Time to Make a Difference for Indigenous Students

“The Independent Education Union of Australia welcomes the comments made by Treasury Secretary Ken Henry in relation to Aboriginal education and the need for special status in indigenous policy making” said IEUA Assistant Secretary Chris Watt.

“The fact that Australia’s Aboriginal peoples remain at the bottom level of every economic, health and social indicator is unacceptable and should be a source of national shame,” he said

“Changing this must be a national priority and Australians need to commit to support courageous policy to tackle together the issues that continue to divide this country,” said Mr Watt

The IEUA notes the report by Professor Tony Vinson “Dropping Off the Edge” released back in February 2007 that found: 'that despite our nation's recent strong economic growth, some communities remain caught in a spiral of low school attainment, high unemployment, poor health, high imprisonment rates and child abuse'”

“Sadly, the economic and social policies of the last decade have widened the gap between rich and poor in this country and have further exacerbated problems in many communities.”

“The IEUA strongly supports the notion that ‘education can help transform social and economic opportunities’” he said

“Accordingly the IEUA believes that increased resources and support are a long overdue national priority in indigenous education”

Contact

Chris Watt                                                                   02 6273 3107

Assistant Federal Secretary                                       0419 259 143