14 April, 2020
NSW Aboriginal Land Council acknowledges outgoing NSW Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Harwin MLC and welcomes Premier Berejiklian taking on the Aboriginal Affairs portfolio
The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) would like to acknowledge the outgoing NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, the Hon. Don Harwin MLC, for his work with Aboriginal people in the State.
NSWALC enjoyed a positive working relationship with Mr Harwin since his appointment to the portfolio in April 2019.
During this time, Mr Harwin notably oversaw the NSW Government’s contribution to the development of a new National Agreement on Closing the Gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and non-Indigenous Australians.
Mr Harwin’s work with Premier Berejiklian and the NSW Coalition of Aboriginal Peak Organisations (CAPO) to improve Aboriginal educational outcomes with a specific Premier’s Priority, will be an enduring legacy for Mr Harwin and the Premier.
NSWALC Chair Anne Dennis acknowledged Mr Harwin’s direct engagement with Council.
“Mr Harwin was committed to forging a solid relationship with Council by coming to Council to discuss the valuable work NSWALC does,” she said.
“I thank him for his commitment to NSWALC as a peak body and our job in furthering Aboriginal self- determination and the rights and wellbeing of Aboriginal people in NSW.”
Cr Dennis also congratulated the NSW Premier on her decision to take responsibility for the Aboriginal Affairs portfolio.
“I’m very pleased that Premier Berejiklian is continuing her strong support of a range of matters and important issues for Aboriginal people in NSW.”
“I’m certain the Premier’s leadership will assist with delivering improvements in education, housing, health and justice, and reducing the over-representation of Aboriginal children in the state protection system. We know that the most appropriate place for our children is in safe homes with nurturing Aboriginal families. The Premier is best placed to drive change, in partnership with our community controlled peak bodies,” Cr Dennis said.
“I look forward to continuing our positive relationship and having an authoritative voice representing the Land Council Network and Aboriginal Affairs in the NSW Parliament.”