The St Vincent de Paul Society in Australia says it “recognises the past and present injustices experienced by First Nations people” and will “continue to work for legal reforms and the progressing of the Uluru Statement from the Heart”.
“Mindful of the theme Bridging Now to Next, the society celebrates the deep, abiding pride that First Nations peoples have in their diverse cultures, and we greatly value the contributions they make to Australian society,” Mark Gaetani, the society’s national president, said.
“A significant number of those people we assist are First Nations, the national average being around 40 per cent, with more than 90 per cent in the Northern Territory. Our members see the challenges they face first-hand and do their very best to help, but a range of structural issues needs addressing,” Mr Gaetani said.
He said the Society had a long history of working with, and for, First Nations people and was committed to providing employment and procurement opportunities, particularly through Reconciliation Action Plans.
Mr Gaetani said in the lead-up to May 3 federal election, the society had called for federal leadership to progress the Uluru Statement, for full implementation of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, and for increased community-led programs and services that support justice reinvestment and keep children safe.
“We were heartened to hear Prime Minister Albanese say in his election acceptance speech that his government will support reconciliation with First Nations people because we will be a stronger nation when we close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians,” he said.
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First Nations Australians deserve a better future (St Vincent de Paul Society)
