Government heads meet in Kalgoorlie on indigenous issues reform

1/2/03
Senior Government officials will meet Kalgoorlie-Boulder indigenous and regional leaders on Friday (February 7) to discuss ways to improve race relations in the Goldfields.
Indigenous Affairs Minister Alan Carpenter said the State Government, through the Department of Indigenous Affairs, was working in partnership with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) and the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder to address social issues in the region.

Together they would develop a framework agreement that clearly defined the roles and responsibilities of the Commonwealth and State Governments, the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and indigenous people to improve the living standards and lifestyle of all community members.
"There have been a number of social issues in the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder that are continuing to impact on indigenous people and the broader community," Mr Carpenter said.
"Issues of violence, concerns about personal safety and inadequate health and housing facilities have resulted in growing racial tension and discrimination.
"We are actively working on putting in place strategies that improve services for indigenous people."
Mr Carpenter said the framework agreement demonstrated the Government's commitment to working in partnership with indigenous communities to co-ordinate Government services more effectively.
Heads of Government from the Departments of Indigenous Affairs, Community Development, Justice, Education and Training, Police and Treasury and Finance will attend the meeting, at the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Council Administration Offices.
Also attending are City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Mayor Paul Robson, Eyre MLA John Bowler, ATSIC regional manager Adrian Brahim and City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder chief executive Ian Fletcher.
Three key reports will be considered: a mapping and gap analysis, detailing available services, shortfalls and recommendations, presented by the Department of Indigenous Affairs; a needs analysis and community perception survey; and youth needs analysis, both to be presented by the City of Kalgoorlie Boulder.
Directors General will also tour the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, including Ninga Mia, Adeline, Trilby Cooper Hostel, Bega Garnbirringu, and town camps in Boulder, near the railway and Yarri Road.
Minister's office: 9213 6800