The Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC) acknowledges the Crisafulli Government’s decision, announced yesterday by the Hon Fiona Simpson, Minister for Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, and Multiculturalism, to repeal the Path to Treaty Act 2023 and redirect funding to Indigenous communities.
QAIHC remains committed to working collaboratively with the government to address the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
QAIHC Chairman, Mr. Matthew Cooke, recognised the deep hurt and disappointment that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people would feel following this decision.
However, he noted, “Premier Crisafulli made his intention to repeal the Path to Treaty Act explicitly clear before the 2024 Queensland State Election.”
Mr. Cooke added, “On the back of the failed Voice referendum, the decision to repeal the Path to Treaty Act will be a bitter pill to swallow for our people.
“But let’s be clear: successive governments have failed to engage effectively with issues of constitutional and legal recognition.
“Had the Palaszczuk and Miles Labor Governments been serious about the Path to Treaty, the now-repealed Act would have been enacted as a priority early in their term of office.
“We can’t now rage at Premier Crisafulli for honouring an election commitment. We will be pragmatic.
“QAIHC is prepared to work with Minister Simpson, Minister Nicholls, and, indeed, the Premier, to identify and implement practical local reforms that will improve the health and well-being of Indigenous Queenslanders.”
QAIHC reiterated its commitment to constitutional and legal recognition of Indigenous Australians, including treaty, truth-telling, and reconciliation processes.
However, Mr. Cooke emphasised the importance of focusing on immediate opportunities: “Yesterday’s decision creates a significant opportunity to work with the Crisafulli Government to achieve real outcomes for Indigenous communities.
“It is not an opportunity we can walk past out of anger and frustration.”
The Crisafulli Government has indicated its intention to prioritise direct funding to address pressing issues in Indigenous communities, such as housing, education, health, and employment.
When meeting with senior LNP leaders before the 2024 State election, QAIHC was clear that practical evidence-based programs and investments which address the social determinants of health for Indigenous people and communities would be essential for Queensland to Close the Gap.
The Crisafulli Government’s plans to redirect Path to Treaty funds to improve the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Queensland through partnership with local communities is consistent with this aim.
Mr. Cooke stated, “If the government is genuine in this, we will work with them.”
Looking forward, Mr. Cooke remarked, “There will come a day in our future when governments and ordinary Australians realise the need to engage in meaningful processes that seek to address historical injustices, heal the generational trauma we continue to suffer, and truly recognise Australia’s First Nations peoples.
“I hope that day comes in my lifetime.
“Until then, QAIHC will work constructively with this government and future governments to achieve practical reforms to improve the health and wellbeing of Indigenous Queenslanders.”
(-ENDS-)
Media contact
Samantha Townsend
Communication Manager
E: samantha.townsend@qaihc.com.au
M: 0417 080 203
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