Strategic Review
To ensure that we (First Nations Legal & Research Services) continue to meet the evolving needs of Victorian Traditional Owners, in late 2022 we commissioned a review to broadly consider our role, operations, and structure, within the changing native title environment of Victoria.
Completed in 2023, the Review confirms the important role we play assisting Victorian Traditional Owner groups achieve native title outcomes. The rights recognition landscape in Victoria has changed significantly since FNLRS came into being 20 years ago and it is important we adapt our approach and shape our services in response to the changed circumstances. In being flexible and strategic, we can continue to provide the best possible services to Victorian Traditional Owners for another 20 years.
The FNLRS Board has accepted the review recommendations in full and we have already commenced their implementation, including by changing our processes around the provision of assistance to native title groups and the creation of a panel of suitably qualified and experienced native title practitioners to work with Victorian Traditional Owner groups.
The FNLRS Board thanks the reviewers, Dan Kelly, Dr Eddie Cubillo and Jaynaya Dwyer, for their persistence, insight and clarity. We also thank everyone who participated for their honesty and support. It is important to continually review and adapt and accordingly we look forward to ongoing dialogue as we navigate the complexities of native title and the opportunities of the emerging Treaty process.
Read an Overview of the Review here
