Media release — 6 May 2009

Social Justice Commissioner to deliver Mabo Oration 2009

Commissioner Susan Booth of the Anti-Discrimination Commission Queensland today announced Mr Tom Calma, outgoing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner with the Australian Human Rights Commission as orator for the third biennial Mabo Oration on 5 June from 5.30 pm at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in Brisbane.

The announcement coincides with a visit by Commissioner Calma to Brisbane following the tabling of the Native Title Report 2008, on Tuesday which analysed the threat posed by climate change to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The Mabo Oration honours Eddie Koiki Mabo, celebrating his contribution to native land title, Indigenous human rights, and associated legal and political changes in Australia.

Mrs Mabo will represent the family at the event.

Commissioner Calma will speak on his conviction that 'From self respect comes dignity, and from dignity comes hope': meeting the challenge of social justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Mr Murray Rutledge Wilcox QC, former Federal Court Judge and author of An Australian Charter of Rights, will provide comment on Mr Calma's oration.

Mr Wilcox may be best remembered for handing down the controversial Noongar Native Title ruling before retiring in 2006.

The Mabo Oration 2009 is presented with support from QPAC.

Interview opportunities:
Commissioner Tom Calma will be available from 1.00 pm - 2.00 pm today, Wednesday 6 May 2009 for telephone interviews.
Commissioner Susan Booth of ADCQ is available for telephone interview from 12. pm - 2.00 pm today Wednesday 6 May 2009.

Media contact: MaryBeth Gundrum on 07 3247 0920 | 0439 676 364 | TTY 1300 130 680

Mabo Oration 2009 Date: Friday 5 June Time: 5.30pm Venue: Concert Hall, QPAC Price: $16.50 Bookings: Qtix: ph: 136 246 or www.qtix.com.au

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