June Council Meeting Update
Operational Plan 2025-2026
The Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) held its June Council meeting on Masig on 17-18 June, where it endorsed its 2025-2026 Operational Plan.
TSIRC Mayor Philemon Mosby said the first objective of the Operational Plan is to advance the Masig Statement.
“The 2022 Masig Statement is about forging a new, united path to regional sovereignty for Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people living in this region of Australia,” he said.
“We’re focused on working together with the other councils, the TSRA, and the state and federal governments to achieve regional sovereignty – or what we can call greater independence.”
“We don’t expect that to happen overnight, but we want honest and robust dialogue with our government partners about the challenges we face in making sure our people have access to a quality of life other Australians enjoy.”
TSIRC CEO, James William, highlighted the Operational Plan’s alignment with the new five-year Corporate Plan (2025-2030).
“The Council’s operations for the new financial year will support our Corporate Plan’s strategic objectives by focusing on strengthening our communities, maintaining and renewing our infrastructure, and protecting our natural environment.”
“It might be straightforward for councils on mainland Australia to fund these services – particularly infrastructure – but it remains a challenge for us because of our remoteness.”
“As Mayor Mosby pointed out, we’re planning on working with the state and federal governments to deliver what should be standard council services to our communities. That will be a central part of our advocacy in the months and years ahead.”
Committed to financial sustainability
Council also endorsed its updated insurance policy, after a review focused on Industrial Special Risk (ISR) coverage. The ISR coverage insures Council’s buildings, houses and key infrastructure, and represents the largest portion of its insurance premium. The new provider offers broader event coverage, lower excesses and a stronger alignment with Council’s long-term financial goals.
The review also identified opportunities to further improve Council’s insurance structure, including advocating to the State Government for the removal of the requirement to insure Community Housing assets — which account for over 70% of Council’s insured value. This change would help reduce costs and better align responsibilities for State-owned assets.
Mayor Philemon Mosby said Council’s decision reflects a proactive approach to managing financial risk, improving coverage and enhancing resilience in the event of major claims.
