The Ministerial Taskforce on Aboriginal Affairs has been established to produce a new Aboriginal affairs strategy in 2012, to refocus efforts to close the gap and open up opportunities for Aboriginal people in NSW. It will include concrete reforms around the following Terms of Reference:

1. to improve service delivery and accountability in Aboriginal affairs, with particular consideration of the recommendations of the Auditor General’s report on Two Ways Together, and other arising reports;
2. to improve educational outcomes for Aboriginal people in NSW; and
3. to improve employment outcomes for Aboriginal people in NSW.

While there are undoubtedly other issues that must be addressed such as juvenile detention rates, health and housing, they will be considered through the strength-based framework of education and employment. We must recognise that effective reform in education and employment will help to reduce many of these problems.

For more information please visit the Office of Communities – Aboriginal Affairs website.