Introduction
The Institute of Cultural Affairs Australia (ICA Australia), and other national ICAs affiliated with ICA International (ICAI), have for many years used a positive systems approach to empower individuals and communities to take responsibility for their own future, supported by appropriate government services.
(See Appendix A for information about ICA Australia)
This submission is specifically written to respond to the following questions which the Northern Territory Emergency Response Review Board says it is seeking answers to:
- What alternative measures should be considered?
- Are there other ways of working that would better address the circumstances facing remote communities and town camps?
This submission makes three recommendations in response to these questions (see pages 2-3 following).
Encouraging Current Atmosphere
ICA Australia recognises that the current atmosphere is conducive to a positive systems approach.
Through the Apology to the Stolen Generations made by the Prime Minister and the National Parliament on February 13, 2008, the Federal Government has indicated an openness to listen to and a willingness to work with Indigenous organisations and communities to address the many issues confronting remote communities and town camps in the Northern Territory. There is also a willingness to reform the government's own community engagement processes.
Subsequently 400 Aboriginal men gathered in Central Australia in July 2008 to discuss the situation and issued an apology to Aboriginal women for the violence they had inflicted on them over the years.
ICA Australia also notes the comments of others, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner on the importance of using participatory development processes to build sustainable communities.