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Woolworths creates First Nations advisory board

(Source: Supplied)

Woolworths has appointed a First Nations advisory board to improve the business’ engagement with Indigenous communities and work towards reconciliation.

The board comprises eight members, a cross-section of Woolworths Group staff and Indigenous leaders. It boasts 75 per cent Aboriginal representation.

The panel will assist in internal policies and advocacy, and play an active role in commercial decision-making with regard to Indigenous community engagement and empowerment, Woolworths said.

Creating the board was a response to “structural decision-making issues” identified by the Independent Panel Review commissioned into the Darwin Dan Murphy’s development last year, where Woolworths initially pushed ahead with plans to build a liquor store despite considerable community opposition.

Advisory board member and Big W store manager, Lauren Smith, said: “The creation of the advisory board and its dense representation of diverse First Nations voices show the real authenticity the business wants to achieve in supporting and advocating for First Nations peoples.”

Claire Peters, Woolworths group MD for B2B and everyday needs and advisory board chair, said the business believes Indigenous people should have a voice in decisions that affect them and this new board will help make meaningful contributions by drawing from their collective expertise.

“This advisory board plays a critical role in providing counsel and guidance on key issues and challenges of importance to Indigenous team members, customers and communities across Australia.”

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