In January this year, the Bishop convened a meeting in Townsville of people who are involved in the education of Aboriginal and Islander children. The purpose of the meeting was to form a Committee to review and co-ordinate Diocesan policy in regards to the education of Aboriginal students.

At its second meeting, the Review and Co-ordinating Committee considered a proposal by the Aboriginal Advisor, Catholic Education Office. The essence of that proposal was that there ought to be an Aboriginal and Islander Group to advise on matters relating to Aboriginal and Islander education. Subsequently the Committee approved of the proposal and a submission was made to the Diocesan Education Council requesting that an Advisory Group be established.