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Inquiry Report
Chief Minister Clare Martin has been given the final report of the Board of Inquiry into the Protection of Aboriginal Children from Sexual Abuse.
“This is a landmark report that will sadly expose great pain and unhappiness for many people,” Ms Martin said.
“It is clear that not enough has been done to tackle the abuse of Aboriginal children.
“We must recognise that as long as the abuse of children continues to occur, it diminishes us all.
“I commit the Government to implementing the key action areas of this report and getting on with the job of tackling this deeply disturbing issue.
“The report makes it perfectly clear that the NT Government, the Federal Government and Aboriginal Communities must work together to achieve change.
“It is only through a genuine partnership that we will succeed in lifting the veil of silence that so often surrounds this issue.
“I will table the report in Parliament next week and the Government will provide its full response to the report in the August Sittings of Parliament.
“I accept that the Government will be measured, in part at least, by our response.
“Many of the recommendations build on work being undertaken by the NT Government – in particular, measures to tackle alcohol and substance abuse, and improved education.
“We’ve introduced tough alcohol restrictions in places like
“We have Aboriginal children in remote communities graduating from secondary school for the first time, but more needs to be done and we will do it.
“The report recommends improved reporting mechanisms and relationships between Family and Community Services and Police – work has started on that – and will continue.
“I endorse the call by the inquiry for a more extensive education and information campaign about sexual abuse.
“I intend to take that campaign further than the recommendations and examine even more initiatives.
“Following recommendations from the report, and in conjunction with work the Government was already doing, amendments to the Bail Act have been drafted.
“The drafting of the Care and Protection of Children Bill is almost complete.
“The Government has also committed to introduce an education campaign around the negative effects of pornography in remote communities.
“Next week the Parliament will debate the Evidence of Children Amendment Bill which will make it easier for child victims of alleged sexual abuse to give evidence in court.
“Extensive research into the effect of gambling will lead to an improved treatment and counselling program for Aboriginal people.
“I would like to place on record my thanks to the Inquiry co-chairs, Pat Anderson and Rex Wild QC
“It is encouraging that Ms Anderson and Mr Wild also make the point that there is hope for safe, happy generations of Aboriginal children if serious attention is given to the Inquiry’s findings and appropriate steps are taken to help communities.
“We all share those wishes.”
Media Contact: Richard O’Leary 040111 9586
