N T legislation on its own unlikely to succeed - Abp

Thursday, 9 Aug 2007

Church leader expresses concern about emergency Commonwealth legislation to be imposed on NT Aborigines

The number one rule of any community project - be it in the City of Whitehorse, Rwanda or Alice Springs - is community participation and consultation.

Anglican Archbishop of Melbourne, Dr Philip Freier, has expressed concern about the news that the Federal Government is planning to force through legislation which will radically impact Northern Territory Aborigines.

"The developing world has many examples of failed projects having been undertaken by governments and agencies with good will, but with no thought to the specific needs and wants of the local community," Dr Freier said.

"Whilst it is to be commended that the Government is showing real determination to stop child abuse, legislation by itself without the involvement of Aboriginal people is unlikely to succeed."

"I have great respect for Aboriginal people, and most of them are appalled by the chronic drinking and abuse by the few. In fact, anyone who encounters disadvantage of Aboriginal people and issues of child abuse is properly horrified and is keen to address it."

Dr Freier believes that despite our current impressions, there are many positive things happening in Northern Territory communities. Regional health boards, with strong representation by Aboriginal people, are good models to study.

Programs that address education, safety, alcohol and drug addiction and health must come out of a high degree of cooperation with Aboriginal people, who have their own aspirations and desires for life.

"I urge the government to talk to Territorian Aborigines, to hear their thoughts on ways of resolving the current problems."

Dr Freier concluded: "Quarantining welfare payments with no right of appeal . compulsory acquisition of traditional land without community discussion or planning . forcing through legislation without giving all relevant stakeholders time to digest and respond to its contents . these are not part of a democratic society. Our Indigenous communities deserve better."

https://http://www.melbourne.anglican.com.au/main.php?pg=news&news_id=9712&s=1472