Daily news digest January 28
Major Indigenous news today, 28 January, centres on the aftermath of Invasion Day rallies and a brewing political controversy in the Northern Territory.
Top News Stories
Controversy over NT Administrator:
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has ruled out blocking the appointment of incoming NT Administrator David Connolly, despite the emergence of past social media posts described by Indigenous leaders as “racist” and “reprehensible”.
The appointment of David Connolly as NT Administrator has been crticised.
Perth Rally Attack Investigation:
Senator Lidia Thorpe and rally organisers are calling for a “decisive response” to the attempted bombing at the Boorloo (Perth) rally on January 26. WA Police are currently investigating if the incident, involving a device filled with shrapnel, should be classified as an act of terrorism.
Mandatory National Anthem in NT Schools: The Northern Territory government has issued a new directive requiring public school students to sing both verses of the national anthem at assemblies to “restore national pride,” a move that has sparked debate regarding its impact on First Nations students.
Abalone Charges Dropped: In New South Wales, police have withdrawn all charges against seven Aboriginal men from the South Coast who were accused of illegal abalone trafficking, after they argued the harvest was for cultural needs.
Community & Culture
One Day Celebrations:
While January 26 is the official national day, several local councils, including Fremantle, Darebin, and Yarra, chose to hold “One Day” events today, January 28, as a more inclusive alternative out of respect for First Nations people.
New Brand Launch:
Today marks the official launch of Banksia Nean, a new First Nations footwear brand.
Recognition:
Denise Andrews was named the Community Citizen of the Year for the Shire of Derby–West Kimberley.
Health & Legal Developments
Medical Training in NT:
A new medical centre has opened in the Northern Territory with a specific focus on training First Nations people to become doctors to serve their own communities.
NSW Land Claims: The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) is calling for urgent reforms to the land rights system to address “administrative inertia” after submitting its 60,000th claim.
