More than 140,000 people across Australia today will remind political leaders of their commitment to close the gap in health inequality, as critical Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health funding is due to expire.
Today’s passing of the Act of Recognition Bill through the House of Representatives is an historic moment for the nation and a great show of multi-party resolve to hold a referendum, according to Oxfam Australia.
Australians are being urged to get behind National Close the Gap Day and register an event for Thursday 21 March.
The Close the Gap campaign says three crucial commitments this year will make or break the achievement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander health equality by 2030.
The Prime Minister will today deliver her report to parliament on progress towards closing the gap.
Today’s parliamentary speeches from the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader offer an unparalleled opportunity for all political parties to restate their commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health equality.
Oxfam Australia has welcomed the Prime Minister’s announcement of a September election, saying it hopes the certainty will ensure leaders focus on issues to help the poorest and most vulnerable, in Australia and overseas.
The Close the Gap Campaign Steering Committee today called on the Federal Government to maintain Indigenous health funding, in its submission to the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan.
Today’s introduction of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Recognition Bill into Parliament is an opportunity to build on the political consensus towards a referendum in the next term of government, Oxfam Australia said today.
Oxfam has congratulated Dr Tom Calma, founder of the Close the Gap Campaign, on being awarded ACT Australian of the Year today.
Signs of Coalition support for an Act of Recognition Bill acknowledging Indigenous Australians in the Constitution were a step forward on the path to a referendum, Oxfam Australia said today.