How We Work

First Nations Peoples know what we need

Numerous program evaluations and reviews show us that programs seeking to improve outcomes for First Nations Peoples don't work unless they are actively involved in decision making. Research such as the Harvard Project on American Indian Economic Development shows us that there are significantly better results if Indigenous people are involved every step of the way: that is in the thinking, developing, delivery and review stages of policy development and program design.

Further, the importance of self determination and involvement in decision making is recognised by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

The bottom line is that the involvement of First Nation Peoples in decision making is most likely to lead to real change.

Our Approach

We bring an experienced and practical approach to the development of new initiatives and policies. Our emphasis is on the development of evidence based policy informed by an understanding of what works on the ground.

• We are expert at designing and ensuring genuine consultation
• We establish cross cultural teams and have developed a Two Ways Learning and Doing practice which drives our consultation methodology.
• We don't do 'tick and flick' exercises. We create culturally safe spaces which enable people to say what they think. This is especially important when consulting with Aboriginal people - cultural safety and cultural competency are a deal breaker.

Our deep understanding of the lived experience of Aboriginal people combined with our experience in government policy development and program design means our consultation and advising services are comprehensive and wholistic.

We work expertly across both worlds and are a bridge between them.