Overview
Cape York Institute (CYI) is Australia’s leading Indigenous think tank. Since its establishment in 2004, we have worked with our communities to develop out-of-the-box reforms that build people’s capability so they can choose a life they have reason to value.
We work from policy ideation right through to community implementation on initiatives that reinstate personal responsibility. We provide the opportunities and services necessary for First Nations people to gain the capability to change their lives for the better.
The Institute’s policy agenda – Pama Futures – is developed in collaboration with the Indigenous people of Cape York so our policies and innovations reflect the people’s intent and lived experience.
Why it Matters
For over two hundred years, policies and programs affecting Indigenous people have overwhelmingly been designed and passively delivered by those who lack the lived experience necessary to devise solutions that work.
CYI is turning this approach on its head. We work for and alongside the people of Cape York to co-design solutions that empower Indigenous people – putting power back in their hands.
Our unique approach to policy development has allowed us to develop ideas that are both locally effective and nationally significant.
What we are Doing
Cape York Institute has four domains – Strategy, Policy, Innovation and Local Partnerships – that work together to design reforms, policies and products that make a real difference to the lives of those living in Cape York and beyond.
We are currently co-designing and rolling out eight significant reforms: Constitutional Recognition, Job Guarantee, Pama Futures, Every Child Safe, Renewable Cape York, Pama Platform, Mayi Market and The Great Dreaming Track.
See below for more information on each of these reforms.
Contact information
If you are interested in the work of Cape York Institute and would like to know more about our projects, please contact us via email.
