Shared Learning, Shared Purpose

The partnership is grounded in a shared commitment to supporting effective, Indigenous-led governance practices that reflects the unique contexts, priorities and strengths of our communities. It recognises that Māori and Australian First Nations communities bring distinct histories, protocols, governing traditions and lived experience – and that learning together strengthens both organisations.

Rose Hiha-Agnew, CEO Community Governance Aotearoa, says: “We are looking forward to embarking on this shared journey with AIGI, growing our mātauranga, to create a powerful network of Indigenous governance thought leaders who are united in purpose”.

Ragina Rogers, CEO Australian Indigenous Governance Institute “This exciting partnership with Community Governance Aotearoa has grown out of a shared commitment between our two organisations to support strong, culturally legitimate Indigenous governance in both Australia and Aotearoa. We know there’s incredible work happening in our communities, and providing a platform where leaders can share these stories will be such a powerful tool for supporting Indigenous self-determination across the Tasman.”

Val Price-Beck, Chair of Australian Indigenous Governance Institute “A partnership with Community Governance Aotearoa reflects the importance of Indigenous-led organisations learning alongside one another while remaining grounded in our own cultural traditions, laws and responsibilities. Building strong, effective and culturally legitimate governance is long-term work, and this collaboration creates an opportunity to strengthen Indigenous leadership on both sides of the Tasman.”

Hemi Rolleston, Chair of Community Governance Aotearoa, says: “We are looking forward to embarking on this shared journey with AIGI, growing our mātauranga, to create a powerful network of Indigenous governance thought leaders who are united in purpose”.

First Initiative: Indigenous Governance Podcast Series (2026)

As the first initiative under the partnership, CGA and AIGI will launch a trans-Tasman Indigenous Governance Podcast Series in 2026. The series will feature Māori and Australian First Nations leaders, governance practitioners, and experts sharing stories, insights, and reflections on Indigenous governance in practice. The podcast will explore how Indigenous communities are shaping governance for the future by honouring culture, strengthening leadership, and building resilient, thriving communities and, amplifying Indigenous voices and connecting governance experience across Aotearoa and Australia.