First Nations Discussions in the House of Reps (31/07/2025)

Indigenous Affairs

• Aboriginal Deaths in Custody: A significant focus of the session was on the ongoing issue of Aboriginal deaths in custody. Amanda Rishworth, MP for Kingston, highlighted the unacceptability of 602 First Nations deaths in custody since the 1991 Royal Commission. She emphasized the grief and trauma within the community, especially following the death of Kumanjayi White while in police custody (Page 1). Rishworth called for heightened action from states and territories to reform the justice system, alongside government initiatives aimed at improving housing, job opportunities, and healthcare for Indigenous communities (Pages 1-2).
• Response from Julian Leeser: Julian Leeser, MP for Berowra and representing the Liberal Party, acknowledged Rishworth’s statement and expressed his condolences to Kumanjayi Walker’s family. He underscored the importance of taking practical steps to mitigate the risks and conditions leading to deaths in custody, aligning with Rishworth’s calls for action (Pages 2-3).
• Zali Steggall’s Concerns: Zali Steggall, Independent MP for Warringah, criticized the systemic injustices faced by Indigenous Australians. She underscored the need for community-led solutions to reduce youth incarceration and tackle institutional racism (Pages 3-4).
• Marion Scrymgour’s Assertion: Marion Scrymgour, federal member for Lingiari, shared her personal connections to the issues at hand and expressed deep concern about the impact of recent deaths in custody. She called for an independent inquiry into these deaths and highlighted the persistent institutional racism within the Northern Territory police force (Pages 4-5).
• Legislative and Policy Discussions Toward Reform: Throughout the session, members echoed the need for significant reforms to address the injustices faced by Indigenous Australians. The ongoing discussions around Aboriginal deaths in custody reflect a shared call from various MPs for enhanced accountability and transformative change within the justice system. The dialogues emphasized a collective responsibility among government and community leaders to create meaningful change and recognition of Indigenous rights.
• Community Engagement and Acknowledgments: This session also encapsulated a broader recognition of the ongoing struggles and contributions of Indigenous Australians within the parliamentary discourse, highlighting a commitment among legislators to address these critical social justice issues.