This Newsletter covers Federal and State policy and legislative developments in the area of Indigenous Affairs. Copies of documents referred to can be obtained by clicking on the reference in this Newsletter or through Capital Monitor's collection at www.capitalmonitor.com.au or from the source quoted.
Major Announcements
Communities and Families
06 July
Success for Jumbun Limited's 45th Anniversary
The Jumbun community is in high spirits, celebrating 45 years of Jumbun Limited during a commemorative Anniversary Ceremony, held on Girramay Country, Indigenous Land Corporation (ILC). Coinciding with NAIDOC Week, Jumbun Limited have organised days' worth of celebrations including an opening ceremony, colour fun run community event, Elders dinner and Rainforest Cricket Cup games. Jumbun has a population of approximately 140 people from the Girramay and Dyirbal Aboriginal Nations, with Jirrbal and Gulnay people also sharing the community. The 243-ha property consists of 26 residential houses, a Community Hall, medical centre and agricultural paddocks.
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QLD: Grants celebrate role of Elders and communities in looking after Country
The Queensland Government is inviting First Nations community organisations to apply for grants to support the inter-generational sharing of knowledge and care for land and sea Country, said Queensland Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Minister for Science and Minister for Multicultural Affairs Leanne Linard. Indigenous Corporations, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Councils and other non-profit organisations with majority First Nations boards are eligible to apply for the latest round of Looking After Country grants, worth up to $75,000 each. Eligible organisations can use the grants to deliver projects that provide opportunities for their communities to connect and work on Country, creating employment and skill development.
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WA: Free online resource helps Aboriginal families trace links with WA orphanages and missions
A free online resource will help Aboriginal families establish links to children sent to Perth orphanages and missions from 1868 to 1920, said WA Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Dr Tony Buti. A free online resource will help Aboriginal families establish links to children sent to Perth orphanages and missions from 1868 to 1920. The Perth and Swan Orphanages and Mission Index is a searchable database holding information on children admitted to four institutions located in Perth and the Swan Valley. Over the course of almost 50 years, about 300 children were removed from their families and placed within these institutions.
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WA: Funding boost to support child safe organisations
The WA Government has provided $301,703 in funding to implement initiatives to support the community services sector to keep children safe, said WA Minister for Child Protection Sabine Winton. The Western Australian Council of Social Service (WACOSS), who are the peak body for the community services sector, will manage the project in partnership with the Department of Communities and other key stakeholders. The project will support the implementation of the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations and provide education and resources to build capacity across the community service sector, with a focus on small and medium-sized organisations.
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05 July
ASIC acts to ensure better banking outcomes for Indigenous consumers
An Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) review has found that some individuals in high-fee transaction accounts, including First Nations people, are paying up to $3000 in overdraw fees over a year. Banks need to do more to assist such customers to move into low-fee accounts. The Better Banking for Indigenous Consumers Project reviewed target market determinations (TMDs) for both high-fee and low-fee 'basic' accounts offered by some of Australia's major and regional banks. ASIC issued notices to those banks requiring data on fees charged to consumers in locations with higher-than-average proportions of Indigenous people and for customers in receipt of AbStudy payments.
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Culture and Arts
07 July
ANSTO technology supports environmental monitoring of ancient Aboriginal rock art
The installation of the radon monitor supports the Murujuga Rock Art Monitoring Program: Monitoring studies data collection and analysis plan by the WA Department of Water and Environmental Regulation. Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) is collaborating with Curtin University to protect the site, home to what is believed to be the largest collection of petroglyphs in the world ANSTO's radon measurements support a number of the objectives in the monitoring program including improved distinction between sources of the atmospheric pollutants present in industrial emissions and emissions from bushfires on Murujuga, which are capable of causing degradation of, or change in, the petroglyphs.
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NSW: Monaro art workshops promote conversations about caring for Country during NAIDOC Week
To celebrate NAIDOC week, the NSW Government Saving our Species program and Snowy Monaro Regional Council partnered with Aboriginal artist Gail Neuss to run a series of art workshops across the Monaro region. NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) Community Engagement Officer Melanie Sim said the workshops brought wonderful groups of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people together to create art and talk about caring for Country. 'In Cooma and Michelago, local women were invited to paint their impressions of the Monaro, with photos of local threatened species, including the earless dragon and mauve burr-daisy, on the walls around them to inspire ideas,' said Ms Sim.
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06 July
QLD: Grants to protect cultural heritage values on Cape
Four First Nations groups are sharing in $200,000 in funding from the Queensland Government to help progress areas of Cape York towards heritage listing with the free prior and informed consent of First Nations peoples. Queensland Minister for Environment and Science, Leanne Linard, said 'This NAIDOC Week, we celebrate and acknowledge Aboriginal culture as one of the oldest living cultures in the world. It is important that we recognise its unique significance and support First Nations peoples to protect it as we continue along the Path to Treaty. 'The funding will help Traditional Owners conduct cultural heritage assessments to support the potential heritage nominations and the recognition and protection of the outstanding cultural and natural values of the Cape for current and future generation.'
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04 July
First Nations visual arts to prosper
The Australian Government is investing in 42 First Nations art centres and organisations, with more than $5 million in funding through the latest round of the Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support program, said Minister for the Arts Tony Burke. This program will help fund the operations of art centres, fairs, regional hubs and industry service organisations at the heart of Australia's world-renowned First Nations visual art sector. The Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support program supports a professional, viable and ethical Indigenous visual arts industry which provides economic opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. It also fosters the continued production, exhibition, critique, purchase and collection of Indigenous visual art.
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03 July
Powerhouse Museum used powerful non-invasive nuclear and accelerator techniques to gain information about significant Aboriginal cultural belongings
The ANSTO is committed to using its infrastructure and expertise to work with Aboriginal communities and organisations to confirm the great antiquity of Aboriginal cultural heritage and assist with their preservation. A number of sophisticated non-invasive nuclear and accelerator techniques were used to provide information about the origin and age of an Australian Aboriginal knife held in the collection of the Powerhouse Museum. The knife with a striking highly polished resin handle was selected to be part of a 26-object exhibition, The Invisible Revealed held at the Powerhouse during 2021-2022.
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VIC: Wadawurrung art and design key feature of upgrade
Art and design celebrating Wadawurrung cultural heritage is a key feature of the Barwon Heads Road Upgrade, said Victoria's Big Build. The Indigenous elements are a legacy of collaboration on the upgrade between Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation (WTOAC) and Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV). MRPV engaged WTOAC to incorporate informed, meaningful Wadawurrung design in the upgrade and to improve connections with the Wadawurrung's living cultural heritage and communities. As the Registered Aboriginal Party for Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, WTOAC works to support their aspirations and protect their cultural heritage in accordance with the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.
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Education
07 July
QLD: Queensland Government support for Indigenous Centre of Excellence
The Queensland Government will provide $350,000 in funding over seven years for the Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence for Indigenous and Environmental Histories and Futures at James Cook University, Cairns' campus, announced Queensland Minister for Environment and Science, Leanne Linard and Queensland Member for Cairns, Michael Healy. The Centre will prioritise sustainable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led approaches to land and sea management planning and develop complementary Indigenous and Western frameworks to model environmental, cultural, and historical change in Australia. Benefits from the Centre's work will include improved forecasting of environmental change, an increased capacity of Indigenous research, opportunities for Indigenous students, and evidence-based policy making.
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06 July
NSW: Learning from Elders in NAIDOC Week
The NAIDOC Week theme was embraced by students at Berala Public School. Pascal Adolphe reports. The NSW Department of Education said Indigenous students at Berala Public led the school's NAIDOC Week celebrations and highlighted the significant role played by their Elders. Year 6 student Hope Cleary said it was wonderful that the theme for NAIDOC Week this year was 'For Our Elders'. 'We have a proud history in our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, and we can continually learn from our Elders,' she said.
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05 July
NSW: Cultural connection an everyday part of learning
Learning about, through and within culture is an everyday part of learning and growing at Batemans Bay Public School, on Walbunja Country, where every student is given the opportunity to learn about and connect with Aboriginal culture, said the NSW Department of Education. Principal Kel Smerdon said the school has worked hard in recent years to develop Aboriginal learning programs for all students at the school. 'At Batemans Bay Public School we have mapped our wellbeing and curriculum programs and built a Preschool to Year 6 and beyond approach to developing a connection for all our students to the lands upon which we learn,' Mr Smerdon said.
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04 July
Final check for Murrayfield Station's divestment
The weetapoona Aboriginal Corporation (wAC) is recognising a significant milestone - finalising the divestment of Murrayfield Station, located on the north-eastern corner of Bruny Island, Tasmania. The Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC) will hand over the station's business operations to the wAC to permanently manage, including farming duties, sheep and wool production and property maintenance. The wAC will also manage the onsite accommodation for school and university students, who use the facilities for camping and Aboriginal education programs. The farm also supports trainees completing their Certificate II and III in Agriculture. The transfer of Murrayfield's farming business marks the final chapter in the property's divestment.
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03 July
NSW: Alexandria Park Community School becomes NAIDOC hub
Community members joined students and staff at Alexandria Park Community School for a day of NAIDOC celebrations, said the NSW Department of Education. Aboriginal astronomy, the Dharawal language, weaving and games featured among the activities Alexandria Park Community School students participated in as the school celebrated NAIDOC on the last day of Term 2. Uncle Hilton Donovan emphasised the importance of NAIDOC Week to the school community. 'NAIDOC Week is an essential part of our culture where we get an opportunity to celebrate and share our culture with other diverse groups,' he said.
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Employment
05 July
NSW: $250,000 to support First Nations women into work
As part of the NSW Government's Return to Work Pathways Program, $250,000 has been provided to Angus Knight Foundation to help First Nations women and girls gain employment. NSW Minister for Women Jodie Harrison congratulated Angus Knight Foundation (AKG Foundation) for its Women's Business Return to Work project, which supports the NSW Government's commitment to enhance women's economic opportunity and advancement. 'Increasing women's workforce participation is a cornerstone to achieving gender equality and economic security,' Minister Harrison said. 'Women face common and persistent employment barriers, and for some communities, there are additional complexities unique to their needs, life stages and circumstances.
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03 July
Indigenous Ranger Reference Group: Expressions of Interest now open
In mid-2022, the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) concluded public consultation on the Indigenous Rangers Sector Strategy 2022-2028 - Consultation draft (the Strategy). The Strategy is intended to support the ongoing success of a growing Indigenous ranger sector. The NIAA heard some valuable ideas from stakeholders about how to improve. Key themes included that the Strategy needs to better reflect the important connection between Country and culture and embody First Nations' land and water management goals and Traditional Owner priorities. It was also clear that stakeholders want a greater emphasis on the importance of First Nations-led, local and regional initiatives to support sector development.
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Supporting the next wave of Indigenous business
In Ngarrindjeri, pipis or 'kuti' have been sustainably harvested from the Coorong for more than 19,000 years, said National Australia Bank (NAB). Formed in 2019, Kuti Co is a wholly Ngarrindjeri owned fishing company developed to support traditional practices around harvesting kuti. 'Harvesting Pipis (or Kuti) by hand has a long and proud history in our region. Our approach is about honouring those traditions and building community - drawing together to protect all that's important, to all of us.' Ngarrindjeri Elder and Kuti Co Director, Uncle Derek Walker, said Kuti Co works with local fishing teams to hand harvest kuti all year round.
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Health
06 July
Celebrating Aboriginal Hostels Limited 50th anniversary
The Australian Government organisation Aboriginal Hostels Limited (AHL) is celebrating its 50 th anniversary. The Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney marked the milestone at an event in Canberra last night (Wednesday 5 July 2023). Aboriginal Hostels Limited plays an important role in First Nations communities, providing a home away from home with safe, affordable and culturally appropriate accommodation. Since 1973, AHL hostels has supported thousands of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. Currently, there are 42 hostels nation-wide. In recognition of the vital role hostels play, the Australian Government has committed an additional $20.8 million to AHL over the next two years.
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05 July
Latoya's Journey: breaking down barriers to digital health literacy with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community driven resources
NAIDOC Week 2023 (2-9 July) provides a significant opportunity to showcase how digital health tools can support healthcare access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, including reducing the need for people to travel to get the care they need, and supporting care on Country regardless of location. The Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA), in consultation with the Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC), has released an in-language educational video as part of an ongoing initiative to enhance digital health literacy in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities so that people can most effectively engage with their health.
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Research award supports the development of digital mental health resources
Collaboratively developing digital mental health resources to support Tiwi people will be the aim of 2023 Harry Christian Giese Research into Action Award recipient and Menzies School of Health Research mental health researcher, Dr Josie Povey, over the next 12 months. Funds from the award will assist Josie and her team to continue the Ngawurramangajirri project, which saw 15 Tiwi Elders, 8 Tiwi young people and 4 health professionals co-create the first Tiwi to English phrasebook for mental health and wellbeing in 2019. Since its launch in 2020, this project has reached over 500 people, with the resources distributed on the Tiwi Islands and in Darwin.
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04 July
QLD: State Government steps in to open up Karingal facility
The Queensland Government has stepped in to provide almost $7 million in operational funding for the Karingal Patient Transition Accommodation Centre in Townsville, said Queensland Minister for Housing Meaghan Scanlon and Queensland Minister for Health Shannon Fentiman. The operational funding, split between the Department of Housing and Queensland Health, will help First Nations people living in remote areas access healthcare while reducing the risk of homelessness after treatment. Although the Karingal facility was originally built by the Commonwealth, the former federal government failed to allocate operational costs leaving the multi-million facility vacant.
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30 June
$29.6 million to support First Nations-led research and to help people with traumatic brain injury
Department of Health and Aged Care has announced that Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) grant opportunities to the value of $29.6 million are now available. Applications are open for the following MRFF grant funding: $21.6 million under the 2023 Indigenous Health Research grant opportunity. This funding will support First Nations-led research into the improved care and wellbeing of First Nations people and reduced rates of cancer and infectious diseases. $8 million under the 2023 Traumatic Brain Injury grant opportunity to help develop personalised care, and to improve outcomes, for people with traumatic brain injury.
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QLD: Coronial findings handed down into tragic rheumatic heart disease deaths
Queensland Minister for Health Shannon Fentiman has welcomed the findings of a coronial inquest into the tragic deaths of three First Nations women who died of rheumatic heart disease (RHD). The Minister sends her condolences to the families of those who passed away, as well as the entire Doomadgee community. The Government will accept all recommendations and will work with the Doomadgee community, including Elders and local health providers, to respond appropriately.
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Housing
None this edition.
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Justice
None this edition.
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Land and Native Title
07 July
Celebrating dedication of Martu Indigenous Protected Area
The dedication of the Warla-Warrarn Martu Indigenous Protected Area has been celebrated, with a ceremony near the remote community of Punmu in the Western Desert in Western Australia, announced Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek and Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney. The ceremony, hosted by Jamukurnu Yapalikurnu Aboriginal Corporation, marks the protection of 2.2 million hectares on the native title lands of the Martu people. This is the equivalent to around a third of the size of Tasmania. The protection of this land adds to Australia's national estate and is a boost for critical habitat of threatened species like the Night Parrot and Greater Bilby.
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04 July
Final check for Murrayfield Station's divestment
The weetapoona Aboriginal Corporation (wAC) is recognising a significant milestone - finalising the divestment of Murrayfield Station, located on the north-eastern corner of Bruny Island, Tasmania. The Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC) will hand over the station's business operations to the wAC to permanently manage, including farming duties, sheep and wool production and property maintenance. The wAC will also manage the onsite accommodation for school and university students, who use the facilities for camping and Aboriginal education programs. The farm also supports trainees completing their Certificate II and III in Agriculture. The transfer of Murrayfield's farming business marks the final chapter in the property's divestment.
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NSW: Iconic South Coast Island Nature Reserve dual named in recognition of cultural significance
The NSW Government has officially given Montague Island Nature Reserve a dual Aboriginal name, in honour of the cultural significance of the island to the Yuin people, said NSW Minister for the Environment and Heritage Penny Sharpe. Barunguba Montague Island Nature Reserve, off Narooma on the NSW south coast, is valued as a significant ceremonial area and resource gathering place. In addition to its Aboriginal cultural values and state-listed European lighthouse heritage, the nature reserve protects several seabird species including the endangered Gould's petrel, one of the largest little penguin colonies in NSW, and Australian and New Zealand fur seals.
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03 July
NSW: Sorry business - The passing of Uncle George Fernando
NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) and the Land Rights network mourn the passing of Elder Uncle Arthur George Fernando in Walgett. Uncle George was involved in Land Rights for more than 40 years, and was a proud founding member of the Walgett Local Aboriginal Land Council (WLALC). His commitment to the WLALC remained steadfast across the decades as a Board Member and Chairperson, as well as his continuing service as a Chairperson and Board member with many organisations. Most recently, he was Chairperson of WLALC in August 2022 when their land claim for ten hectares of pristine bushland on the Namoi River was successful.
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NSW: NAIDOC Week 2023 - For Our Elders NSW Events
NAIDOC 2023 is here, with the important theme this year of For Our Elders from Sunday July 2 - Sunday July 9. For Our Elders acknowledges our Elders as the heart of our communities and the roles they have played, and continue to play, in our communities, organisations and families. The NSWALC honours the Elders, the Land Rights Warriors whose many years of work led to the passing of the NSW Aboriginal Land Rights Act on June 10, 1983. The ALRA was only established because of our Elders and their commitment to Land Rights, justice and a positive future for Aboriginal peoples in NSW.
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Reconciliation
06 July
Celebrating culture: From Torres Strait to biggest NAIDOC Week event in state
The Thaiwa Dance Team has lit up centre stage with traditional song, dance and language of the Torres Strait at the 2023 National NAIDOC Week Award Ceremony in Meeanjin (Brisbane) on the weekend (Saturday 1 July). For some members of the dance team from the remote community of Iama (Yam Island), it was also their first time travelling to South East Queensland. The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) funded the 14-member traditional dance group to make the 4,000km+ round trip to perform in the Queensland capital.
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05 July
TAS: NAIDOC Week celebrates generations of Elders
NAIDOC Week 2023 is an important time to celebrate and learn more about the history, heritage and culture of the First Tasmanians. Held from 2 - 9 July, this year's theme is 'For Our Elders', acknowledging the important roles Elders play as trailblazers, teachers, advocates, nurturers and survivors. Tasmanian Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Roger Jaensch, said Elders play a special role in local communities, helping to guide the next generation. 'The Tasmanian Government is committed to working in partnership with Tasmanian Aboriginal people and exploring new ways to bring Aboriginal voices into our decision- making and co-design of programs and services,' Minister Jaensch said.
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04 July
ACF statement on the Voice
The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) says 'Yes' to an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice and the full implementation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart. 'Australia's Constitution is 122 years old and still does not recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the First Peoples of this continent. We are a nation that is not whole. We are made up of diverse peoples but are not united. And we are far from equal. The Voice is an act of recognition of the First Peoples of this land we share, giving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people a say over the things that affect them.'
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BSL joins 70+ organisations from across the Australian community joining together to support a 'Yes' vote for the Voice to Parliament
In a highly unusual alliance, Australia's not-for-profits have joined forces with the banks, sporting code peaks, IT and insurance companies, trade unions, educational institutions, and some of the country's biggest corporations to support a Voice to Parliament and a 'yes' vote in the Referendum. The more than 70 organisations are all members of a network of 2,450 organisations with a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). The group includes the Brotherhood of St. Laurence, Life Without Barriers, Independent Education Union, Public Health Association of Australia, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Goodstart Early Learning, Wesfarmers, Fremantle Football Club, National Rugby League, Fujitsu Australia Limited, Origin Energy, Federation University and Transgrid among many others.
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MCA acknowledges NAIDOC Week 2023
The Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) acknowledges the guidance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders during NAIDOC Week 2023. This year's theme, For Our Elders, highlights the significant role of Elders in our communities. Their leadership, wisdom and links to the rich cultures across Australia ensure that generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will know their Dreaming. The minerals industry continues to learn from the knowledge and experiences of the Elders across our operational locations. Their graciousness in passing on their knowledge to our industry ensures appropriate consideration of their tangible and intangible cultural heritage around our operations.
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WA: NAIDOC Week - towards a shared future
Western Power's recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' connection to lands, waters and communities is continuing during NAIDOC Week with an extension of its dual naming program. 'Everyone at Western Power has a role to play in reconciliation and through our Reconciliation Action Plan we're working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to strengthen our relationships and create meaningful change,' Western Power Executive Sponsor of the Walking Together Employee Network Group (ENG) Gair Landsborough said. Western Power maintains the State's main electricity network, the South West Interconnected System, with assets, depots, and offices on Noongar, Yamatji and Wangkatha Country.
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03 July
Large, diverse support for the Voice to Parliament
In a highly unusual alliance, Australia's not-for-profits have joined with banks, sporting code peaks, IT and insurance companies, trade unions, educational institutions, and some of the country's biggest corporations to support a Voice to Parliament and a 'yes' vote in the Referendum, said Mission Australia. The more than 70 organisations are all members of a network of 2,450 organisations with a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). The group includes the Brotherhood of St. Laurence, Life Without Barriers, Independent Education Union, Public Health Association of Australia, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Goodstart Early Learning, Wesfarmers, Fremantle Football Club, National Rugby League, Fujitsu Australia Limited, Origin Energy, Federation University and Transgrid among many others.
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NAIDOC Week 2023
The Sax Institute joins Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in celebrating NAIDOC week, which runs this year from the 2nd to 9th July. NAIDOC Week has its roots in Aboriginal activism in the 1920s and 1930s, and in particular in the first Day of Mourning protest organised in 1938. It is an Indigenous-led initiative that invites all Australians to celebrate the history, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year's theme is 'For Our Elders' and is a celebration of the prominent role Elders continue to play across every generation in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and communities.
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NSW: National NAIDOC Week 2023 For Our Elders
NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for us to learn and celebrate the oldest continuing culture on the planet. It is also a time to celebrate and acknowledge the culture, excellence and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the country. NSW Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said the 2023 NAIDOC Week theme For Our Elders encourages people to celebrate and pay homage to the Elders in communities. 'We can learn from our Elders who are the cultural knowledge holders and who are key to guiding us on the path to reconciliation and a better future for all,' Mr Speakman said.
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NSW: NAIDOC Week 2023 - For Our Elders NSW Events
NAIDOC 2023 is here, with the important theme this year of For Our Elders from Sunday July 2 - Sunday July 9. For Our Elders acknowledges our Elders as the heart of our communities and the roles they have played, and continue to play, in our communities, organisations and families. The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) honours the Elders, the Land Rights Warriors whose many years of work led to the passing of the NSW Aboriginal Land Rights Act on June 10, 1983. The ALRA was only established because of our Elders and their commitment to Land Rights, justice and a positive future for Aboriginal peoples in NSW.
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QLD: NAIDOC Week
Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) acknowledges and celebrates NAIDOC Week, 2-9 July, and we honour the histories, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This year the theme for 2023 is For Our Elders. As Queensland walks the Path To Treaty, we are committed to reducing the over-representation of First Nations people in custody. An important part of this is ensuring our officers are trained and supported to engage with individuals in a culturally appropriate manner and encourage their engagement and connection with family, culture and country.
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QLD: NAIDOC Week - to celebrate our rich history
NAIDOC Week is a celebration of Australia's rich history, diverse cultures and the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the oldest continuing cultures on the planet. Principal Ranger Justin Enslin said the Kabi Kabi people and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) rangers will celebrate NAIDOC Week with a public event at the Tibrogargan Day Use Area on 8 July 2023. 'NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for our park visitors to acknowledge First Nations peoples and their special relationships with their Land, Sea and Sky Country,' Mr Enslin said. 'They have occupied and cared for Country for more than 60,000 years.'
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WA: Flying of flags - NAIDOC Week 2023
NAIDOC Week is held every year in early July. It is a time to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements and is an opportunity to recognise the contributions that First Nations Australians make to our country and to our society, said the WA Department of Local Government, Sports and Cultural Industries. NAIDOC originally stood for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. This committee was once responsible for organising national activities during This year, the theme for NAIDOC Week, which will be celebrated from 2 to 9 July 2023 inclusive, is 'For Our Elders'.
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WA: Port formalises its reconciliation journey
The Mid West Ports (MWPA) Reflect RAP has been endorsed by Reconciliation Australia and provides a comprehensive framework outlining deliverable actions across the four pillars of relationships, respect, opportunities, and governance. MWPA's CEO, Damian Tully said, 'Mid West Ports RAP lays the foundations of our organisation's commitment to listening, learning, and gaining an even greater understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly those local to our region. 'Formalising our reconciliation journey through a Reflect RAP is a vital first step in acknowledging the cultures, histories, knowledge, and insights of the people and communities on whose land and waters we operate,' Mr Tully said.
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02 July
QLD: Queenslanders called to celebrate NAIDOC Week 2023
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Queensland Minister for Treaty, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Leeanne Enoch have announced that Queenslanders are being invited to celebrate the histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as part of NAIDOC Week 2023. 2023's theme, For Our Elders, invites Queenslanders to reflect on the wisdom and teachings of Elders within the community and celebrate the oldest continuous living cultures in the world.
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WA: WA celebrates the contribution of our Elders this NAIDOC Week
The WA Government is inviting all Western Australians to celebrate the world's oldest living culture with the launch of 2023 NAIDOC Week. This year's NAIDOC Week theme is For Our Elders. It highlights the significant contributions made by Elders in their communities, with their leadership and guidance paving the way for better outcomes for Aboriginal people. WA Premier Roger Cook and WA Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Dr Tony Buti welcomed NAIDOC Week as an important time for all Western Australians to unify in celebration and acknowledge the deep connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have to their land, history, culture and achievement.
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Transcripts
Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney
09 JUL: Transcript of Interview with David Speers, ABC Insiders
Subjects: Voice to Parliament referendum, Reconciliation, Constitutional recognition, Robodebt Royal Commission report findings, Government services, Social services
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Minister for Northern Australia Madeleine King, WA Premier Roger Cook
08 JUL: Transcript of Press Conference, Rockingham, Western Australia
Subjects: Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, Robodebt Royal Commission, Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum, Reconciliation, NATO Summit
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
07 JUL: Transcript of Interview with James Valentine, ABC Radio Sydney
Subjects: Release of the Robodebt Royal Commission report, Reserve Bank, The Voice to Parliament, National Anti-Corruption Commission
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
06 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Kia Handley, ABC Radio Newcastle
Subjects: Newcastle Airport, Offshore wind farms, Indigenous Voice to Parliament, NRL, The Ashes, Gippsland, Port Stephens
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
06 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Richard King, 2HD Newcastle Breakfast
Subjects: Newcastle Airport, Renewable energy transition, Indigenous Voice to Parliament, Australian Electoral Commission
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
06 JUL: Transcript of Press Conference, Newcastle
Subjects: Newcastle Airport upgrade, Voice to Parliament, Reserve Bank, Energy transition, Donald Trump Jr's visa, ACCC report into childcare, Ashes, Investment, Infrastructure
Assistant Minister for Education Anthony Chisholm, Shadow Minister for Emergency Management Perin Davey
06 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Matthew Doran, ABC Afternoon Briefing
Subjects: Australian Financial Review advertisement, Cost of living, Voice to Parliament, Reserve Bank
Leader of the Nationals David Littleproud
06 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Patricia Karvelas, ABC Radio National
Subjects: Murray-Daring Basin Plan, Sustainable Diversion Limits, The Voice to Parliament, Mortgages, Cost of living
Leader of the Nationals David Littleproud
06 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Emma Rebellato, ABC News Breakfast
Subjects: The Voice to Parliament, Closing the Gap, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission ATSIC, Misinformation
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
05 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Michael Rowland, ABC News Breakfast
Subjects: Cost of living, RBA rates decision, Voice to Parliament, Hong Kong arrest warrants, Ash Barty, Inflation, Economic indicators, Yes campaign, Housing
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
05 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Peter Stefanovic, Sky News First Edition
Subjects: Reserve Bank, Indigenous Voice to Parliament, Support for Ukraine, NATO, The Ashes, Employment, Interest rates, RBA Governor, Yes campaign, Referendum
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
05 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Narelda Jacobs, 10 News
Subjects: Reserve Bank, Interest rates, Inflation, Cost of living, Stage three tax cuts, Indonesia, Voice to Parliament, The Ashes
Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney
05 JUL: Transcript of Speech to the National Press Club Address, Canberra - Unfinished Business
Subjects: Voice to Parliament, Closing the Gap, Health, Education, Unemployment, Housing, Uluru Statement from the Heart
Minister for Finance Katy Gallagher
05 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Patricia Karvelas, ABC RN Breakfast
Subjects: RBA rates decision, Recession, Economy, Cost of living, Infrastructure, Inflation, Voice to Parliament, Political donations from consultancy firms
Minister for Skills and Training Brendan O'Connor, Assistant Minister for Indigenous Australians McCarthy, Member for Solomon Luke Gosling, NT, Minister for Business, Jobs and Training, Paul Kirby
05 JUL: Transcript of Press Conference, Darwin
Subjects: Foundation skills training, Tertiary education, Skills and training, NAIDOC Week, Closing the Gap, Voice to Parliament
Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus
05 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Andy Taylor and Esther Nicols, MMM Hobart
Subjects: The Voice to Parliament, National Anti-Corruption Commission, Constitution, Yes campaign for the Voice, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus
05 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Leon Compton, ABC Statewide Tasmania
Subjects: Family Court facilities in Burnie, Child care, Voice to Parliament, National Anti-Corruption Commission, Vaping
Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler
05 JUL: Opinion Piece - Why a Voice is critical for First Nations Health
Subjects: Voice to Parliament, First Nations people, Constitutional recognition, Diseases, Healthcare system, Cancer, Heart disease, Health gaps, Investment in health
Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton, Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care Anne Ruston
05 JUL: Transcript of Press Conference, Boothby
Subjects: Healthcare, Cost of living, Energy prices, Inflation, Ukraine, Military support, Voice to Parliament, Reserve Bank, The Ashes
Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians Jacinta Nampijinpa Price
05 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Scott Bevan, ABC South East
Subjects: Voice to Parliament, Referendum, No campaign, Constitution, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, Regional communities, Human rights, Customary law, Marginalisation
Shadow Minister for Finance Jane Hume
05 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Danica De Giorgio, AM Agenda
Subjects: RBA, Interest rates, Cost of living, Inflation, Aggregate demand, Wages, RBA Governor, Voice to Parliament, Taxes, Affordable rents
Shadow Minister for Home Affairs James Paterson
05 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Thomas Oriti, ABC News Radio
Subjects: Voice to Parliament, Prime Minister's trip to Beijing, Hong Kong, Constitution, High Court, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, China-Australia relationship
Shadow Minister for Home Affairs James Paterson
05 JUL: Transcript of Interview with Danica Di Giorgio, AM Agenda
Subjects: Drones operated by the Federal Government, Hong Kong, Voice to Parliament, Australian Defence Force, High Court, No campaign, Indigenous policy, Cybersecurity
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Reports
Government response - Joint Standing Community of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Affairs report - Inquiry into community safety support services and job opportunities in the Northern Territory
Australian Government
The Australian Government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the Joint Standing Committee on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs (the Committee's) report into community safety, support services and job opportunities in the Northern Territory (NT), released in March 2023. The Australian Government is working in close partnership with communities and the NT Government to develop community-led solutions that respond to both urgent and long-standing challenges in the jurisdiction.
Download
Request for expressions of interest for services under Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984
Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment & Water (DCCEEW)
DCCEEW is seeking expressions of interest from suitably experienced and skilled individuals or entities interested in carrying out reporting, consultation and advisory duties for the Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 (ATSIHP Act) is a Commonwealth law that aims to preserve and protect areas and objects that are of particular significance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in accordance with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditions.
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Cultural safety in health care for Indigenous Australians - Monitoring Framework
Australian Institute of Health & Welfare (AIHW)
Improving cultural safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health care users can improve access to, and the quality of health care. This means a health system that respects Indigenous cultural values, strengths and differences, and also addresses racism and inequity. The Cultural safety in health care for Indigenous Australians: monitoring framework aims to measure progress in achieving cultural safety in the Australian health system. For this purpose, cultural safety is defined with reference to the experiences of Indigenous health care users, of the care they are given, their ability to access services and to raise concerns.
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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Performance Framework - Summary Report
Australian Institute of Health & Welfare (AIHW)
In 2018, the burden of disease among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people was 2.3 times that of non-Indigenous Australians. Among Indigenous Australians, mental and substance use disorders were the leading contributor to disease burden (24%). Measures of health status, determinants of health, and health system performance drawn from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Performance Framework (HPF) show mixed results.
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ACT: Performance Audit Report - Financial Management Services for Protected Persons - Report No. 3/2023
ACT Auditor-General's Office
The Public Trustee and Guardian (PTG) is a territory authority established under the Public Trustee and Guardian Act 1985 (PTG Act). The PTG supports some of the most vulnerable members of the Canberra community who require assistance in managing their lives. If a person is unable to manage their affairs due to accident, illness, age or disability and has not prepared an enduring power of attorney, the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) may appoint a manager to manage all or part of that person's finances on their behalf. A person for whom a financial manager is appointed is referred to as a protected person.
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Performance Audit Report - Management of Operation Reboot (Outpatients) - Report No. 2/2023
ACT, Auditor-General's Office
Patients referred for diagnostic and treatment services from specialists, who may not need to be admitted to hospital but require hospital services, are known as outpatients. In 2020 the ACT Government provided $3.5 million to Canberra Health Services (CHS) for an additional 14,000 specialist outpatient appointments as part of 'Operation Reboot'. Operation Reboot aimed to help address the impact of COVID-19 on the public health system. The audit considered the effectiveness of CHS' management of the outpatient services component of Operation Reboot, including its planning, implementation and monitoring and reporting arrangements.
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ACT: Performance Audit Report - Procurement of a Hybrid Electric Fire Truck - Report No. 4/2023
ACT Auditor-General's Office
On 1 September 2020 the ACT Emergency Services Agency signed a contract with Rosenbauer Australia Pty Ltd (and S.K. Rosenbauer Pte. Ltd of Singapore) for the supply of urban pumpers (i.e. fire trucks). Four fire trucks have been ordered through the contract:
• three diesel fire trucks, at a cost of $813,155 (GST ex) each (including import duty, training and delivery); and
• one hybrid electric fire truck, at a cost of $1,524,387 (GST ex) (excluding import duty, training and delivery).
The procurement of the hybrid electric fire truck was initially pursued throughout 2019 through a limited market approach (previously referred to as a single select process).
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SA: Reliability Panel releases draft determination to repeal South Australian 'destructive winds protected event'
SA Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC)
The Reliability Panel has made a draft determination that would revoke the South Australian 'destructive winds protected event', to help maintain power system security and prevent energy customers from having to pay excessive costs as the system transforms. The Panel is satisfied that AEMO will be able to effectively manage the risk of destructive winds in south Australia through the recently revised 'contingency re-classification' framework. The Reliability Panel also considers that based on advice from AEMO there are likely to be no negative consequences from revoking or repealing the SA protected event.
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Hansards
New South Wales
29 JUN 2023: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Community Recognition Statements - Link-Up (NSW) Aboriginal Corporation
29 JUN 2023: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Private Members' Statements - Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council and Liverpool City Council Deed
29 JUN 2023: NSW ASSEMBLY HANSARD: Question Time - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to NSW Parliament
South Australia
06 JUL 2023: SA COUNCIL HANSARD: Question Time - First Nations Voice to Parliament
06 JUL 2023: SA COUNCIL HANSARD: Question Time - Lowitja O'donoghue Oration
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Court Cases
None this edition.
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New Regulations
Federal
Health Insurance (Medicare Benefits Payable in Respect of Screening Services rendered at Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services) Direction 2023 - Health Insurance Act 1973
Notifiable Instrument - F2023N00195
Download
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Proclamations
None this edition.
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Gazette Notices
None this edition.
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Consolidated Legislation
None this edition.
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New Bills
None this edition.
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New Acts
None this edition.
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