A-G launches Aboriginal Justice Agreement while defending tough-on-crime stance
Attorney-General Selena Uibo has hailed the launch of the Territory’s new Aboriginal Justice Agreement as a ‘historic moment for the NT’, while defending the government’s other tough on crime policies.
Northern Territory
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ATTORNEY-GENERAL Selena Uibo has hailed the launch of the Territory’s new Aboriginal Justice Agreement (AJA) as a “historic moment for the NT”, while defending the government’s other tough on crime policies.
The $4.5m road map will focus on supporting and establishing local law and justice groups, reintroducing community courts, continuing alternatives to custody and redesigning and expanding access to programs that address the root causes of offending.
“The signing of this agreement is a momentous step towards improving the lives of Aboriginal Territorians, and the safety of all Territorians, so together we can make the Territory a better place for everyone,” Ms Uibo said.
“We know that if we keep doing the same things, we will keep getting the same results — and that is why we are delivering new initiatives based on what Aboriginal communities tell us will work, to create better outcomes.
“Together we can ensure Aboriginal Territorians who are in contact with the justice system are treated fairly, respectfully, and without discrimination.”
Ms Uibo said while the government had copped criticism for dragging its heels in launching the AJA, the time taken was necessary to complete extensive consultations with more than 160 communities throughout the Territory.
“We have received criticism but because the body of work is far too important to rush and to get wrong, we’re extremely proud to be launching the AJA,” she said.
Ms Uibo insisted the agreement’s focus on reducing Indigenous incarceration rates was compatible with recent controversial changes to youth bail laws that have seen a steady rise in the number of children detained on remand.
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“What we’re talking about is some of the crisis points, unfortunately, we’ve seen in the youth justice space, where young people have received bail and have gone out and committed offences while on bail and that’s not protecting our community,” she said.
Aboriginal Justice Unit director Leanne Liddle said the AJA was “the road map that will transform and dictate a new way of doing business in the justice system for Aboriginal people”.
“We need a justice system that’s just and no matter your colour, no matter where you live, whether it be remote or regional, you should have access to services that meet your needs,” she said.
“This agreement ensures that 30 per cent of the population of the NT are included in the justice system.”
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