Minor miracle as indigenous policy rates a rare mention (National Times)

11 Aug Minor miracle as indigenous policy rates a rare mention (National Times)

Labor’s commitment to recognition is welcome. But is that all there is?

ON SUNDAY at Gulkula in north-east Arnhem Land, a small miracle occurred. Indigenous Affairs Minister Jenny Macklin announced plans to implement the government’s earlier promise of constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples if re-elected.

In an election otherwise utterly devoid of policy addressing indigenous interests, this was an extraordinary moment.

In fact, there had been no mention of indigenous policy by either major party. Around the country, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have expressed their frustration that, yet again, their needs and interests have been overlooked.

So the weekend’s announcement was both wonderful and long overdue. Macklin revealed plans to convene a bipartisan panel of experts, including indigenous leaders, constitutional law experts and members of the public, who would be asked to develop a proposal to put to the Australian people in a referendum. The opposition has supported the move. As Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Mick Gooda said, indigenous people around Australia have been calling for such recognition ”forever”. … Go to article.