First Nations Consultations For the Australian Human Rights Commission Consultation Planning In-Person Consultations: The design and structure of the National AntiRacism Framework, First Nations consultations received endorsement from the PAG. The locations of the in-person consultations were informed by Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data which highlighted communities most affected by racism and that recorded a high percentage of ‘no’ votes in the 2023 Referendum. Conducted across metropolitan, rural, and remote locations in all states and territories, these sessions comprised interviews, focus groups, and community consultations. The in-person format facilitated deeper discussions and nuanced insights, cultivating trust and engagement among participants. Each session was led by First Nations facilitators who ensured adherence to cultural protocols and utilised culturally informed ways of engagement and communication. Locations were strategically chosen based on demographic data as well as ABS data sets to ensure broad representation of First Nations communities. The consultations were structured to foster open and honest dialogue, providing participants with a safe and supportive environment to share their experiences with racism and discrimination. The design of the engagement approach integrated both inperson and virtual methods to accommodate the varied needs and circumstances of participants. Virtual Consultations: Online Surveys: To address geographical barriers and enhance accessibility, virtual consultations were conducted via video conferencing platforms such as Zoom. This approach enabled individuals unable to attend inperson sessions due to distance or other constraints to contribute their perspectives. Virtual sessions were scheduled at various times to accommodate different time zones and participant availability, with technical support provided to reduce accessibility barriers and ensure smooth connectivity. To capture a wide array of viewpoints, an online survey was developed and disseminated through social media, community organisations, and email lists. The survey featured both quantitative and qualitative questions, allowing participants to articulate their experiences with racism and offer recommendations for the framework. Designed in accordance with best practices in survey methodology, the survey included clear, concise questions and a mix of open and closed-ended formats, with options for anonymous responses. The survey generated a substantial dataset, yielding valuable insights into the prevalence and impact of racism across diverse contexts. An Anti-Racism Framework: Voices of First Nations Peoples Page 18

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