Torres Strait Major Infrastructure and Other Projects Trust Fund | Minor Infrastructure Grants – Torres Shire Council and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council | 887,655
Torres Strait Major Infrastructure and Other Projects Trust Fund | Telstra project | 590,113
Torres Strait Youth and Recreational Sporting Association | Sports equipment utility vehicle | 43,200
TRAWQ Indigenous Corporation | Purchase office furniture and equipment | 14,800
Total |  | 10,568,329

Appendix 4: Consultants

Table 6-2

Details of Consultants (Total from Audited Financial Statements – Detail Unaudited)

Name | Amount ($) | Purpose | Selection Process | Justification Code
Accsys Consulting | 99,480 | Review loans policies and procedures | Open tender | B
ACIL Allen Consulting | 84,900 | Review of legal services in the Torres Strait | Select tender | C
Acuro Business Support | 17,268 | Business support panel | Open tender | B
AH Consulting | 4,800 | Review of seawalls project | Direct sourcing | C
ALH Birch | 24,973 | Business support panel | Open tender | B
Arafura Consulting | 14,321 | Native Title anthropology | Direct sourcing | B
Astral Consulting | 257,018 | Upgrade of document and records management system | Direct sourcing | B
Australian Bureau of Statistics | 100,000 | Establishment of the Torres Strait Regional Statistics Data Library | Direct sourcing | B
BANI Consultancy | 3,150 | Review dugong and turtle plan | Direct sourcing | C
Business Mapping Solutions | 9,773 | Business support panel | Open tender | B
Cox Inall Ridgeway | 89,100 | Torres Strait Islanders Media Association Review | Open tender | C
David Fell Environmental | 112,450 | Biodiversity and traditional ecological knowledge activities | Direct sourcing | B
David S Trigger and Associates | 17,850 | Native Title anthropology | Direct sourcing | B
Debe Mekik Le Consultancy | 99,500 | Fisheries infrastructure audit | Open tender | B
Deltapoint | 12,460 | Human resources and recruitment support | Open tender | B
DFK Kidsons | 9,130 | Business support panel | Open tender | B
Emamulda Consulting | 2,292 | Native Title anthropology | Direct sourcing | B
Enmark Pty Ltd | 49,113 | Business support panel | Open tender | B
Environmental Systems Solutions | 212,900 | Traditional ecological knowledge fulcrum and work planner systems | Direct sourcing | B
Environmental Systems Solutions | 19,600 | Traditional ecological knowledge system on Saibai | Direct sourcing | B
Environmental Systems Solutions | 42,000 | Design information management and monitoring system for the Land and Sea Management Unit | Direct sourcing | B
Environmental Systems Solutions | 39,900 | Saibai and Erub seasonal calendar | Direct sourcing | B
Fortis One Business Support | 12,340 | Business support panel | Open tender | B
Gibsons Business Support | 31,375 | Business support panel | Open tender | B
Grant Thornton | 49,954 | Business support panel | Open tender | B
HKS Russell Pty Ltd | 12,200 | TRAWQ community strategic workshop | Direct sourcing | B
HLB Mann Judd | 12,624 | Internal audit services | Open tender | B
HLB Mann Judd Melbourne | 9,945 | Independent Chairperson of the Audit Committee | Open tender | B
Indigenous Business Australia | 31,949 | Facilitate workshop | Direct sourcing | B
Internal Centre for Compliance Management | 96,000 | Compliance management framework | Direct sourcing | B
James Cook University | 98,660 | Wetland and mangrove programme | Direct sourcing | B
James Cook University | 2,954 | Intertidal seagrass monitoring workshop and training | Direct sourcing | B
James Cook University | 125,000 | TropWATER seagrass monitoring | Direct sourcing | B
James Cook University | 18,298 | Cane toad control measures | Direct sourcing | B
James Cook University | 27,653 | Record seagrass | Direct sourcing | B
KPMG | 12,353 | Business support panel | Open tender | B
LANDROC Pty Ltd | 122,697 | Develop and deliver information sessions on the history and way forward for sea claims | Direct sourcing | B
Melanie Dulfer-Hyams | 18,396 | Update Indigenous Protected Areas plan | Direct sourcing | B
MLCS Corporate | 11,350 | Business support panel | Open tender | B
One Blood Hidden Image Entertainment Group | 82,688 | Regional Economic Investment Strategy video | Direct sourcing | B
Pacific Social Mapping | 14,271 | Native Title anthropology | Direct sourcing | B
Phillip Mills | 140,000 | Secretariat services for developing the regional governance framework | Direct sourcing | B
Pilot Partners | 134,418 | Internal audit services | Open tender | B
Regional Advisory and Innovation Network | 59,500 | Update management plan for Indigenous Protected Area | Select tender | B
Ridge Partners | 29,000 | Fisheries business growth package | Direct sourcing | B
Samuel Taylor | 246,061 | ICT support and integration | Direct sourcing | B
SC Lennon and Associates | 22,080 | Establish business growth package | Direct sourcing | C
SC Lennon and Associates | 42,900 | Tourism business growth package | Direct sourcing | B
Social Ventures Australia Ltd | 100,000 | Social enterprise package | Direct sourcing | B
Social Ventures Australia Ltd | 27,135 | Social return on investment training | Direct sourcing | B
Stuart Boyd-Law | 85,551 | Feral pig eradication | Select tender | B
Tagai State College | 165,000 | Environmental education coordination | Direct sourcing | B
Terra Moana Design Pty Ltd | 61,006 | Fisheries community management framework | Direct sourcing | C
TerraForm Design Pty Ltd | 47,450 | Land and sea investment prospectus | Direct sourcing | B
Terri Janke and Company Pty Ltd | 52,750 | Business support panel | Open tender | B
WildFish Research | 43,700 | Bait fishing industry | Direct sourcing | B
Yumi Education Inc | 103,912 | Torres Strait language centre | Direct sourcing | B
Zakazukha Pty Ltd | 84,000 | Media support services | Open tender | B
Total | 3,557,148 |  |  |

Justification code:

A Skills currently unavailable within the TSRA.

B Need for specialised or professional skills.

C Need for independent research or assessment.

Note:

All consultants engaged under section 144T of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth) were engaged using the standard terms and conditions for the engagement of consultants by the TSRA as set out in the instrument referred to in section 144T(3). There were no significant differences between the terms and conditions on how consultants were engaged.

Index of Requirements

This Annual Report is prepared in accordance with section 144ZB of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth) and all other sections; section 46 of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (Cth); and the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Rule 2014 (Cth).

As a corporate Commonwealth entity, the TSRA is also required to prepare an annual report in accordance with the requirements of other legislation, namely the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 (Cth), the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) and the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth).

The table below details the reporting requirements and provides the location of the relevant information within this Annual Report.

Any enquiries relating to the compliance index can be directed to the TSRA by phone on (07) 4069 0700 or (toll free) 1800 079 093, or by email to info@tsra.gov.au.

Guiding legislation requirement | Location in report
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth) – section 144ZB
(2) Certain matters must be included in the Annual Report. The TSRA must include in each Annual Report details of:
Any directions given by the Minister under section 142E | 81
Any consultants engaged under section 144T | 149-152
(3) Report must include details of grants. If a grant was made by the TSRA during a financial year to an individual or body, then, in addition to the matters referred to in subsections (1) and (2), the annual report for that year must set out:
The name of the individual or body | 146-148
The amount and purpose of grant | 146-148
(4) Report must not disclose sacred matters:
The TSRA must not disclose in any annual report any matters known by the TSRA to be held sacred by Torres Strait islander or Aboriginal persons | 110
(5) Report must include certain details about consultants

If an annual report gives details of a consultant engaged under section 144T, the report must set out any significant differences between the terms and conditions on which that consultant was engaged and the standard terms and conditions for the engagement of consultants by the TSRA as set out in the instrument referred to in subsection 144T(3)

152

Guiding legislation requirement |  | Location in report
Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Rule 2014
Approval of the report by directors | Section17BB | Letter of transmittal
Parliamentary standards of presentation | Section 17BC | Throughout
Plain English and clear design | Section 17BD | Throughout
Enabling legislation | Paragraph 17BE(a) | 79
Legislated objects and functions | Paragraph 17BE(b)(i) | 79-81
Purpose | Paragraph 17BE(b)(ii) | 17
Responsible minister | Paragraph 17BE(c) | 81
Ministerial directions | Paragraph 17BE(d) and (f) | 81-82
Policy orders | Paragraphs 17BE(e) and (f) | None to report
Annual performance statements | Paragraph 17BE(g) | 17-24
Significant issues related to financial compliance | Paragraph 17BE(h) and (i) | None to report
Details and attendance of board members | Paragraph 17BE(j) | 87-97
Organisational structure | Paragraph 17BE(k) | 144
Location | Paragraph 17BE(l) | 72-78, 107
Governance | Paragraph 17BE(m) | 86-107
Related entity transactions | Paragraphs 17BE(n) and (o) | Financial statements
Significant activities and changes | Paragraph 17BE(p) | None to report
Judicial decisions or decisions of administrative tribunals | Paragraph 17BE(q) | 106
Reports by the Auditor-General, a parliamentary committee, the Commonwealth Ombudsman or the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner | Paragraph 17BE(r) | 106
Information from subsidiaries | Paragraph 17BE(s) | Not applicable
Indemnity and insurance | Paragraph 17BE(t) | 106-107
Compliance index | Paragraph 17BE(u) | 156-157
Other reporting requirements
Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 (Cth) | Section 311A | 145
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) | Section 516A | 103-104
Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) | Schedule 2, Part 4 | 8, 107-108

List of Tables

No. | Title | Page
2-1 | Appropriation Programme Expenditure, Budget Compared to Actual, 2017–2018 | 16
2-2 | External Funding Programme Expenditure, Budget Compared to Actual, 2017-2018 | 16
2-3 | Number and Value of Concessional Business Loans | 18
2-4 | Into Business Workshops Participation | 18
2-5 | Tropical Rock Lobster Catch Statistics | 19
2-6 | Finfish Fisheries Catch Statistics for Traditional Inhabitant Boat Licensees | 20
2-7 | Bêche-de-mer Catch Statistics for Traditional Inhabitant Boat Licensees | 20
2-8 | Percentage of Torres Strait Commercial Fishery Ownership, 2017-2018 | 20
2-9 | Active Artists and Cultural Practitioners | 21
2-10 | Key Native Title Representative Body Results | 21
2-11 | Number of Indigenous Land Use Agreements Finalised | 22
2-12 | Community-based Management Plans | 22
2-13 | High-level Engagements by TSRA Board Members | 23
2-14 | Prescribed Bodies Corporate Compliance Results | 23
2-15 | Economic Development Programme Expenditure, 2017-2018 | 26
2-16 | Fisheries Programme Expenditure, 2017-2018 | 34
2-17 | Fisheries Programme External Funding Expenditure, 2017-2018 | 34
2-18 | Culture, Art and Heritage Programme Expenditure, 2017-2018 | 39
2-19 | Culture, Art and Heritage Programme External Funding Expenditure, 2017-2018 | 39
2-20 | Native Title Programme Expenditure, 2017-2018 | 44
2-21 | Native Title Programme External Funding Expenditure, 2017-2018 | 44
2-22 | Native Title Office Performance Statistics | 47
2-23 | Environmental Management Programme Expenditure, 2017-2018 | 49
2-24 | Environmental Management Programme External Funding Expenditure, 2017-2018 | 49
2-25 | Governance and Leadership Programme Expenditure, 2017-2018 | 56
2-26 | Healthy Communities Programme Expenditure, 2017-2018 | 60
2-27 | Infrastructure Improvements under the Community Minor Infrastructure Fund | 65
2-28 | Safe Communities Programme Expenditure, 2017-2018 | 66
3-1 | Total Population of the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia | 75
3-2 | Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Population of the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia | 75
3-3 | Gender Balance of the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia | 75
3-4 | Average Age of Population of the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia | 76
3-5 | Employment in the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia | 76
3-6 | Education in the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia | 77
3-7 | Median Wealth in the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia ($/week) | 77
3-8 | Tenure of Private Dwellings in the Torres Strait including Bamaga and Seisia | 78
4-1 | Board Meeting Dates and Apologies | 97
4-2 | Board Meeting Attendance | 97
4-3 | Membership of the 2017-2018 Executive Committee | 99
4-4 | Executive Committee Meeting Dates and Apologies | 99
4-5 | Executive Committee Meeting Attendance | 99
4-6 | Audit Committee Members | 100
4-7 | Audit Committee Meeting Dates and Apologies | 100
4-8 | Attendance at Audit Committee Meetings | 100
4-9 | Finfish Quota Management Committee Members | 101
4-10 | Finfish Quota Management Committee Meeting Dates and Apologies | 101
4-11 | Attendance at Finfish Quota Management Committee Meetings | 101
4-12 | Ecologically Sustainable Development and Environmental Performance | 103
4-13 | Staff Profile at 30 June 2018 by Classification | 109
4-14 | Staff Profile at 30 June 2018 by Equal Employment Opportunity Group | 109
6-1 | Details of Grants (Total from Audited Financial Statements – Detail Unaudited) | 146
6-2 | Details of Consultants (Total from Audited Financial Statements – Detail Unaudited) | 149

List of Figures

No. | Title | Page
P-1 | Map of the Torres Strait Region | iv
2-1 | Torres Strait Regional Authority Integrated Planning Framework | 15
3-1 | The Torres Strait | 72
4-1 | Torres Strait Regional Authority Governance Framework | 86
4-2 | Torres Strait Regional Authority Risk Management Process | 104
6-1 | Torres Strait Regional Authority Structure | 144

List of Abbreviations

Abbreviation | Meaning
ABS | Australian Bureau of Statistics
AFMA | Australian Fisheries Management Authority
Ailan Kastom | island custom
AMSA | Australian Maritime Safety Authority
APS | Australian Public Service
CDP | Community Development Programme
CEO | Chief Executive Officer
CMU | Compliance Management Unit
COAG | Council of Australian Governments
DAWR | Australian Government Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
DOGIT | Deed of Grant in Trust
DTMR | Queensland Government Department of Transport and Main Roads
FQMC | Finfish Quota Management Committee
GTCC | Gab Titui Cultural Centre
IBA | Indigenous Business Australia
ICT | information and communications technology
ILUA | Indigenous Land Use Agreement
IPA | Indigenous Protected Area
ISD | Integrated Service Delivery
MIP | Major Infrastructure Programme
MIP 6 | Major Infrastructure Programme Stage 6
MOU | memorandum of understanding
NGO | non-government organisation
NPARC | Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council
NTRB | Native Title Representative Body
OBHI | One Blood Hidden Image Entertainment Group
ORIC | Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations
PBC | Prescribed Body Corporate
PSC | Programme Steering Committee
PZJA | Protected Zone Joint Authority
REIS | Regional Economic Investment Strategy
RMDL | Recreational Marine Driver Licence
RNTBC | Registered Native Title Body Corporate
RSDL | Regional Statistics Data Library
TAC | total allowable catch
TEK | traditional ecological knowledge
TIDS | Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme
TRAWQ | Tamwoy, Rose Hill, Aplin, Waiben and Quarantine
TRL | tropical rock lobster
TSC | Torres Shire Council
TSIRC | Torres Strait Island Regional Council
TSRA | Torres Strait Regional Authority
UNPFII17 | 17th session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues

Index

A

abbreviations, 161-162

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act 2005 (Cth), 79, 97, 98

advisory committees under, 100, 101

disclosure of sacred matters, 110

functions and powers under, 80-81

requirements under, 14, 79, 87

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission Act 1989 (Cth), 79

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Land Holding Act 2013 (Qld), xiii, 45

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service, 67, 68, 69

accidents and injuries, staff, 107

accountability, 106-107

accountable authority, 17, 87

advertising and market research, 145

affordable housing project, Horn Island, 62, 63

age, of Torres Strait region population, 76

Ailan Kastom, 33, 39, 40, 66, 72, 80

analysis of performance against key performance indicators, 18-24

annual performance statements, 17-24

anthropological research re Native Title claims, 45

appropriation programme expenditure, 16; see also financial statements

art centres, regional, support for, 40

Artist Forum, 21, 40

artists, support for, 8, 21, 27, 40-41; see also Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award

Arts and Creative Industries Business Growth Package, 8, 27

asset management, 110

Assistance with Tertiary Education Scheme, 9, 57

Associations Incorporation Act 1981 (Qld), 68

Assure Programs, 108

Attorney-General’s Department, 67, 68

Audit Committee, 56, 87, 100, 106

Auditor-General, 106; see also Australian National Audit Office, independent audit report

Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences, 19

Australian Bureau of Statistics, 72, 74, 80

MOU on statistics data library, viii

Australian Electoral Commission, 2, 87, 101

Australian Fisheries Management Authority, 35, 37

Australian Government funding for Major Infrastructure Programme, 23, 61

Australian Government Public Service Modernisation Fund, 110

Australian Information Privacy Commissioner, 108

Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies, 2, 48

Australian Institute of Company Directors, 3, 98

Australian Maritime Safety Authority, ix

Australian National Audit Office, independent audit report, 114-115

Australian Rural Leadership Foundation, partnership with, 5, 7, 57, 58

Australian Rural Leadership Program, 5, 7, 57

B

Badu Island, 40, 87, 102

Katter leases, 45

Badulgal people, Native Title claims, 45

baitfish fishing industry, feasibility study, 35

Bamaga, 87

baseline weed mapping, 53-54

bêche-de-mer fisheries, 36

catch statistics, 20

traditional ownership of, 20, 35

bilateral meetings (Torres Strait Treaty Cycle), 4

biodiversity planning and management, 103; see also Environmental Management Programme

biogas digesters, trial of, 52

biosecurity plan, development of, 50, 54

Board, 23

as accountable authority, 17, 87

functions, 87

meetings and attendance, 57, 97

members, 2, 87, 88-96

training and education, 3, 57, 98

Board Charter, 98

Board Induction Programme, 98

Board Member’s Code of Conduct, 98

Board Strategic Training Workshop, 57, 98

BoatSafe training, ix

Boigu Island, 48, 50, 87

Bullying and Harassment Policy, 108

Business Growth Package applications, 18, 27, 30

business loans, 18, 26, 30

business support services, 18, 26-27, 30-31

business training, 18, 27, 31

C

Capacity Building for Indigenous Rangers Strategy, x

Cape York Land Council, negotiations on Native Title claims, 45

capital works projects, 110

case studies

biosecurity and weed management, 54-55

Community Minor Infrastructure Fund, 64-65

community visit to Erub community, 59

First Australians’ wartime contributions, exhibitions on, 43

fisheries infrastructure and services audit, 38

legal services support for the Torres Strait, 69

Mabuyag Community Hall upgrade project, 32-33

National Native Title Conference, 48

catch data (fisheries), 19-20, 37

Chairperson’s message, 2-6

Charter of Representation, Performance and Accountability, 98

Chief Executive Officer’s message, 7-10

climate change adaptation and resilience, 2-3, 8, 52, 53, 103

Closing the Gap, 3, 73-74; see also Integrated Service Delivery

coastal protection measures, 61

Code of Conduct, Board, 98

Comcare, 107-108

Comcover, 106

Commonwealth Heritage List, 110

community capacity building grants, 67

Community Development Programme, 27

job seeker placements under, 27, 29, 32-33

community engagement activities, 4-5, 7, 56

community gardens, food production, 50, 53, 61, 63; see also sustainable horticulture activities

community halls, development of, 29, 32-33

Community Legal Education Officer, 67, 69

Community Minor Infrastructure Fund, 62, 64-65, 67; see also minor infrastructure project funding

community safety grants, 67

community safety partnerships, 66

Compliance Management Unit (rangers), x-xi

compliance report, 106

conflicts of interest, declaration of, 107

consultants, 149-152

Copyright Agency, 21, 40

corporate Commonwealth entity, TSRA as, 79, 81, 106

corporate governance and accountability, 86-110

Council of Australian Governments, 73

Closing the Gap strategy, 3, 73-74

Country Pride Construction, 32

cultural maintenance programme, 40; see also Culture, Art and Heritage Programme

cultural practitioners, support for, 21, 41; see also artists, support for

culture, art and heritage grants, 40

Culture, Art and Heritage Programme

case study, 43

expenditure, 16, 39

performance report, 40-42

programme outcomes, 39

projects and initiatives, 39

regional goal, 39

culture, Torres Strait region (overview), 72

D

Damaralag, Native Title rights, 73

dance strategy, 40

Dauan Island, 50, 87

Deed of Grant in Trust, xii, 28, 45, 46

Department of Agriculture and Water Resources, xi, 50

support for telecommunications upgrade, x, 102

Department of Communications and the Arts, support for traditional languages project, xi

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, 3

Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, x

Department of the Environment and Energy, delegation of powers to rangers, xi

desalination plant, 52

disclosure of sacred matters, 110

domestic and family violence prevention measures, funding for, 67, 68

dugong management plans, x, xi, 22, 51, 103

E

ecological knowledge project, 52

ecologically sustainable development measures, organisational, 103-104

Economic Development Programme, vii

case study, 32-33

expenditure, 16, 26

performance report, 26-31

programme outcomes, 26

programme specific performance indicators, 30-31

projects and initiatives, 26

regional goal, 26

education statistics, Torres Strait region, 77

Effective Governance (training provider), 98

elections, TSRA Board, 87

Employee Assistance Programme, 108

employment and training projects, 27, 28, 29; see also Community Development Programme

employment statistics, Torres Strait region, 30, 76

enabling functions, 102-110

enabling legislation, 79

energy conservation measures, organisational, 104

Ensuring a Strait Start, 66

enterprise agreement, 107

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth), xi, 103

environmental education project, 50

environmental health infrastructure investment, 23-24

environmental impacts, measures to minimise, 103-104

Environmental Management Committee (Torres Strait Treaty Cycle), 4

Environmental Management Programme, 61, 63, 103

case study, 54-55

expenditure, 16, 49

performance report, 50-53

programme outcomes, 49

programme specific performance indicators, 53

projects and initiatives, 49

regional goal, 49

environmental performance report, 103-104

Ephraim Bani Gallery, cultural exhibitions, 40

Ergon Energy, 103

Erub Erwer Meta Torres Strait Islander Corporation Art Centre, 59

Erub Freezers, 59

Erub Island, 50, 87, 102

community engagement visit, 59

regional art centre, 40, 59

Erubam Le Traditional Land and Sea Owners (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation, 59, 110

ethical standards, Board, 98

Events Coordinator position, funding of, 30

Evolution: Torres Strait Masks exhibition, ix, 41

Executive Committee, 57, 98-99

exhibitions, Gab Titui Cultural Centre, 5, 40, 41, 43

export of fisheries products, feasibility study, 35

external audit programme, 56, 105

external funding expenditure, 16; see also financial statements

external scrutiny, 106

F

female staff, 109

feral animal control measures, 22, 50; see also invasive species management

financial outlook, 9; see also financial statements

financial performance summary, 16; see also financial statements

financial statements, 116-141

independent audit report, 114-115

finfish fisheries

catch statistics, 20

leasing licences to non-Indigenous fishers, 36, 101

quota management, 36, 101

traditional ownership of, 20, 35, 36

Finfish Quota Management Committee, 36, 101

fish receiver licensing system, introduction of, 19, 37

fisheries, 101

capacity development, 35, 37

catch statistics, 19-20

infrastructure and services audit, 35, 38

sustainable development measures, 35-38

traditional ownership of, xii, 20, 35, 36

see also finfish fisheries; Fisheries Programme; tropical rock lobster fisheries

Fisheries Bilateral Meeting (Torres Strait Treaty Cycle), 4

Fisheries Business Growth Package, 27, 30

Fisheries Cadetship, 35

Fisheries Programme

case study, 38

expenditure, 16, 34

performance report, 35-37

programme outcomes, 34

programme specific performance indicators, 37

projects and initiatives, 34

regional goal, 34

Fisheries Research and Development Corporation, partnership with, 35

fisheries roadmap, development of, 35

Fisheries Status Reports, 19

Fly River pollution, impacts on Torres Strait, 51

Flying Arts Alliance, 21, 40

fraud control, 106

Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth), 109

freehold arrangements, xii, 78; see also land tenure arrangements

Frontier Software Pty Ltd, 107

functions, TSRA, 80

Future Acts notices, 21, 45, 47

G

Gab Titui Cultural Centre, ix, 5, 40, 41, 42, 43

Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award, 41

gender

of Torres Strait region population, 75

of TSRA staff, 9, 109

geography and logistics, xiii, 72

Goemulgaw (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation, 33

Governance and Leadership Programme

case study, 59

expenditure, 16, 56

performance report, 56-58

programme outcomes, 56

programme specific performance indicators, 57-58

projects and initiatives, 56

regional goal, 56

governance framework, 86-101

Government Investigations (Regulatory Compliance) training (rangers), xi

grants management system, new, 7-8

grants, 67, 146-148

Green Hill Fort, 110

Growing Our Own Tagai Transitions Maritime project, 28

H

Hammond Island, 53, 87

wharf upgrade, 24, 67

health education initiatives, 62-63

Health Issues Committee (Torres Strait Treaty Cycle), 4

health, of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, 78

Healthy Communities Programme, 50

case study, 64-65

expenditure, 16, 60

performance report, 61-63

programme outcomes, 60

programme specific performance indicators, 63

projects and initiatives, 60

regional goal, 60

highlights and achievements, vii-ix

history, of Torres Strait region, 73

HLB Mann Judd (accountancy firm), 100, 106

home loans, 28

Home Ownership Programme, 28

Horn Island, 50, 52, 53

affordable housing, 62, 63

see also Ngarupai

housing tenure, Torres Strait region, 78

human resources, 107-109

I

Iama Island, 87

ICT strategy, 102

income statistics, Torres Strait region, 77

indemnities and liability insurance, 106-107

index of requirements, 156-157

Indigenous Advancement Strategy, 35, 38, 73, 74

Indigenous Art Code, 21, 40

Indigenous Australians at war from the Boer War to the present (travelling exhibition), 6, 43

Indigenous Business Australia, funding agreement with, 28

Indigenous Economic Development Forum, 26

Indigenous employees, TSRA, 9, 109

Indigenous Governance Programme, 3, 98

Indigenous Land Use Agreements, 22, 45, 47, 48, 110

Indigenous Legal Assistance Programme, 68; see also legal services, funding support for

Indigenous Protected Areas, 51

Indigenous Ranger Programme, xi, 110; see also rangers, TSRA

induction programme, Board, 98

information and communications technology projects, 102; see also telecommunications infrastructure upgrade

Information Publication Scheme, 109

Ingeus Australia Pty Ltd, 108

insurance premium, cost, 107

integrated planning framework, 15

Integrated Service Delivery, xiv, 8, 14, 56, 67

Closing the Gap targets as framework for, 74

community booklets, 56, 74

intellectual property protection, artists and cultural practitioners, 41

internal audit programme, 56, 105, 106

international engagement, 3-4

Into Business Workshops, 18, 27, 31

invasive species management, 50, 103; see also biosecurity plan, development of; pest animal management plans

J

job seeker placements under Community Development Programme, 27, 29, 32-33

Joint Advisory Council (Torres Strait Treaty Cycle), 4

judicial decisions and reviews, 106

K

Kaiwalagal region dugong and turtle management plan, 22, 51

Katter leases, xiii, 45

Kaurareg people, Native Title claims, 21, 45

Kaurareg Traditional Owners, development of dugong and turtle management plan, 22, 51

key performance indicators, results against, 18-24; see also performance indicators, programme specific

Kubin, Moa Island, 29, 87, 102

L

Land and Sea Management Strategy for Torres Strait 2016-2036, 52

Land Court of Queensland, xiii

land tenure arrangements, xii, 28, 62, 78; see also Deed of Grant in Trust; freehold arrangements; Katter leases

Landcare Facilitator, 50, 63

languages charter, 5, 42

Languages Reference Group, dissolution of, 5

leadership capacity development, 5, 7, 57, 58, 98

learning and development, staff, 9, 107

legal services, funding support for, 67, 68, 69

Lei it On exhibition, 41

letter of transmittal, iii

liability insurance, 106-107

list of figures, 160

list of tables, 158-159

Local Level Alliance, 66

M

Mabo Day events, 40

Mabo decision, 73

Mabuyag Island, 87, 102

community hall upgrade project, 29, 32-33

Magani Lagaugal (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation, 48

Major Infrastructure ILUA, 45

Major Infrastructure Programme, xii, 23, 61

male staff, 109

Malu Ki’ai (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation, 48

Maori fisheries management model, lessons from, xii, 36

marine ecosystem monitoring, 51

marine infrastructure, xiv, 24, 67

maritime career pathways training courses, 27, 28

Masig Island, 52, 87

Masig Resilience Pilot, 52

media and communications support, 56

Mekem Garden Sustainable Horticulture Project, 61, 63

memorandum of agreement, xiv

memorandum of understanding, xiv

with Australian Bureau of Statistics, viii

with Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council, 9

with Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations, 45

with Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, 24, 67

mentors employment project, 29

Mer Island, 50, 52, 87, 102

transfer to the Meriam people, 73

Minister for Indigenous Affairs, 79, 81, 82

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, xiii

ministerial appointments, 82

ministerial briefings, 82

ministerial directions, 81

minor infrastructure project funding, 23, 61; see also Community Minor Infrastructure Fund

MIP Management Committee, xii

Mipa (Turtle Island), Native Title rights, 73

Moa Island, 29, 40, 50

mobile network coverage, as challenge, xiv; see also telecommunications infrastructure upgrade

Montessori Australia Foundation, 66

Mualgal people, Native Title claims, 45

Mura Kosker Sorority, funding support for, 67, 68

Muralag (Prince of Wales Island), 87

Native Title rights, 73

Murray Island (Mer), 73; see also Mer Island

Music and Dance Audit, 42

My Pathway, 28, 29, 32

N

National Indigenous Languages Convention, 42

National Museum of Australia, Torres Strait masks exhibition, ix, 41

National Native Title Conference, 2, 45, 48

National Native Title Tribunal, 22, 48

National Seafood Industry Leadership Programme, 35, 37

Native Title Act 1993 (Cth), xiii, 2, 48, 73, 79

Native Title claims, xiii, 21, 45, 47, 48, 73

Native Title compensation, 45

Native Title conference, 2, 45, 48

Native Title Office, 45, 48, 73

performance statistics, 47

Native Title Programme

case study, 48

expenditure, 16, 44

performance report, 45-47

programme outcomes, 44

programme specific performance indicators, 46

projects and initiatives, 44

regional goal, 44

Native Title Representative Body, 21, 45

TSRA appointment as, 79

Ngarupai, 87

Native Title rights, 73

see also Horn Island

non-compliance matters, prescribed bodies corporate, 46

non-government organisations, social services delivery, 67

non-Indigenous fishers, lease of licences to, 36, 101

North Eastern people of Cape York, Native Title sea claim, 45

Northern Australia Quarantine Strategy, 55

Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council, xiv, 3, 14, 30, 61, 64, 65

MOU with, 9

notifiable incidents, 107

O

Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations, 23, 45

One Blood Hidden Image Entertainment Group, 29, 33

operations, report on, 72-82

opportunities and challenges, x-xiv

organisational structure, 144

outcome statement, 17

outlook, 9-10

P

Papua New Guinea, participation in Torres Strait Treaty Cycle Meetings, 4

Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works, approval of residential dwelling, 110

payroll services, 107

pecuniary interests, declaration of, 107

people with disability, 109

Performance Development Programme, 107

performance indicators, programme specific, 30-31, 37, 46, 53, 57-58, 63, 68; see also key performance indicators, results against

performance reports, programme, 26-69

pest animal management plans, 22, 50; see also invasive species management

planning framework, 15

population statistics, Torres Strait region, 74-78

Port Kennedy, 87

Port Kennedy Association, funding support for, 67, 68

Portfolio Budget Statements 2017-2018, 14, 18

Poruma Island, 61, 87

powers, TSRA, 81

prawn fishery, 19, 35

Prescribed Bodies Corporate, 2, 45, 48

compliance results, 23, 46

Prime Minister and Cabinet Portfolio, 18, 81

Prince of Wales Safe Landing Facility project, 24, 61

Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), 108

Procedural Framework for Researchers in the Torres Strait, 35

programme expenditure, 16, 26, 34, 39, 44, 49, 56, 60, 66; see also financial statements

programme outcomes

Culture, Art and Heritage Programme, 39

Economic Development Programme, 26

Environmental Management Programme, 49

Fisheries Programme, 34

Governance and Leadership Programme, 56

Healthy Communities Programme, 60

Native Title Programme, 44

Safe Communities Programme, 66

programme performance reports, 26-69

Programme Steering Committee, 87, 99-100

property management, 109-110

Protected Zone Joint Authority, xiii-xiv, 19, 34, 35, 36

fishery industry representation initiatives, 36, 37

Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (Cth), 79, 87, 98, 100, 106, 107

Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Rule 2014 (Cth), 107

public programmes, Gab Titui Cultural Centre, 41

Public Service Modernisation Fund, 110

Puliima National Indigenous Language and Technology Forum, 42

Pulu Islet Indigenous Protected Area, 51

purpose, entity, 17

Q

Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Languages Forum, 42

Queensland Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, 48

Queensland Department of Local Government, Racing and Multicultural Affairs, 67

Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Mines, xiii

Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, ix, 24

MOU with, 29, 67

Queensland Government, 4, 61

environmental management funding, 50, 61

infrastructure funding, 23, 61

Native Title management, 45, 48

R

rangers, TSRA, 50, 51, 54, 110

capacity development, x-xi, 50

legislative compliance training, xi

Recreational Marine Driver Licence, ix

regional art centres, support for, 40

Regional Economic Investment Strategy, 8, 27

regional governance arrangements, 4

regional issues and challenges, x-xiv, 72

Regional Language Centre, xi-xii, 5, 42

Regional Statistics Data Library, viii

Registered Native Title Bodies Corporate, xii, 48

Rehabilitation Management System, 108

Remote Indigenous Broadcasting Service, 59

renewable energy initiatives, 52, 53, 103

responsible minister, 81; see also Minister for Indigenous Affairs

risk management, 104-106

Rule Book Workshops (PBCs), 45

S

Safe Communities Programme, 50

case study, 69

expenditure, 16, 66

performance report, 66-68

programme outcomes, 66

programme specific performance indicators, 68

projects and initiatives, 66

regional goal, 66

safety awareness education, 66

Saibai Island, 50, 87

Saibai seawall project, 61

salary ranges, staff, 107

scholarships, tertiary, 9, 57

school attendance initiatives, 66

sea level rises, protection from, 61

seawalls, construction of, 61

Seawalls Evaluation Report, 61

Seisia, 87

service delivery; see Integrated Service Delivery

75th Anniversary of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion exhibition, 40, 43

shipping, potential impact on marine ecosystem, 51

Smarty Grants (grants management system), 7-8

social housing infrastructure, ILUA, 48

solar arrays, installation of, 52, 104

Solomon Islands, delegation from, 3

sport and recreation activities, 62, 63

St Pauls, Moa Island, 29, 87

staff classifications, 109

staffing profile, 108-109

Statement of Expectations, 82

Statement of Intent, 82

strategic workshops, Board, 57, 98

Supply Nation, artist registration with, 21, 29

Supply Nation Connect 2018, vii-viii, 26

Supreme Court of Queensland, xiii, 45

sustainable horticulture activities, 50, 61, 63, 103; see also community gardens, food production

Sustainable Water and Wastewater Management Project, 61

T

TAFE North Queensland, 28

Tagai State College, xi, 28, 42, 50, 77, 103

Tarilag (Packe Island), Native Title rights, 73

telecommunications infrastructure upgrade, x, xiv, 24, 102

Telstra, telecommunications upgrade, x, xiv, 24, 102

tertiary scholarships, 57; see also Assistance with Tertiary Education Scheme

Thursday Island, xi, 29, 50, 52

TSRA properties on, 110

Thursday Island Garden Fair, 50

Thursday Island Justice Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Corporation, 69

Torres News, 50

Torres Shire Council, xiv, 14, 50, 54, 64, 65

partnership on climate resilience plan, 2-3

partnership on biosecurity activities, 54-55

partnership on economic development activities, 29, 30

partnership on infrastructure projects, 24, 61, 63, 64

Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Biosecurity Working Group, 50

Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Plan 2009-2029, 14, 57, 74, 99

Torres Strait Artist Forum, 21, 40

Torres Strait Child and Family Committee, 66

Torres Strait Climate and Resilience Working Group, 3; see also Torres Strait Regional Coordination Group, establishment of

Torres Strait Development Plan 2014-2018, 10, 14, 57, 74, 79, 99, 107

Torres Strait Digital Expansion Project, x, 24; see also telecommunications infrastructure upgrade

Torres Strait Digital Foundation Project, completion of, 24; see also Torres Strait Digital Expansion Project

Torres Strait freehold arrangements, xii, 78; see also land tenure arrangements

Torres Strait Island Regional Council, xiv, 2, 14, 33, 59

cooperation on Katter leases, 45

partnership on biosecurity activities, 54-55

partnership on climate resilience plan, 2-3

partnership on economic development activities, 29, 30, 32

partnership on infrastructure projects, 24, 61, 64, 67

Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people employment opportunities, 30; see also Community Development Programme

Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people owned businesses, 18, 30-31

Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people, TSRA employees, 9, 109

Torres Strait Islanders Media Association, 29, 57

Torres Strait Islanders Regional Education Council, 66

Torres Strait Language Symposium, 5

Torres Strait languages project, xi-xii

Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion, 75th anniversary, 5-6, 40, 43

Torres Strait Maritime Pathways Project, 27

Torres Strait Maritime Safety Programme, 66

Torres Strait Regional Adaptation and Resilience Plan 2016-2021, xiv, 3, 52

Torres Strait Regional Assembly, implementation plan, 4

Torres Strait Regional Authority, establishment of, 79

Torres Strait Regional Biosecurity Action Plans, 54

Torres Strait Regional Biosecurity Plan 2018-2023, 50, 54

Torres Strait Regional Coordination Group, establishment of, xiv, 3, 8, 52

Torres Strait Regional Sea Claim (Part B), 21, 45

Torres Strait Traditional Language Advisory Committee, xi, 5, 42

Torres Strait Traditional Languages Charter, 5, 42

Torres Strait Traditional Languages Plan 2016-2019, xi-xii, 5, 42

Torres Strait Treaty Cycle Meetings, 4

Torres Strait Women’s Leadership Program, 5, 57

Torres Strait Young Leaders Program, 5, 57, 58

Torres Strait Youth and Recreational Sporting Association, 62

Tourism Industries Business Growth Package, 27

tourism industry, 27, 30

Tourism Officer positions, funding for, 30

Tourism Tropical North Queensland, 30

traditional ecological knowledge project, 52; see also traditional knowledge, transfer of

Traditional Inhabitant Boat sector, 19-20, 36

Traditional Inhabitants Meeting (Torres Strait Treaty Cycle), 4

Traditional Inhabitants, ownership of region’s fisheries, xii, xiii-xiv, 35, 36

traditional knowledge, transfer of, 50, 52, 72; see also Ailan Kastom; Culture, Art and Heritage Programme

Traditional Language Advisory Committee, establishment of, 5

traditional languages, vi, xii

revitalisation of, xi-xii, 5, 42

training and development, TSRA staff, 9, 107

Training Rural Australians in Leadership programme, 5, 57, 58

Transferrable Vessel Holder licences, purchase of, xiii, 9

transmittal letter, iii

transport and freight costs, as challenge to programme delivery, xiii

Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme, 24, 67

TRAWQ, 56, 87

tropical rock lobster fisheries, 36

catch statistics, 19

management plan, xiii-xiv

purchase of licences, xiii, 9, 35

traditional ownership of, 20

TSRA Corporate Plan 2017-2018, 18

TSRA Dance Strategy, 40

TSRA Enterprise Agreement 2017, 107

TSRA Regional Governance Committee, establishment and membership of, 4

turtle management plans, x, xi, 22, 51, 103

2016 Defence White Paper, 2

U

Ugar Island, 61, 87, 102

Ugul Malu Kawal Indigenous Protected Area, 51

UMI Arts, 21, 40

United Nations Articles on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, 74

United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, 3

V

value-add brand of Torres Strait seafood, potential for, 35

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, ix, 41

vision, vi

W

Warraber Island, 50, 87

Warraberalgal Porumalgal Indigenous Protected Area, 51

Warral and Ului Native Title claim, 21

Warul Kawa Indigenous Protected Area; see Ugul Malu Kawal Indigenous Protected Area

waste management, xiv, 52, 62

wastewater management, 61

water management, 61

water security, 2, 52, 64

website, redesign of Economic Development Programme area, 30

weed management, 50, 54-55

Wigness v Kingham, President of the Land Court [2018] QSC 20, xiii

women’s leadership programmes, 5, 7, 57

work health and safety, 8, 107-108

Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth), 8, 107

Work Health and Safety Management System, 107

workforce profile, 108-109

Working on Country plans, 22, 50

Workplace Consultative Committee, 108

workplace diversity, 108

Workplace Health and Safety Committee, 8

Y

Yeta (Port Lihou Island), Native Title rights, 73

youth leadership programme, 5, 57, 58

Yumi Education Inc, 66

Z

Zakazukha Marketing Communications, 56

Zuna (Entrance Island), Native Title rights, 73