February, 2024
October, 2023
Goolum pilot’s a Self-Determined Justice Model
In a landmark endeavour poised to redefine the landscape of justice and healing, the Yallum Yallum Elders and Respected Persons Council have embarked on an ambitious mission.
Grounded in the principles of cultural resilience and restorative justice, this initiative marks a stride in the community's vision towards a selfdetermined justice model.
The ethos of the Council is the aspiration to craft an independent model that goes beyond conflict resolution.
Wotjobaluk man and elected co-voice of the council, Collin Gorton, reflecting on this initiative, shared, "We
sought to explore its potential, particularly given our collective experiences. It's designed to divert individuals from the justice system for lesser offenses, offering an alternative to traditional court proceedings."
A hallmark of this initiative is a series of conferences designed to harness the potential of restorative justice principles. Collin said participants are provided with a nurturing and culturally safe environment to display accountability and commit to actions that restore all harmed parties, under the guidance of the council.
"The mainstream system often overlooks the personal circumstances of offenders, reducing them to
Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative respectfully acknowledges that our offices are based on unceded land of the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawajali, Wergaia and Jupagulk peoples. We pay our respects to their ancestors, and to Elders, both past and present, and to the future Elders and caretakers of this land.
Ants, Goolum CEO
February brings exciting updates as we unveil the Yallum Yallum restorative justice diversion program, a significant step forward in our commitment to healing and reconciliation. We bid farewell to valued team members Di Sultan, Di McLeod Aroha Selby, and Dylan De Jong, thanking them for their dedicated service. As Goolum celebrates its 40th anniversary, we reflect on our journey's resilience and unity.
We also honour the invaluable contributions of women in our community, particularly through cultural practices like basking weaving, which preserves our heritage and empowers us all.
These milestones remind us of our collective strength and determination to serve our community with integrity and compassion. As we look ahead, let us continue advancing our mission, guided by the principles of unity and progress.
Meet the Goolum Goolum Board of Directors
stereotypes. Yallum Yallum provides a more understanding approach, helping individuals avoid harsher sentences."
Collin said central to the council's approach is the concept of cultural resilience a journey of rediscovery aimed at rekindling individuals' bonds with their cultural heritage.
have made a mistake and gives them a chance to be remorseful and even change the path that they are heading down.
"It's about offering guidance and support tailored to the individual's needs, fostering self determination and accountability. The program aims to earn respect within the community by empowering individuals to take responsibility for their actions,” he said.
The Yallum Yallum program emphasises community obligation as a vital component, highlighting participants' recognition of the impact of their actions on the community. By fostering accountability and responsibility, the program aims to mitigate the risk of recidivism.
Community obligation serves as a driving force for individual growth and community strengthening, encouraging participants to reconnect with their Aboriginal identity and cultural heritage.
"It will give people a chance to stand up and be accountable for their actions especially to the panel facing your elders and community can be way worse than facing a judge.
"Hopefully, we can see some changes in the way people think about the justice system and make some real change in the system so our people are not just going to jail and seek the help they really need."
Each agreement between participants and the panel of Elders and Respected Persons is curated with a discernible focus on restoring harmony and facilitating cultural empowerment. The goal is to address the root causes of offenses, offering a more uplifting alternative to traditional justice systems.
By understanding the backstory and providing personalised support, the program seeks to prevent reoffending. Moreover, the council is committed to remedying any residual harm inflicted upon the broader community fabric.
Through collaborative agreements with the program's panel, participants address risk factors while mending harm inflicted upon the community. I am Community and my Community is me encapsulates the ethos, affirming the reciprocal relationship between individuals and their community, fostering accountability, and promoting positive outcomes.
Council co-voice Stumpy King said it was exciting to see an initiative that aimed to address the root of individuals' behaviour.
"I was excited to finally have something where we don't just send people to jail as the crime doesn't always fit the punishment," she said.
"I think this gives the community a chance to know they
Collin reiterated, "Looking ahead, once we iron out the details, this program has the potential to have a significant impact, not just locally but possibly nationwide. It's a unique approach that delves deeper than existing alternatives like Koorie Court, offering comprehensive support and cultural connection.
Ultimately, it's about reconnecting individuals with their culture and community, providing them with the tools to rebuild their lives."
Yallum Yallum is a pilot project funded by the Grampians Regional Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee (RAJAC) implementation funds and supported by RMIT Centre for Innovative Justice.
Days and hours of service
Wednesdays and Thursdays 9am - 3pm
Contact: Jenny and Eliza 0488 138 482
