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 Page 41

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