First Nations Consultations For the Australian Human Rights Commission
Table 12: Key Issues in the Health Sector
Health Disparities
Lack of Cultural Safety
Systemic Racism in Healthcare
60%
62%
64%
Issue
66%
68%
70%
72%
74%
76%
Percentage of Respondents
Health Disparities
75%
Systemic Racism in Healthcare
70%
Lack of Cultural Safety
65%
3.3.3 Justice sector
The justice sector consultation for the National Anti-Racism Framework involved 30 participants
from a diverse range of organisations, including Anti-Discrimination NSW, Youth Justice, National
Legal Aid and the QLD Human Rights Commission. This sector is essential for promoting equity
and fairness in society, yet systemic racism and discrimination remain deeply entrenched, posing
significant barriers and contributing to poorer outcomes for First Nations people.
Participants highlighted the urgent need for robust legislation that hold individuals accountable
for acts of racism. One participant stated, "Laws are needed for people committing racism to be
held accountable," reflecting a strong desire for legal frameworks that effectively address these
issues. There was also a compelling call to end the over-incarceration of First Nations people, with
one participant urging, "Stop locking up mob." Furthermore, the necessity of mandatory face-toface Cultural Safety education for all justice sector workers was emphasised as a critical step
toward developing understanding and capability.
In addition, participants called for increased funding for legal services and programs, ensuring
that incarcerated First Nations individuals are informed of their rights and relevant policies.
Integrating First Nations knowledge and practices into restorative justice programs was seen as
vital for fostering community-centered accountability. Participants stressed the importance of
addressing intergenerational trauma and adopting a holistic approach to service delivery. One
participant remarked, "Education around intergenerational trauma and colonisation is necessary,"
highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of these issues within the justice system.
There was a strong emphasis on the necessity of building trust with First Nations communities.
Participants called for transparency in funding, the creation of more job opportunities for First
Nations people, and the involvement of communities in policy development from the outset. "Be
open and let mob be involved from start to finish," one participant advised, highlighting the
importance of inclusive processes.
To support First Nations individuals facing multiple forms of racism, participants advocated for
enhanced mental health and rehabilitation services, improved housing solutions, and the
establishment of a national framework similar to the Yoorrook Justice Commission. They stressed
An Anti-Racism Framework: Voices of First Nations Peoples
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