STA welcomes today’s Closing the Gap statement reporting to the nation on the scale of the task ahead to deliver equality, justice and reconciliation.
Our hearts are with the Stolen Generations and their families who carry the continuing pain and loss of removal. It is heartening to see many will finally receive formal redress under the new scheme announced today.
The new implementation plan also directs crucial new investments to help Close The Gap in education for First Nations kids – right from the earliest years of life.
“There’s still a very long way to go to Close the Gap, but today’s Closing the Gap statement sets goals developed in partnership with First Nations community leaders. Such partnerships are key to effective, accountable and transparent policy that is evidence-based,” said STA Chief Executive Officer Misha Schubert.
“It is particularly crucial to invest to ensure First Nations children can access quality education from the earliest years of life, and are supported through their school years and into tertiary education.”
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are Australia’s First Scientists. We strongly support action that boosts education attainment, which is crucial to nurture the next generations of First Nations science leaders.”
“It is a watershed moment to see financial redress for members of the Stolen Generations in the territories – and for survivors to receive a personal apology. Truth-telling, compassion, and compensation are crucial to healing.”
Media contact: Martyn Pearce – martyn.pearce@sta.org.au / 0432 606 828
