Indigenous news digest January 16
Indigenous news for January 16, features significant legislative debates, upcoming brand launches, and community-led events ahead of January 26.
Legislative & Policy Developments
Discrimination Bill Protections:
Academics from the Centre for Indigenous People and Work (CIPW) are calling on the Federal government to expand protections for First Nations people within the proposed Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism Bill 2026. They argue that without intersectional safeguards, the bill may fail to address the specific racism and discrimination faced by Indigenous Australians.
Youth Detention Transfers Condemned:
The Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre (TAC) is strongly condemning a government decision to transfer Aboriginal youth from the Ashley Youth Detention Centre to an adult prison facility.
Heritage Site Protection:
There is ongoing legal focus on the protection of Aboriginal relics. A construction company recently pleaded guilty to interfering with relics at a site in southern Tasmania without a permit.
Net Zero Concerns:
Former Senator Hollie Hughes has criticised the Labor government, claiming that Indigenous concerns have been deprioritised within the current net zero agenda.
The South Australian Museum in Adelaide.
Justice System Concerns:
Indigenous legal groups continue to warn that the proposed “Street Gangs Bill” in South Australia risks criminalising Aboriginal children for life by allowing the Youth Court to impose control orders similar to those used for motorcycle gangs.
Repatriation Efforts:
The South Australian Museum is ongoing with its commitment to repatriate remains of more than 4,500 Aboriginal people. Recent ceremonies have seen Kaurna ancestral remains returned and laid to rest in Adelaide’s north.
Native Title Claims:
Debate continues in Victoria over the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people’s native title claim filed for Melbourne and its surrounds in late 2025. While Premier Jacinta Allan has described it as a positive step, some critics have raised concerns about its impact on land management.
Culture & Community Events
January 26 Rallies:
New South Wales police have indicated that Invasion Day rallies may still proceed despite new anti-protest laws. While current declarations allow for public assembly restrictions following a recent security incident, officials stated these measures are not intended to stop free speech.
“Mourning in the Morning”:
The Australia Day Council of South Australia has announced that the 2026 program will begin with a First Nations-led ceremony at Tarntanya Wama (Elder Park). The event will feature a smoking ceremony by Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner and a keynote address by eminent barrister Anthony McEvoy SC.
Bullanginya Dreaming:
This evening, an outdoor multimedia experience titled Bullanginya Dreaming is running in Barooga, NSW. Created with Bangerang artists, it uses light installations to tell stories of Indigenous heritage and land connection.
Public Art:
New murals of palawa women in downtown Hobart are fostering discussions on pride and the visibility of Indigenous history.
The Bogong’s Song:
A theatrical performance for children exploring connection to Country is being held today at PHIVE in Parramatta Square.
Elders Olympics:
Preparations are underway for the Aboriginal Elders Olympics to be held on Yaegl Country.
Fashion & Media
Banksia Nean Launch:
Proud Barunggam and Kamilaroi designer Banks Nean is preparing to launch her contemporary footwear brand. The brand features designs that incorporate Indigenous art into statement heels.
AI Controversy:
News has surfaced regarding a social media account featuring an “Aboriginal Steve Irwin” character, which has been revealed as an AI-generated persona created in New Zealand, sparking discussions about “AI blackface”.
- See our Opinion page for full story
Music & Festivals
First Nations artist:
Djanaba released her first single of 2026, an electronic-pop track titled “Buster”.
St Kilda Festival First Peoples First Lineup:
A massive lineup of First Nations artists has been announced for the 20th anniversary of First Peoples First at the St Kilda Festival. The event, scheduled for February 14, will feature 2025 ARIA Award winner BARKAA, alongside Drifting Clouds, Naarm singer-songwriter Ruby Mae, Selve, and The Terrifying Lows.
St Kilda Festival will feature a number of First Nations artists.
Social Issues & Regional Reports
Youth Suicide Crisis:
Leaders in the Kimberley region are calling for the release of progress reports on youth suicide recommendations, expressing concern that “caretaker mode” has stalled critical updates.
Justice Groups Delay:
Reports indicate that a majority of planned Northern Territory Aboriginal justice groups have yet to be established despite a looming 2027 deadline.
Mark Haines Inquest:
Today marks the anniversary of the 1988 death of Gomeroi teenager Mark Haines, whose body was found on train tracks near Tamworth. The case remains a focal point for calls for justice, with recent coronial inquests examining evidence of police racism and potential foul play.
