Cultural Agility Program: Building on the Strengths of Our Stories

TimberQueensland
Jul 23
2 min read

Timber Queensland is pleased to announce the Cultural Agility Program: Building on the Strengths of Our Stories program, a vital initiative designed to deepen understanding of Indigenous perspectives across Australia’s forest and timber industries.

Held in partnership with respected First Nations leaders and cultural educators through Regional Economic Solutions, the two-day program offers a unique opportunity for industry professionals to embrace an exploration of Australia’s shared history, current realities and pathways toward reconciliation and meaningful engagement.

“This is about building respectful relationships and recognising the value of Indigenous knowledge in shaping a shared sustainable future for our industry,” said Timber Queensland CEO Mick Stephens.

“Understanding cultural context isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s an essential first step to understanding the legacy of past historical experience and the ongoing impact on indigenous people and the importance of trust,” he said.

The program creates a safe yet robust environment where participants are encouraged to move beyond rhetoric toward genuine understanding and collaboration.

“This shared understanding can enhance workplace inclusion, strengthen community partnerships, and support land stewardship aligned with both traditional and contemporary practices,” said Mick Stephens.

Participants will take part in traditional yarning circles and powerful storytelling to discover Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being and doing.

Mr Stephens said the Albanese Government’s recently released National Timber Fibre Strategy acknowledges that our industry has much to learn from First Nations Peoples, particularly in forest management and Caring for Country.

“There is a sector-wide commitment to increasing understanding and engagement; respectful and appropriate engagement is the starting point.

“Timber businesses that embrace cultural agility are better equipped to work collaboratively with Traditional Owners, unlock new opportunities in land management, and contribute meaningfully to shared outcomes.”

The program will be held in Brisbane on 9-10 September 2025, more information is available at www.timberqueensland.com.au/events