The Central Highlands region is in Central Queensland, Australia. The region encompasses an area of around 60,000 square kilometres, making it just short of the size of Tasmania. It is home to around 30,000 people who live in the 13 unique communities of Arcadia Valley, Bauhinia, Blackwater, Bluff, Capella, Comet, Dingo, Duaringa, Emerald, Rolleston, Sapphire Gemfields, Springsure and Tieri.

The Central Highlands was originally home to many First Nations people who remain proud custodians of these lands. Central Highlands Regional Council respectfully acknowledges their Traditional Custodianship.

We value cultural diversity in our region and view Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and heritage as integral in a shared national identity. We have a strong commitment to building inclusive and vibrant communities and are committed to providing services and opportunities that are respectful and accessible to all members of the community.

Our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan 2019-2020, which was adopted in March 2019, ensures that Central Highlanders are respectful of the tradition and culture of its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community who make up 6.4% of the population. It is a plan for the past the present and the future.

As a vibrant community that is welcoming of all people, this plan shows that a strong commitment to the Indigenous history of this region makes it inherently a better community to build a future.