A first of its kind, the Act recognises Torres Strait Islander lore in Western Law and establishes a process for the legal recognition of Torres Strait Islander traditional child rearing practice.
'Meriba Omasker' and 'Kaziw Kazipa' is made up of language terms from Eastern island language and Top Western island languages of the Torres Strait and collectively is translated as 'for our children's children'.
The Office of the Commissioner (Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa) acknowledges and pays our respects to the Traditional Owners and Elders of the lands as well as to those of the past who have nurtured and ensured the continuing of Torres Strait Islander child rearing practice, to those who have advocated tirelessly for the legal recognition of this practice, and to those who continue to nurture and protect Torres Strait Islander child rearing practice.