Media Release by The Hon Jenny Macklin MP

Close the Gap Day

Hundreds of events will be staged across the country today to mark National Close the Gap Day.

Held in schools, workplaces and community halls, today’s events demonstrate the strong community support for addressing Indigenous disadvantage.

Closing the gap is a national goal, which requires the Australian Government to work in partnership with the state and territory governments, businesses, not for profit organisations, Indigenous people and the wider community.

The Australian Government has set ambitious targets around closing the gap in health, education and employment.

The Government recognises that ending the disadvantage caused by decades of underinvestment will take time. We are investing in mainstream and Indigenous specific initiatives to close the gap. Indigenous specific initiatives include:

  • $5.5 billion under the National Partnership Agreement on Remote Indigenous Housing over ten years until 30 June 2018.
  • $1.57 billion under the National Partnership Agreement on Closing the Gap in Indigenous Health Outcomes over four years until 30 June 2013.
  • $564.4 million under the National Partnership Agreement on Indigenous Early Childhood Development over six years until 30 June 2014.
  • $228.9 million under the National Partnership Agreement on Indigenous Economic Participation over five years until 30 June 2013.
  • $291.2 million under the National Partnership Agreement on Remote Service Delivery over six years until 30 June 2014.

The Government is working with Indigenous people to support personal responsibility as the foundation for healthy, functional families and communities. Closing the gap requires a genuine partnership with Indigenous Australians at all levels. The Government is committed to a relationship based on trust and mutual respect.

Close the Gap Day is a chance for all Australians to get involved in this national effort.