New long-term strategy for Aboriginal people a step closer

The McGowan Government is encouraging Aboriginal people to help shape the State’s long-term plan to improve social, economic, health and cultural outcomes for Aboriginal people, with a new discussion paper now open for public comment.

Developed in collaboration with the Western Australian Aboriginal Advisory Council and a range of Aboriginal organisations, A Path Forward: Developing the Western Australian Government’s Aboriginal Empowerment Strategy is a discussion paper that outlines measures to strengthen co-ordination, co-operation and accountability. This will make it easier to see where progress is being made and where Government needs to direct more effort.

While there are already a range of relevant strategies, policies and plans in place across several agencies, this is the first time a whole-of-government approach has been developed, providing a clear, common direction across the public sector.

The strategy identifies six key areas:

• Putting culture at the centre;
• Bringing decisions closer to communities;
• Enabling Aboriginal-led solutions;
• Investing more in preventative and early-intervention initiatives;
• Boosting economic opportunities; and
• Building cultural understanding and respect. 

The discussion paper is available at https://www.wa.gov.au and is open for public comment until February 28, 2020.

The strategy is expected to be finalised in 2020.

As stated by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt:

“This is a long-term strategy and for it to be successful, it’s vital that it is shaped by those who will be most affected by it.

“About 100 Aboriginal organisations have already been involved and I thank those who provided feedback. It’s important we hear from even more Aboriginal people and others in our community. Share your views, priorities and aspirations and tell us what you think of the main ideas, the language used and if there is anything else we should consider.

“By having your say, we can develop a long-term strategy that has the entire State Government working with Aboriginal communities towards a common goal, to improve the lives of Aboriginal people.”