Daily news digest March 26

News in Indigenous affairs today features significant developments in land rights, health initiatives, and community safety.

Key News Highlights

NSW Land Rights Pause:
The NSW government has temporarily shelved planned changes to the management of Crown land following a strong backlash from Indigenous advocates.

Death in Custody:
A coronial report is being prepared following the death of a young Aboriginal man in Darwin after he was taken into police custody.

Native Food Industry:
Experts are calling for commercial companies to stop exploiting Indigenous native food knowledge as the industry continues to grow.

New Culture Capital Podcast:
A new podcast, Culture Capital, launched today on the BlakCast network. Its early episodes feature Indigenous advocate Linda Burney, discussing workplace culture and leadership accountability.

First Nations Justice Disparities: A new body has been established in Victoria to address disparities in the justice system for First Nations people.

Community & Health

Hygiene Education:
In Yarrabah, a landmark community soap and refill program is being used to combat Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD).

National Strategy:
A new strategy has been launched to move First Nations women’s voices from consultation into direct decision-making roles in national policy.

Indigenous Children’s Advocacy:
Advocates have gathered in Canberra to push for the formal establishment of a national advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

Cyclone Narelle:
Tropical Cyclone Narelle has reformed at sea, threatening further flooding in Katherine and the WA coast after causing significant damage across northern Australia.

Aboriginal Cricket:
Two senior cricketers from Moree are travelling to New Zealand to represent Australia in the Aboriginal over-50s squad

Kiama Heritage Signage:
New signage was unveiled in Kiama (NSW) yesterday to honour Dharawal cultural heritage, marking an important step in local recognition.