The Coalition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peak Organisations (Coalitions of Peaks), alongside all Australian governments, has tasked the Productivity Commission with reviewing progress and making recommendations to ensure the objectives of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap are met. The Agreement emerged from the recognition that previous government efforts were not improving outcomes, and, in some areas, the gap was widening.
The Agreement’s four Priority Reforms depend on building trust, which is currently lacking. Trust will only grow when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities share in decision-making. The gap is not a natural phenomenon but a result of how governments have historically wielded their power, often ignoring First Peoples knowledges and solutions.
The review highlights that business-as-usual approaches are insufficient for real change. While some tweaks and new initiatives have been introduced, these are not enough. Fundamental change in systems, departments, and the attitudes of public servants is necessary. Importantly, government decision-makers must acknowledge they do not always know what is best for Indigenous communities.
Without this deep, systemic change, the Agreement will fail, and the gap will persist. The Productivity Commission aims to provide a markedly improved assessment in three years, signalling successful implementation of the Agreement.
Genuine Engagement and Cooperation
For the first time, the National Agreement has been shaped through authentic engagement and cooperation between the representatives of First Peoples and government bodies. The Coalition of Peaks, drawing upon its expertise and experience, played a central role in formulating the commitments outlined in the historic agreement. Extensive consultations conducted in 2019 ensured that the voices and perspectives of First Peoples communities across the nation were heard and integrated into the agreement’s framework.
Inclusive and Empowering Approach
The ongoing involvement of First Peoples, including Elders, Traditional Owners, and community representatives, remains fundamental to guiding both the Coalition of Peaks and Australian governments throughout the implementation of the National Agreement. The collaborative approach underscores a commitment to inclusivity and empowerment within the decision-making process.
Data-Driven and Evidence-Based Policy
Acknowledging the importance of robust data and evidence-based policy, the Partnership expresses gratitude to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) and the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) for their contributions to the development of the National Agreement. Through workshops and technical support, the AIHW and ABS facilitated the formulation of targets, indicators, and trajectories, ensuring that the agreement is grounded in reliable information and analysis.
Flexibility and Adaptability
All parties to the National Agreement recognise the necessity for flexibility and adaptability, emphasising the document’s status as a “living” framework that evolves in response to emerging evidence and changing circumstances. By remaining responsive to the best available evidence, the agreement is poised to drive meaningful progress in closing the gap and advancing reconciliation efforts in Australia.
A Renewed Commitment to Inclusivity
The collaborative journey is guided by principles of partnership, respect, and equity, the National Agreement on Closing the Gap symbolises a renewed commitment to addressing historical injustices and building a more inclusive and prosperous future for all Australians. It plans to realise the vision of a nation where every individual can thrive, regardless of their background or identity.
The agreement is more than a policy document; it is a pledge to work together towards a future where equality is not just an aspiration but a reality. Embrace the new era of partnership and continue to strive for a nation that respects and values the contributions of all its people.