Our WorkThe Mackay & District Australian South Sea Islander Association Incorporated (MADASSIA) was established in 1994 and incorporated in April 1995. With concern over rising issues within the South Sea Islander community and the inability to access vital services, it was felt that there should be an organisation with community representation to voice these concerns to Government and the relevant service providers.
MADASSIA's vision is quite simply - "the well-being of the Australian South Sea Islander people in the Mackay area". Our objectives are focused around this vision:-
- to provide information to our community;
- to advise Government and other groups on the needs of Australian South Sea Islanders;
- to lobby Government and other groups to improve the situation of Australian South Sea Islanders;
- to provide services for Australian South Sea Islanders;
- to be a channel for funding for Australian South Sea Islander projects in the Mackay region;
- to educate the broader community about the culture and needs of Australian South Sea Islanders; and
- to preserve, protect and support the South Sea Islander culture, heritage and significant sites.
RepresentationMADASSIA has extensive representation on a number of committees, reference groups and forums. MADASSIA represents the Australian South Sea Islander community at the Local, Sub-Regional, Regional and State level.
Our Community Development Officer and Executive members (who volunteer their time) share the duties of presenting the issues of Australian South Sea Islanders to the relevant services and Government Departments.
Representation covers each of the six major areas of concern as stated by the Federal Government in accordance with Australian South Sea Islander Recognition. A more detailed synopsis is outlined in the Focus Group section listed on this site.