Daily news digest July 22
Major Indigenous affairs headlines in Australia today focus on severe national condemnation over new Northern Territory child protection laws, a Federal inquiry into online racism, and the unlawful disturbance of ancestral remains.
NT child protection controversy:
The Northern Territory government has passed controversial child protection laws despite fierce opposition. Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe and First Nations advocates warn the bill will trigger another “Stolen Generation”. Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy stated the laws only “intensify distrust”. In contrast, Jacinta Nampijinpa Price welcomed the bill.
Ancestral remains disturbed:
In South Australia’s Riverland, an unauthorized excavation on a river cliff at Paringa has unlawfully disturbed Aboriginal ancestral remains, triggering local investigations.
Inquiry into online trolling:
A Federal inquiry into racism and hate has heard disturbing testimonies from First Nations people regarding severe online abuse, with some being targeted by vicious online trolls calling for extreme violence.
Political community visits:
Former Prime Minister and current Liberal Party Federal President Tony Abbott announced plans to resume yearly residencies in remote communities, starting with a week-long stay in a remote NT Indigenous community.
Business and community updates
Economic empowerment:
ANZ Bank announced a new partnership with the University of Melbourne’s Dilin Duwa Centre to provide First Nations entrepreneurs with access to the MURRA Indigenous Business Masterclass Program.
Community mental health:
First Nations advocates have highlighted the life-saving work of Elijah Murray’s boxing gym in Fitzroy Crossing, WA, providing critical mental health and community support for local men.
