The Wire

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are 13 times more likely to be imprisoned than non-indigenous AustraliansThis can cause both mental and physical health issues. But according to the medical association of Australia these health issues, like substance abuse disorders, and cognitive disabilities, are whats pushing people into prisons in the first place. The Australian Medical Association is recommending a national target for ‘closing the gap’ , but Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Nigel Scullion says a target is not the way to go.