Its important that a NSW Labor Government continues to build on the existing relationship with the NSW Aboriginal community to achieve lasting generational change. These are some of Labors policies to better support Aboriginal communities:

FLYING THE ABORIGINAL FLAG ON THE HARBOUR BRIDGE

For 40 years, the Aboriginal flag has flown as a proud symbol for Indigenous Australians. A Daley Labor Government will fly the Aboriginal flag with the flags of Australia and New South Wales on the Harbour Bridge.

APPOINT AN ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS ADVOCATE FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

The Advocate will be a voice for Aboriginal children in Government policy and legislation and will work side by side with the Advocate for Children and Young People. Labor will work with Aboriginal communities to develop the role, determine its focus and make sure that it is Aboriginal-led to empower Aboriginal communities.

REINSTATE TRADITIONAL BURNING PRACTICES

Expanding traditionalburningpractices will open up country for the local Aboriginal community and restore the traditional forest structure. These programs will create employment and training opportunities for Aboriginal communities.

ADOPT THE PRINCIPLES OF JUSTICE REINVESTMENT

A strategy that aims to reduce incarceration rates and improve social outcomes by directing resources into communities with high rates of imprisonment. Labor will deliver $4.5 million over four years to fund three pilot programs, which will be delivered through NGOs, and deliver a coordinating authority.

FUND THE NSW ABORIGINAL EDUCATION CONSULTATIVE GROUP (AECG)

The AECG is a not for profit Aboriginal organisation that provides advice on all matters relevant to education and training. Labor will deliver $4 million of additional money over four years which will enable the organisation to increase its participation in developing and supporting Aboriginal education across NSW.

SECURE THE FUTURE OF THE GIRLS ACADEMY

Provide $3.9 million in funding over four years to secure the future of the Girls Academy, a program focused on increasing school attendance and retention rates. Currently, the Clontarf Foundation, an organisation which provides education and life skills programs to Aboriginal boys and young men, is receiving government funding. The Liberals and Nationals have failed to provide funding for a similar program for girls and women.



(Authorised by Kaila Murnain, Australian Labor Party (NSW Branch), 9/377 Sussex Street, Sydney 2000)