NSW Fair Trading Minister, Linda Burney, today called on Aboriginal people with experience in conciliation, mediation or dispute resolution to apply for a new role with the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal (CTTT) to help Aboriginal people resolve their consumer disputes.

Ms Burney said the CTTT had recognised the need for an Aboriginal person to work with communities, especially in regional and remote areas, and thus established the position of Deputy Registrar, Aboriginal Conciliation.

“The successful applicant will play an important role in encouraging Aboriginal consumers to use the services of the Tribunal and assist them in resolving their disputes,” Ms Burney said.

“More importantly, this person will ensure the CTTT has information and processes that are relevant and appropriate for Aboriginal communities.

“If disputes can be resolved through the use of conciliation, by talking and coming up with appropriate solutions, then we can cut out the need for a hearing which may involve more time, possible travel and undue stress.”

Ms Burney said it’s no secret that Aboriginal people are often apprehensive in a legal environment such as a tribunal and in many cases are unaware of their consumer rights.

“I hope this new position will also increase awareness of CTTT services for Aboriginal people and its effectiveness in resolving disputes,” Ms Burney said.

“This person will assist the CTTT to provide a culturally appropriate way for Aboriginal people to resolve their disputes about the supply of goods and services and the often complex issues surrounding Aboriginal housing.

“I look forward to suitably qualified and experienced Aboriginal people coming forward and applying for this role and being willing to give something back to the community.

The role was re-advertised on 29 January, with applications closing on 22 February 2008.

The CTTT’s broad jurisdiction covers retail transactions, motor vehicle purchase and repair, credit matters, agents’ fees, residential tenancies, home building, strata and community schemes, residential parks and retirement villages.

The Tribunal receives over 65,000 applications annually and approximately 40 per cent of these applications are lodged online.

During the last financial year, the Tribunal held over 79,000 hearings at 95 venues across New South Wales with 78 per cent of matters finalised prior to or at the first hearing.

Information on the salary and position description is available on the NSW Government jobs website www.jobs.nsw.gov.au. Further assistance and advice regarding the selection criteria for this position is available from Tamara Bellear-Mayers, Aboriginal Employment Consultant, on (02) 9372 7672.

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