Writing with Sensitivity and Respect: ICIP (Indigenous Cultural Intellectual Property) Protocols and Language

This workshop will help writers to establish whether ICIP Protocols apply to their writing project, and how to write with sensitivity and respect to ICIP when including Indigenous People, or fictional Indigenous characters, Indigenous Culture or history. It includes understanding the guidelines, seeking permissions, acknowledgements, fees, benefits and more. This workshop also highlights sensitivity and the importance of language in other areas of writing including health, gender related topics and more.

Tess Merlin is an ex-police officer and author. Her 2025 release, Red Dirt Blue Lights was a finalist in the 2025 Queensland Literary Awards. She worked closely with Indigenous Elder Uncle Eric Law AM to ensure the integrity of this book. She is a qualified Trainer & Assessor and an experienced language teacher and workshop facilitator.