What was in the budget for Indigenous Australians?
Labor says the Treasurer’s failure to announce Indigenous funds speaks volumes on the government commitment to Indigenous people. Instead, Government media machines have afterwards provided details on what the Howard Government describes as an increase to Indigenous Affairs by over $87 million to $2.9 billion. Opposition Indigenous Affairs Minister Kerry O’Brien told Kerry Klimm it came as no surprise. Mr O’Brien accuses the Treasurer of failing to explain how getting rid of ATSIC and mainstreaming services will improve conditions. But Labor has welcomed government moves to tackle domestic violence in Indigenous communities. Democrats Indigenous Affairs Spokesman Aden Ridgeway disparages the Budget’s slim pickings for indigenous people – and like the opposition, is suspicious of the government’s motives. Senator Ridgeway outlined his concerns to Trevor Dodds. Reconciliation Australia was one group to benefit, with a $15 million upfront cash injection. Trevor Dodds spoke to Reconciliation Australia Co-Chair Jackie Huggins about the funding boost.