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Wednesday 07 August 2002, Media Release

NSWALC URGES: VOTE FOR MOST CAPABLE CANDIDATES

The New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council today called on capable and committed individuals, including more young people and women, to stand for the ATSIC elections on October 19.

"The Land Council would like to see Aboriginal people in NSW vote for candidates who they know are committed to and involved in their local communities and not seeking election for personal gain," Chairperson of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, Rod Towney said.

"The problems Aboriginal people face, especially in education, healthcare and housing, require a new approach, unfortunately many of those elected don't have the ability to take ATSIC in the direction that is needed.

"ATSIC needs to be more effective. There has also been a lot of criticism in the community about its failure to appropriately tackle issues such as domestic violence and alcohol abuse head-on. This can only be done when the people elected to ATSIC have a proven track record of delivering for Aboriginal people."

Chairperson Towney encouraged the NSW Aboriginal community to ensure they use their vote in NSW to elect representatives who have both the commitment and the skills necessary to perform the job.

"ATSIC Councilors and Commissioners must have a strong understanding of the issues facing Koori people in this State and be willing to work in partnership with the Land Council and other Aboriginal community organisations," Chairman Towney said.

"If the right people are elected as ATSIC Councilors and Commissioners, real gains can be made in achieving self-determination for our people."