In February of 2020, Australian leaders came together to sign the Closing the Gap National Agreement. This agreement aims to narrow the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians in areas such as health, education, and employment.
The agreement was signed by the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, along with the Coalition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peak Organizations, including the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organization, the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women’s Alliance, and the Indigenous Youth Leadership Academy.
The agreement is a significant step forward in addressing the inequalities faced by Indigenous Australians. It outlines a new approach to the issue, which prioritizes self-determination, partnerships, and a shared responsibility for progress between Indigenous communities and the government.
One of the key elements of the agreement is the establishment of bespoke agreements with Indigenous communities and organizations. These agreements will allow for a more localized and tailored approach to closing the gap, ensuring that the unique needs and aspirations of different Indigenous communities are taken into account.
The agreement also includes specific targets for improvement in areas such as education, health, and employment. For example, the agreement aims to close the gap in year 12 attainment rates by 2031 and to reduce the Indigenous youth suicide rate by 50% by 2028.
While there is still much work to be done in implementing the agreement and achieving its targets, the signing of the agreement represents an important milestone in Australia’s reconciliation journey. It demonstrates a commitment to working together with Indigenous communities to create a brighter future for all Australians.