SOUTH AUSTRALIAN ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY CONTROLLED ORGANISATION NETWORK
"Taking back control of our community needs and aspirations"
Historic Agreement Signed to CLOSE THE GAP
South Australia’s Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation Network (SAACCON) has signed an historic agreement with the South Australian Government, which promises to make significant improvements to the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in this state.
“This agreement is very significant forA Aboriginal people,” said SAACCON Convenor, Mr Scott Wilson.
“For too long, we have not had a true seat at the decision making table. This agreement, the South Australian Closing the Gap Implementation Plan, sets in motion an opportunity now for us to make some real changes and make a difference to the lives of Aboriginal people.”
Mr Wilson said the Implementation Plan, signed by the Premier and SAACCON recognises the far reaching, intergenerational impacts of colonisation and dispossession which excluded Aboriginal people, resulting in entrenched, systemic and structural racism and disadvantage.
“We now have a chance to right the wrongs and commit to a new way of developing and implementing policies and programs that impact on the lives of Aboriginal people,” said Mr Wilson.
SAACCON Co-Convenor, Ms Tina Quitadamo said the Implementation Plan, is a whole of government plan covering all agencies, local government and statutory bodies.
“We understand there is a lot of work to do; and we know translating the words in this plan into action is critical as is ensuring accountability and driving structural change to help Close the Gap,” said Ms Quitadamo.
“Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations look forward to working with our communities and all the branches of government to identify new ways of doing business with each other.
“We are hoping these changes will speed up the process of Closing the Gaps,” she said.