During NAIDOC Week 2010, we celebrate Queensland Parliament's landmark decision to recognise the First Australians. We celebrate the coming together of cultures and all peoples.

What is the Preamble?

On 23 February 2010, the Queensland Parliament passed a Bill to insert a Preamble to the Constitution of Queensland. The Preamble honours Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians.

This landmark change to the Constitution provides a new vision for Queensland—a vision based on democracy, freedom, inclusiveness and peace.

Extract from the Constitution (Preamble) Amendment Act 2010

The Preamble also acknowledges Queensland's diverse and rich history, and the efforts of our ancestors who have made this state a vibrant multicultural community.

How did the Preamble come about?

This change to Queensland's Constitution resulted from an idea raised at the Queensland 2020: Ideas to Action forum held two years ago. The Parliamentary Law, Justice and Safety Committee received a referral from the Legislative Assembly to draft a Preamble including a statement of due recognition of Queensland's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Council provided a number of submissions to the Committee, including proposed wording for the statement of recognition which was adopted in full without amendment. The significant role which the members of the Advisory Council played in this historic achievement has been widely recognised.

The Preamble acknowledges our past and reaffirms our commitment to 'Closing the Gap' between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.