Roman Catholic Trust Corporation of the Diocese of Townsville Announces Future Change to North West Queensland Indigenous Catholic Social Services Constitution
The Roman Catholic Trust Corporation of the Diocese of Townsville (RCTCDT) has announced that significant changes to the constitution of the North West Queensland Indigenous Catholic Social Services (NWQICSS) are imminent.
The upcoming change will see the Bishop of Townsville have no further involvement in NWQICSS operations, with the organisation to operate independently of the Mount Isa Parish, the Diocese, Fr Michael Lowcock, Board Member and RCTCDT staff member Craig Brereton.
The transition from the Church will see the organisation change its name, to the North West Queensland Indigenous Community Social Services Limited.
Bishop Timothy Harris said that although changes to the constitution will see the Catholic Church’s involvement in the organisation cease, that the transition is for the betterment of the organisation in accordance with recent changes to government regulations.
“The decision for RCTCDT to resign from the NWQICSS is required to ensure that the organisation continues to access critical funding aligned to the National Agreement on Closing the Gap and be recognised as an Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisation (ACCO).”
“Through our separation, the NWQICSS will support self-determination for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and ensure the ability to continue to lobby for funding to offer opportunities for the Mount Isa and Doomdgee communities. Bishop Harris said.
The upcoming change will have no immediate impact on the operation of the North West Queensland Indigenous Community Social Services, with work providing a wide range of services to support First Nations people continuing in the Mount Isa and Doomadgee communities.
“This upcoming change reflects NWQICSS's dedication to serving the community with a focus on self-determination and independence. RCTCDT can be proud of our partnership, especially those of Fr Mick Lowcock who has created and guided the organisation. I have confidence in the new direction of the constitution.” Bishop Harris said.
The transition to the new constitution is expected to take place in 2025. The North West Queensland Indigenous Community Social Services will be registered with ASIC and ACNC, including notification of the company's name change. The new constitution will also be presented to the ATO, with a request to confirm the company's continuing Public Benevolent Institution (PBI) status.