27 March 2015

People power results in reinstatement of ALS funding

The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) has welcomed the Australian Government's decision to reverse planned Federal Budget cuts to Aboriginal Legal Services.

The Land Council network was deeply concerned about the devastating impact of these cuts on some of the most vulnerable people.

We are relieved that the Australian Government has listened to the widespread opposition to the planned cuts.

The reinstatement of funding is recognition of the dedication of front-line workers in Aboriginal legal services who are committed to keeping our children safe and breaking a cycle that too often sees kids ending up in the juvenile justice system and on to adult prisons.

NSWALC joined many other concerned organisations and individuals in opposing the Budget cuts and the impact this would have on the Aboriginal Legal Service NSW/ACT.

At a time when more children are being removed from their parents than during the Stolen Generation, government commitments to close the gap must be backed by more than political goodwill and be appropriately resourced to make long-term positive change in consultation with Aboriginal communities.