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Friday February 22 2008, Media Release

NSW ABORIGINAL LAND COUNCIL WELCOMES NEW ERA IN ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS

“The Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, and Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, have foreshadowed a productive new era of informed consent for Aboriginal people in their dealings with the Commonwealth government.

“The NSW Aboriginal Land Council welcomes Mr Rudd’s public comments following his visit to Aboriginal people in Walgett and his acknowledgement that there is no single solution to the problems in Aboriginal housing and infrastructure.

“Statements by both Mr Rudd and Ms Macklin, today and since they were elected foreshadow a new era of co-operation between Aboriginal people and the Commonwealth.

“We are seeing the beginnings of a productive era of informed consent for Aboriginal people in their dealings with the Commonwealth on policies and programs to improve housing and infrastructure in Aboriginal communities.

“To take such a comprehensive view, as Mr Rudd has demonstrated by acknowledging the need for so many different housing models, clearly indicates he and his government will listen to communities and tailor policy responses and funding according to local and regional needs.

“It is clear that Mr Rudd has made his first visit of many to Aboriginal communities.

“This is a refreshing change given the former Prime Minister John Howard visited so few in more than a decade of power.

“It is a clear message that consultation with affected communities is a major priority for the Prime Minister in stark contrast to his predecessor.

“Our job in NSW is to assist in that process and ensure we prove wrong those who believe consultation leads to paralysis.”

Bev Manton
NSWALC Chairperson

22 February 2008
Further information: Paul Molloy (02) 6124 3562 / 0419 690 926