Daily news digest April 18
Indigenous news in Australia today focuses on national inquiries into racism, and ongoing legal battles regarding youth justice and land rights.
National News & Policy
Frontier Wars Recognition:
High-profile advocacy continues for the Australian War Memorial to provide significant coverage of the “spear versus gun” conflict. Indigenous leader Michael Anderson emphasised the need for national recognition of the estimated 10,000+ First Nations people killed in frontier massacres between 1788 and 1930.
National Truth-Telling Trek:
Indigenous leader Travis Lovett has commenced a trek to Canberra. The “Walk for Truth” aims to spark a national conversation and call for federal government support for a formal truth-telling process.
NDIS Risks:
A report published in The Saturday Paper highlights concerns that changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may disproportionately put First Nations lives at risk, with critics arguing the changes were not adequately co-designed with the community.
Police Accountability:
Following recent incidents, including an off-duty officer’s use of force against a 13-year-old girl, the Commissioner for Aboriginal Children and legal services continue to call for structural reforms to address systemic violence and state criminalisation.
Regional News & Events
Western Australia:
Ongoing concerns regarding Aboriginal deaths in custody were highlighted during a recent vigil at Bandyup prison.
Cultural Burning:
The Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council is hosting events focused on traditional cultural burning practices and land management.
Northern Territory:
Updates indicate successful renegotiations of the 99-year lease for Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, expected to double revenue share for Anangu Traditional Owners.
