MacUnity

MacUnity aims to bridge the gap between Aboriginal and mainstream service provision to work collaboratively to improve outcomes for the Aboriginal community. Sector Connect co-facilitates the network with Aboriginal representatives and the group operates using Aboriginal principles and practices.

The role of the working group is:

• To improve connections, communication and relationships between workers and agencies for the purpose of progressing the outcomes for the Aboriginal community in this region;
• To build on best practices that currently exist across Macarthur and Wingecarribee;
• To enhance collaborative work practices;
• To identify and improve mainstream services to more effectively address and engage in the needs of the Aboriginal community;
• To explore and further understand how the Aboriginal community lives across the region;
• To undertake concrete, achievable projects that produce real outcomes;
• To hold a neutral position across all Aboriginal groups, focusing on the needs of the community rather than the differences.

Membership is open to all workers (both Aboriginal and mainstream) and Aboriginal community members who have a genuine commitment and willingness to work collaboratively. MacUnity is not an interagency but a working group where we aim to achieve real results and genuine outcomes for the Aboriginal Community.

Achievements:

• Developing relationships across Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and mainstream service providers enabling a coordinated, collaborative approach to Aboriginal service provision
• Mapped all networks and interagencies across the region to see where the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander networks sat to determine MacUnity's unique role, to bridge the gap between mainstream and Aboriginal / Torres Strait Islander service provision
• Drew together recent research and local consultations to identify the issues and gaps for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
• Mapped Aboriginal / Torres Strait Islander organisations across the region to identify gaps in service provision
• Identified issues for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth across Macarthur
• Provided 2 presentations to the Macarthur Youth Service Network on how to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth which has been reported to have changed mainstream approach to service provision
• Provided the avenue for effective partnerships to develop e.g. Koori Flow
• Mutual beneficial connections made across Aboriginal / Torres Strait Islander and mainstream service provision
• Maintained commitment to embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander principles through co-facilitation and being willing to enter real relationships
• Working collaboratively to support other networks and initiatives that support the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community e.g. Aboriginal Jobs Compact
• Identified barriers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and mainstream organisations working effectively together e.g. cultural awareness. Supporting local initiatives to develop (e.g. Our Aboriginal Experience) to address these needs
• Developing creative initiatives to link pre vocational job skills with employment outcomes for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community

MacUnity meets bi- monthly at: Eagle Vale Leisure Centre (Library Meeting Room),
Cnr Feldspar Rd & Emerald Drive, Eagle Vale, 10am - 1pm. Meeting dates for 2011: 13 December 2011

Meeting Dates 2012:

Venue: Muru Nanga Mai Aboriginal Centre, 161 Wickfield Circuit, Ambarvale

Times: 10am - 1pm

21 February
3 April (due to school holidays)
19 June
21 August
16 October
4 December

Click here for related documents, agendas and minutes

Click here for the 2010 Interagencies & Networks dates

MacUnity Promotional Flyer

Jane McIvor on 4648 5933 or email director@sectorconnect.org.au