Indigenous Capacity Building Program: Strengthening Councils and Communities 

The Indigenous Capacity Building (ICB) program has been a game-changer for councils, providing critical upskilling opportunities for staff while reducing overhead costs. Funded by the State Government and delivered by the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ), the ICB program has successfully supported workforce development across multiple councils, equipping staff with essential skills tailored to their community needs. 

The process is straightforward—councils identify their training priorities, or LGAQ can work with them to determine the most effective upskilling pathways. This approach allows councils to exercise self-determination while also having access to expert guidance when needed. 

When multiple councils requested training in animal management and regulation, LGAQ facilitated the delivery of a nationally recognised Certificate IV program. This training has been rolled out over several months, starting in Cherbourg and extending most recently to Bamaga in the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC). 

Trainer, Dr Carolyn Cluderay from UQ Skills highlighted the significance of this program, stating, "What we’re doing is training the officers so they can actually provide these treatments in their communities themselves. Part of that is record keeping, database management, and setting targets to better manage their animals. This means healthier pets, reduced zoonotic diseases, and overall improved community health." 

This qualification is particularly valuable for remote communities, where year-round access to veterinary services is often limited. By equipping local council staff with skills in microchipping, vaccinating and managing domestic and wild animal populations, the program directly contributes to improved community health outcomes. 

LGAQ had the privilege of witnessing this training firsthand. While classroom sessions were insightful, the real highlight came when students took their learning into the field. Equipped with their new skills, they set off in 4WDs to visit local towns where they engaged with residents, explained their work and carried out microchipping for pets. Thanks to the support of NPARC, students had multiple home visits lined up, allowing them to put their training into action. 

Sam Uie, a participant in the program, emphasised its impact, "The guys on the ground are already doing this work, but this training supports them in gaining the certification they need. Most of what we’re learning comes from local knowledge and experience, making it highly relevant to our communities." 

These students will now take their skills back to their home communities, ensuring year-round support where it’s needed most. In Bamaga, for instance, veterinary visits occur only twice a year, meaning wait times for essential services like microchipping and vaccinations can become a significant issue. Having trained local staff means communities can address these needs more effectively and sustainably. 

The value of delivering this training on Country cannot be overstated. Learning in an environment that reflects their own communities makes the skills far more applicable than if students were trained in an urban setting like Brisbane. As Sam pointed out, "It’s one thing to microchip a few house cats in the city, but entirely different to work with animals in a community where wild horses roam freely!" 

Through the ICB program, councils are strengthening their workforces, supporting their communities and fostering long-term, locally driven solutions. LGAQ is proud to play a role in this initiative and looks forward to seeing its continued impact across Queensland.