Welcoming the formation of the new Government, ANTaR hopes that minority Government will lead to better outcomes for Indigenous Australians, wherever they live.

‘ANTaR is really encouraged by the focus brought by the Independents to Indigenous Australia in their negotiations’, said Dr Janet Hunt, ANTaR President.

‘Mr Oakeshott’s recognition that most Indigenous people live in urban, rural and regional areas is a refreshing reminder that Federal Government policy needs to address the needs of all Indigenous Australians, wherever they live.’

“The acknowledgment that Indigenous people have a diverse range of needs, priorities and views should also act as a reminder that governments must consult broadly with Indigenous people in developing policy which affects them.’

‘With nearly half of the Indigenous population living in regional and remote areas, it is hoped that additional investment in services and infrastructure in regional Australia will benefit Indigenous members of these communities.’

The Independents have given further momentum to the call for constitutional recognition of Indigenous Australians, building on the commitments made by Labor, the Coalition and the Greens during the election campaign.

‘There is now broad parliamentary support to bring this long-held aspiration to fruition.’

‘ANTAR urges the Prime Minister to give consideration to designating a Cabinet-level Minister responsible solely for Indigenous Affairs in recognition of the complexity and importance of Indigenous policy issues.’

ANTaR is the pre-eminent non-Indigenous national advocacy organisation dedicated specifically to the rights - and overcoming the disadvantage - of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Media contacts:

Dr Janet Hunt, President – 0408 170 448
Jacqueline Phillips, National Director – 0423 773 395