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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1999 Week 4 Hansard (22 April) . . Page.. 1228 ..


attend training of police to provide information and awareness on the culture, heritage, behaviour and tradition of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community;

assist in the development of strategies to enhance Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander and police relations;

actively explain the functions and aims of the Police Service to the

community (including - attend Indigenous groups, other community groups and schools to provide information and awareness on the operation,

expectations and obligations of the Australian Federal Police);

accompany police with 'at risk' persons (for example - those considered

likely to self-injure or suffering chronic medical or psychological

condition) to assist the detainee, not to perform the escort in place of

police;

provide advice to operational police on cultural aspects following domestic

violence incidents involving indigenous people;

assist relatives concerning procedures for visiting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners; and

attend activities and events involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants and spectators.

(3) The current occupant is on a five year Fixed Term Appointment (FTA).

(4) There is no specific requirement for liaison with Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health Service, other than as set out in the role description, that is 'establish and maintain close personal rapport with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and groups within the community'.

Winnunga Nimmityjah is one of a number of aboriginal organisations which form an important part of the ACLO's network. Regular visits are made to it and other groups, as well as the ACLO being an available contact point for these organisations when dealing with the AFP.

(5) In 1997 a temporary AFP staff member was appointed to the position of ACLO for a period of 12 months to research and evaluate the need for such a position. Following this period, it was determined (in consultation with the local Aboriginal Community) that the ACLO position would become permanent. This position has been occupied since 8 September 1998. While to date there has been no perceptible impact on indigenous arrest rates, it is anticipated following an initial settling in period, that the role of ACLO will meet its underlying aim of enhancing relationships and increasing awareness of Aboriginal issues.


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