In a surprising turn of events, the head of Queensland’s Indigenous truth-telling and healing commission, Joshua Creamer, has reversed his decision to pause the inquiry. This comes despite the newly elected Crisafulli government’s vow to abolish the commission and repeal the legislation behind it before the end of the year.
Creamer had initially agreed to halt all public hearings last month after Premier David Crisafulli’s announcement, labeling the move “hugely disrespectful.” However, after receiving no further information from the government despite multiple requests for meetings, Creamer has decided to continue the inquiry’s work to ensure it meets its obligations as an independent body under the Path to Treaty Act.
A New Work Plan Amidst Uncertainty
On Friday, the inquiry laid out a new work plan to Minister Fiona Simpson. While no new public hearings are scheduled, online submissions have been reopened, and the inquiry has reached out to various organizations, including government agencies and historical societies, to provide any additional submissions or materials before the Act is repealed.
Creamer emphasized that all submissions and materials provided to the inquiry will be preserved by the state archives, ensuring that the valuable information gathered thus far will not be lost. The inquiry will also continue to promote public awareness of Queensland’s colonial history, despite the uncertain future of the commission itself.
Trauma-Aware Support for Participants
One of the reasons cited for not restarting public hearings is the inquiry’s inability to provide long-term trauma-aware support for participants. The commission recognizes the emotional toll that sharing stories of colonialism’s impact can have on individuals and communities, and without the assurance of ongoing support, they have chosen to prioritize the well-being of those who have already come forward.
A Shift in Political Stance
The decision to abolish the truth-telling inquiry marks a significant shift in Premier Crisafulli’s stance on Indigenous rights. As opposition leader, he voted to establish the inquiry and create a process for negotiating treaties, expressing hope that the law would be “a catalyst for materially improving the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in this state.” All 34 LNP MPs supported the bill at the time.
However, in the days following the failed voice referendum, Crisafulli changed his position, declaring the inquiry “divisive” and promising to focus on improving Indigenous home ownership rates instead. This sudden shift has left many questioning the government’s commitment to reconciliation and healing.
Historic First Hearings and Testimonies
The truth-telling and healing inquiry held its historic first hearings in September, which included testimony from government department directors general, the police commissioner, and seven victims of colonialism. These powerful testimonies shed light on issues such as wage theft, abuse, and the state protection system, giving voice to those who have long been silenced.
The decision to end an independent inquiry by a new government is unprecedented.
– Joshua Creamer, Chair of Queensland’s Indigenous Truth-Telling and Healing Commission
As the inquiry continues its work in the face of political opposition, it remains to be seen how the Crisafulli government will proceed with its plan to repeal the Pathway to Treaty Act. The commission’s determination to preserve the stories and experiences shared thus far underscores the importance of truth-telling in the journey towards reconciliation and healing for Indigenous Australians.
The future of Queensland’s Indigenous truth-telling and healing commission may be uncertain, but the courage and resilience of those who have come forward to share their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition. As the nation grapples with its colonial past and the path forward, the work of commissions like this one will continue to play a vital role in shaping a more equitable and inclusive future for all Australians.
