The Central Land Council today welcomed the Prime Minister’s announcement of more than $1 billion in new measures committed over the next five years towards Closing the Gap outcomes.
CLC chief executive Lesley Turner said that the new funding is a good start.
“This is a welcome step forward to improve the lives of Aboriginal people and communities through a whole-of-government approach in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled partners,” Mr Turner said.
The first implementation plan outlines how the governments will meet 17 new targets under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap after the previous scheme failed.
“We need these updates to keep everyone accountable. We can’t afford another fail on the governments’ report card.”
The funding injection includes a new redress scheme for Stolen Generations survivors in the Northern Territory, the Australian Capital Territory and Jervis Bay Territory.
“We’re pleased to see the Commonwealth take responsibility for the historic injustices that continue to reverberate through families and communities today. This is an important and long overdue step towards meaningful reconciliation,” Mr Turner said.
“We also welcome the additional funds for Aboriginal community controlled health organisations. Aboriginal health services have demonstrated their critical role throughout this pandemic. Further investment is the best way to ensure improved health outcomes for our people.”
The CLC will continue to work with governments and the Coalition of Peaks to ensure that Australia delivers all its targets under the Closing the Gap agreement.
MEDIA CONTACT: Sasha Pavey | 0488 984 885| media@clc.org.au