16 March 2017

Aboriginal people must drive efforts to Close the Gap

Further progress to Close the Gap can be made if Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are able to drive change, the Chair of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) Roy Ah-See said today.

Cr Ah-See said it was vital to keep governments engaged in efforts to Close the Gap on appalling health outcomes.

"Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can expect to live 10 to 17 years younger than other Australians and the data on preventable illness and infant mortality is an appalling reminder of the challenges we face.

"The inequalities in health are a generational challenge and we have to continue the fight because the lives of our children depend on it.

"Positive change is possible - particularly when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations are driving those changes.

"Solutions that are generated by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are a key part of any efforts to Close the Gap on health and living standards in Australia."

Media contact: Andrew Williams 0429 585 291