Statement on the dissolution of ATSIC
22 October 2004
The Salvation Army believes that the reality of indigenous marginalisation is a national crisis. We advocate that there must be a formal process by which Australia’s indigenous voice can be heard and respected. It is imperative that we provide opportunities to hear the voice of the powerless, and build policy that engages in a journey toward self-determination; this is the right of any and every Australian citizen.
We acknowledge that there is an inequality in the standards of health and well-being amongst the citizens of Australia (Aborigines have a higher death rate than Caucasian Australians in every age group, and die mostly of preventable diseases). This is also recognised by the political parties who make numerous promises of money and policy, but this will only ease the symptoms.
We do not disagree with the decision to dissolve the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Commission (ATSIC), but there must be provision made to respect the indigenous voice. Returning to a policy of assimilation (mainstreaming) is not the answer. Throwing money at indigenous health issues only serves to provide expensive band-aids to hide the symptoms.
A policy of self-determination is the single most powerful promise a government could make in the journey toward a reconciled Australian society. “If you want significant, sustainable improvement in the daily lives of indigenous citizens and indigenous communities, begin by putting substantive decision-making power in indigenous hands” (Stephen Cornell, Professor of Sociology)
The Salvation Army believes that Government must create policy that allows people to take power and responsibility over their own affairs. People must be empowered to participate in their own destiny, and determine their own path: it is only in engaging with all Australians that this, our amazingly multicultural nation will fulfil its potential.
Major Brad Halse, Communications Director
The Salvation Army Australia Southern Territory
Phone: (03) 8878 2406 Mobile: 0417 537 950
