Mackay and District Australian South Sea Islander Association Inc ( MADASSIA)

The Mackay & District Australian South Sea Islander Association Incorporated (MADASSIA) was established in 1994 and Incorporated in April 1995. With concern over rising issues within the South Sea Islander community and the inability to access vital services, it was felt that there should be an organisation with community representation to voice these concerns to Government and the relevant service providers. MADASSIA's vision is quite simply - "the well-being of the Australian South Sea Islander people in the Mackay area". Our objectives are focused around this vision:-

• To provide information to our community;
• To advise Government and other groups on the needs of Australian South Sea Islanders;
• To lobby Government and other groups to improve the situation of  Australian South Sea Islanders;
• To provide services for Australian South Sea Islanders;
• To be a channel for funding for Australian South Sea Islander projects in the Mackay region;
• To educate the broader community about the culture and needs of Australian South Sea Islanders; and
• To preserve, protect and support the South Sea Islander culture, heritage and significant sites.

Representation
MADASSIA has extensive representation on a number of committees, reference groups and forums. MADASSIA represents the Australian South Sea Islander community at the Local, Sub-Regional, Regional and State level. Our MAQ Community Development Worker and Executive members (who volunteer their time) share the duties of presenting the issues of Australian South Sea Islanders to the relevant services and Government Departments. Representation covers each of the six major areas of concern as stated by the Federal Government in accordance with Australian South Sea Islander Recognition.  
The development of this site is a first for our association, and stems from the interest shown by Government and community sectors in contacting the Mackay Australian South Sea Islander community. The site features a summary of the South Sea Islander history in the region, the work of MADASSIA and gives a chapter by chapter overview of our Protocol Guide or you can download the Protocol Guide for your reference.Whilst the site is by no means extensive, it provides the user with a quick reference and guide to establishing contact with MADASSIA and garnering basic knowledge of our community.The site will be updated from time to time as the need arises and there are plans for further development. It is my sincere hope that the site is useful in assisting you.