Indigenous Rights: Special Rapporteur Releases Report on Country Visit to Australia

The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the human rights of Indigenous people has released a key report on the severe disadvantage suffered by Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The Special Rapporteur’s report focuses on the need for the Australian Government to ensure that Aboriginal people are included in decision making about matters that affect them.  The report highlights that Government laws and policies must advance the right of self determination and respect the important aspects of Aboriginal culture and way of life.

The reports makes 37 conclusions and recommendations, including in areas relating to:

  • legal and policy framework;
  • lands, territories and resources;
  • overcoming Aboriginal disadvantage, including in relation to health, education, employment and housing;
  • the protection of Aboriginal women, children and families;
  • administration of justice;
  • Aboriginal organisations and management; and
  • the Northern Territory Intervention.

The report follows an official visit to Australia by the United Nations independent expert in August 2009.  The Special Rapporteur’s report will be tabled at the UN Human Rights Council in September this year.

Click here for a copy of the HRLRC's media release.

 

MichelleBennettUnited Nations, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Peoples' Rights