Independent MP Andrew Wilkie criticized the government for neglecting Indigenous issues a year after the failed Voice referendum. According to Wilkie, the latest Productivity Commission report shows that only five of the 19 Closing the Gap targets are on track, with some moving backward. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton both pledged to improve the lives of Indigenous people after the referendum’s defeat. However, Wilkie stated that Indigenous issues have been largely ignored by the current government and its predecessors, focusing instead on other matters like the cost of living and energy policies. Wilkie called on the government to listen to and empower First Nations peoples in decision-making processes and prioritize funding for essential services.
Minister Malarndirri McCarthy aimed for bipartisan efforts in closing the gap, while opposition counterpart Jacinta Price criticized the lack of a backup plan post-referendum. Reconciliation Australia highlighted the need for continued advocacy for Indigenous rights and truth-telling. Despite the referendum’s failure, support for Indigenous self-determination remains strong among the Australian population. Ipsos survey in May 2024 indicated that 78% of Australians believe First Nations people should have a say in political decisions that affect them.
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