Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026): The International Journal of Indigenous Business
Articles

Identified Positions in Queensland: A Discussion on Purpose, Practice, and Possibilities

Olssen_PDF
  • Emma Olssen
Emma Olssen
Ms
Inaugural Edition: International Journal of Indigenous Business
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64222/JRCX4635

Published 2026-02-17

Keywords

  • Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander peoples,
  • Identified positions,
  • Employment,
  • Indigenous employment,
  • Affirmative action measures,
  • Legislation,
  • Tokenism
    • ...More
    Less

How to Cite

Olssen, E. (2026). Identified Positions in Queensland: A Discussion on Purpose, Practice, and Possibilities. The International Journal of Indigenous Business, 1(1), 116–120. https://doi.org/10.64222/JRCX4635

Copyright (c) 2026 Emma Olssen

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.

Abstract

This discussion paper critically examines the concept and practice of identified positions in Queensland, specifically those targeted for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Drawing on Indigenous standpoint theory and early-stage qualitative research, it interrogates the legislative, cultural, and organisational interpretations of these roles. The paper argues that, while identified positions are intended to address inequities and recognise cultural expertise, their inconsistent application and ambiguous purpose can contribute to confusion and tokenism. Through personal reflection, legislative analysis, and emerging insights from yarning sessions, this paper invites dialogue on how identified roles can be reimagined to foster genuine inclusion and structural change. It contributes to ongoing conversations about Indigenous employment, equity, and the responsibilities of organisations in creating culturally safe workplaces.

Olssen_PDF

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