Daily news digest February 10

Today’s key Indigenous news in Australia features a major national policy launch and significant legal developments

National Policy & Government

National Plan to End Violence:
The Government has launched the “Our Ways – Strong Ways – Our Voices” plan. This is Australia’s first standalone national plan (2026–2036) specifically designed to address the disproportionate rates of violence against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and children.

IPA Program Shift:
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has announced it will take full responsibility for the Indigenous Protected Areas (IPA) program starting April 1, 2026, transitioning from a shared management model with the NIAA.

Voice Nominations:
In South Australia, today marks the closing of nominations for the State’s First Nations Voice to Parliament, with the election set to coincide with upcoming state polls.

Justice & Legal

Groundwater Rights Case:
The High Court of Australia is scheduled to hear its first-ever case regarding Aboriginal groundwater rights, a landmark moment for First Nations water sovereignty.

Prone Restraints Study:
A new study has highlighted that Indigenous people are held in prone restraints for significantly longer periods while in custody compared to non-Indigenous people.

Community & Environment

Clean Energy Guide:
The First Nations Clean Energy Network has launched a new guide focused on First Nations co-ownership and equity in clean energy projects.

Agriculture in Broome:
A new agricultural training program for youth, grounded in culture and community values, has commenced on Yawuru Country.