Abhi

Hedemark

At the present moment, there is no existing formal relationship between the ministry and the

15% of maori living in australia. Links should be formed to strengthened this relationship, not out

of duty or obligation but as a strategic investment in the interest of Maori development. That

relationship could include things such as;

The forming of community liaison positions within consulate offices to acquire information on

business opportunities, facilitate community cohesion, and help community programs apply for

australian sources of funding.

Convening of an Australian Maori summit, bringing together Maori leaders from all over

Australia to discuss matters of Maori concern.

Raising awareness of online sources of Maori news, information, and knowledge to increase

Maori connection and awareness of their own values and connection to Maori culture.

The sponsorship of Maori cultural events and ceremonies, to increase Maori community

cohesion and Wairua(spirituality) in australia.

A solid evidence base should always be the most important thing in policy development and

there is much that could be done to improve the information we have around Maori people living

in australia, to ensure this is acquired more serious studies on the conditions and needs of the

Maori people should be invested in by the ministry.

Reference:

Hammer, p. (2017). [online] Available at:

http://maraemelbourne.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/tpk-maorinaustralia2007-en1.pdf [Accessed 23
May 2017].