NSW Parliament to recognise Indigenous Australians (ABC News)

07 Sep NSW Parliament to recognise Indigenous Australians (ABC News)

Indigenous leaders will gather at the New South Wale Parliament today for the introduction of a new bill recognising Aboriginal people as the first people in the state.

Premier Kristina Keneally has described the legislation as historic.

She will introduce the bill to amend the New South Wales Constitution so that it acknowledges and honours Aboriginal people as the traditional custodians of the land.

A smoking ceremony will be held at Parliament House followed by an Indigenous performance.

The Government has consulted several advocates for Aboriginal people on the wording of the amendment, which includes recognition that the Indigenous people have made, and continue to make, a unique contribution to New South Wales.

It also includes a clause saying the changes do not give rise to compensation claims.

The first Aboriginal woman elected to State Parliament, Linda Burney says the bill is an important step in the recognition of the first nation status of Aboriginal people.

She says the change also has great personal significance. …Go to article.