Payments to First Nations People working with us
We respect and value First Nations knowledge and cultures and are committed to strong partnerships with First Nations organisations and communities. We collaborate with First Nations peoples across Queensland on projects and activities, guided by a shared purpose—looking after Country—and a vision for better, shared governance and management of Country. Together, we prioritise Country and its people in all our decisions to build a strong, shared future.
The First Nations Payment Guide (the Guide) is designed to ensure fair and consistent payment to First Nations people who share their expertise and cultural knowledge and participate in activities with the department. It aligns with the principles and values of the Gurra Gurra Framework 2020–2026, reinforcing our commitment to respectful relationships and partnerships.
Acknowledging the value and importance of these partnerships and the collective expertise they bring, the department has reviewed and strengthened the Guide, so that First Nations people are appropriately paid for the provision of expertise and services (note: this process does not apply to procurement activities, which will continue to fall under the Queensland Government Procurement Policy).
Based on the range of services required, the department may pay a set rate depending on the duration of the service and/or may reimburse outlays such as travel and/or accommodation costs. This will be discussed and agreed prior to commencement of the service or activity.
Typical services/activities/products include (but are not limited to):
- provision of:
- cultural and specialist services and advice, and provision of cultural knowledge and scientific expertise and advice, on behalf of Country and people
- provision of cultural expertise, information and advice to assist departmental compliance obligations under the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage Act 2003
- provision of cultural expertise, information and advice which is targeted and requested to inform assessment and decision making under relevant legislation administered by the department and considering the Human Rights Act 2019
- provision of advice on departmental strategies, plans, or projects where specifically requested (relating to knowledge about a particular community, language group, or area).
- delivery of speeches or presentations relating to specialised knowledge of a specific community, language group, or Country
- cultural ceremonies/performances
- On-Country familiarisation, survey and investigation trips at the department’s invitation.
Where significant or specialised services are required, the department may negotiate an appropriate rate.
The First Nations payment guide is available.
For more information please speak with your departmental contact.
Further information is also available from the department’s Partnerships Branch via email: partnerships@detsi.qld.gov.au.