ANTaR welcomes the special COAG meeting devoted to Closing the Gap on Indigenous disadvantage taking place in Darwin. ANTaR President, Dr Janet Hunt, said:

“ANTaR appreciates the attention the Federal and State Governments are giving to Indigenous affairs through the COAG process. They have years of neglect to overcome and a big task is ahead, but the fact that they are giving this area of policy national attention is to be warmly welcomed.”

Flawed and inadequate consultation with Aboriginal communities remains a key concern at the second anniversary of the Northern Territory Emergency Intervention, according to ANTaR (Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation).

“The lack of significant improvements resulting from of the intervention measures and the continuing concerns and opposition from affected communities, demand that fundamental changes are made to the Australian Government’s approach in the Northern Territory”, ANTaR spokesperson, David Cooper said.

The announcement of the appointment of Warren Snowdon to the new portfolio for Indigenous Health, Rural and Regional Health and Regional Services Delivery is welcome, says Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation spokesperson, Sally Fitzpatrick.

'We offer Mr Snowdon our wholehearted congratulations. Mr Snowdon has clearly demonstrated his commitment to Aboriginal people in the many years he has served in the Northern Territory and will be a formidable advocate.