Daily news digest February 18
Indigenous news in Australia for today highlights significant reports on systemic racism in higher education and a major legal ruling regarding medical service governance.
National & Social Affairs
Racism in Universities Report:
The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Corporation (NATSIEC) has called for urgent national action following the Racism@Uni final report. The data reveals that over 80% of First Nations respondents experienced racism in universities, leading to calls for a fundamental redesign of institutional curriculum and governance.
Medical Service Governance Ruling:
The Federal Court found that the board of the South West Aboriginal Medical Service (SWAMS) engaged in “oppressive conduct” and used factional control to expel certain members.
Literacy Partnership Extension:
Australia Post announced an extension of its partnership with the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, continuing support for book delivery to remote communities.
Legal & Justice Updates
Warning of Rising Deaths in Custody:
The Aboriginal Legal Service (ALS) NSW/ACT has issued an urgent warning regarding an “unprecedented risk” of First Nations deaths in custody in NSW.
Native Title Consultation:
The NSW Government is entering a critical phase of consultation for its new native title policy, with sessions scheduled for various groups throughout February and March 2026.
Cultural Fishing Rights:
Advocates continue to pressure the NSW Government to cease the prosecution of native title holders following recent legal developments regarding cultural fishing.
Clinical Trial Artwork:
A new Aboriginal artwork has been unveiled to strengthen cultural connection within the Rural, Regional, and Remote Clinical Trial in Aboriginal communities across NSW and the ACT.
Sports & Culture
Māori and Indigenous All Stars:
A draw in the recent All Stars match is being celebrated as a powerful statement of identity and pride for both First Nations and Māori communities.
AFL Leadership Appointments:
St Kilda young stars Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera and Marcus Windhager have been officially selected as club leaders for the 2026 season.
NRL Player Safety & Advocacy:
Former star Timana Tahu spoke out today, arguing that the responsibility for combating racism in sport should not rest solely on the shoulders of the players.
Regional News
Victoria:
Following a major native title win for the Millewa-Mallee peoples in late 2025, focus remains on the Aboriginal Water Entitlements Program. While land rights have been secured, Traditional Owners are still navigating complex state permits to use water for economic development.
Tasmania:
The Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre has recently reaffirmed its opposition to renewed proposals for a zipline on Mount Wellington, emphasizing the mountain’s spiritual and cultural significance to the Palawa people.
Queensland:
Indigenous youth leaders are increasingly taking roles in defending the Great Barrier Reef, focusing on traditional owner management and environmental sustainability.
NSW:
Consultation for the NSW Government’s new native title policy has commenced, with meetings scheduled for native title groups throughout February and March 2026.
South Australia:
Telstra InfraCo is under investigation for an alleged environmental breach involving “unauthorised clearing” near the Koonalda Caves Track in the Nullarbor Wilderness Protection Area. The incident has sparked concerns among First Nations communities regarding the spread of buffel grass on culturally significant land.
NT:
NT Police are continuing to investigate the death of a 27-year-old man following an altercation on Galiwin’ku on February 14. A 19-year-old man previously arrested in relation to the stabbing was released without charge as investigations continue.
WA:
Traditional Owners remain in discussions with Rio Tinto regarding the rehabilitation of the Argyle diamond mine site in the East Kimberley.
