Effective Indigenous Governance Workshop - Cairns (April 2027)

The Effective Indigenous Governance Workshop is a dynamic, two-day professional development experience designed to strengthen governance capability in ways that are culturally grounded, practical, and community-led. Delivered by the Australian Indigenous Governance Institute (AIGI), the workshop explores Indigenous (Two-way) governance—bringing together cultural knowledge systems and contemporary governance practices to support effective decision-making, accountability, and self-determination. Participants will engage with real-world examples, proven governance frameworks, and interactive activities that recognise and build on the strengths and expertise within the room. 

Across the program, participants will deepen their understanding of board roles and responsibilities, develop leadership capability, and build practical skills in managing conflict and supporting peacemaking within organisations and communities. With a strong focus on culturally appropriate approaches and collective learning, the workshop empowers participants to apply their knowledge with confidence—strengthening relationships, governance practices, and long-term outcomes for their communities. 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to: 

• Understand and apply key principles of Indigenous (Two-way) governance, balancing cultural and organisational accountabilities.  

• Clarify roles, responsibilities, and legal duties of board members within Indigenous organisations.  

• Strengthen culturally informed leadership capabilities to support effective and inclusive governance.  

• Analyse governance structures, decision-making, and accountability systems in Indigenous contexts.  

• Apply practical approaches to managing conflict, disputes, and complaints using culturally grounded methods.  

• Build skills to restore trust, support healing, and strengthen relationships within organisations and communities.  

Event Details

Session One: Wednesday, 21st April 2027
Session Two: Thursday, 22nd April 2027

Time: 9:00am - 4:30pm AEST Queensland Time (both days)

Location: To be announced, Cairns QLD 4870

Please note: this is a 2-day face-to-face workshop, and are required to attend both days.

Travel support is available* – click here to apply. If you are unable to download the application form please email workforce@healingfoundation.org.au to receive a copy. *Target Group Services Only

Who should attend

This event is designed for Board Members, leaders, and staff within the community who want to strengthen and refresh their foundational understanding of Indigenous governance. It also welcomes individuals who are beginning their learning journey in this area and are keen to build their knowledge and capability. 

About the facilitators

Australian Indigenous Governance Institute

The Australian Indigenous Governance Institute is an Indigenous-led centre of excellence in strengthening governance capability across Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations, communities, and nations. Through a culturally grounded, strengths-based approach, AIGI supports self-determined governance that reflects local values, delivering meaningful, community-led outcomes. Its impact is demonstrated through partnerships, supporting leadership development, and youth engagement in diverse community contexts. AIGI’s notable achievements include delivering training nationally, co-hosting the Indigenous Governance Awards, and developing the widely used Indigenous Governance Toolkit. Its services span tailored workshops, reviews, and strategic advisory, helping communities design effective governance systems, strengthen leadership, and achieve sustainable impact.