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Malarndirri McCarthy on closing the gap
Feb 24, 2025
Malarndirri McCarthy, the Minister for Indigenous Australians, tackles the sobering findings of the latest Closing the Gap report, where only five of 19 targets show progress. She discusses criticism surrounding the initiative, including calls for its overhaul, and highlights new government funding targeted at remote communities. The conversation covers urgent issues like rising Indigenous incarceration rates, the need for reform in justice systems, and empowering First Nations through job opportunities, particularly for women. McCarthy emphasizes community-driven solutions and aims for a more effective partnership.
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Quick takeaways
- The Closing the Gap initiative has only five of its 19 targets on track, highlighting significant challenges like rising Indigenous incarceration rates.
- Minister Malarndirri McCarthy underscores the need for community engagement and substantial financial investment to effectively address systemic issues affecting Indigenous populations.
Deep dives
Closing the Gap Progress and Criticism
The current status of the Closing the Gap initiative reveals that only five out of 19 targets are making progress, with rising Indigenous incarceration rates being particularly concerning. Critics, including Senator Lydia Thorpe, argue that the program has failed to deliver tangible change and suggest it should be abandoned. In contrast, Indigenous Affairs Minister Melendary McCarthy asserts that while progress is slow, there is movement being made through community engagement and empowerment, especially via local Aboriginal organizations. The Minister emphasizes the need for continued focus and collaboration to identify and address the root causes behind the issues affecting Indigenous communities.
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