Reconciliation Australia congratulates Senator Scullion’s reappointment to Shadow Ministry
Media Release – 17 September 2010
Reconciliation Australia congratulates Senator the Hon Nigel Scullion on his reappointment to the Shadow Ministry as Spokesperson for Indigenous Affairs.
Leah Armstrong, Reconciliation Australia’s Chief Executive, said she hoped to hold talks with Senator Scullion early in the coming term of Parliament.
“As someone who has spent 25 years in the Northern Territory, Senator Scullion is someone who has expressed an understanding of Indigenous Affairs and the complexities of his portfolio.
“Reconciliation Australia will continue to support a bi-partisan, national approach to closing the gaps,” Ms Armstrong said.
“Indigenous Affairs benefits from all parties working closely together to achieve the shared aim of ending the ongoing disadvantage of many Indigenous Australians.”
Ms Armstrong also takes the opportunity to congratulate Senator Marise Payne on her appointment as Shadow Spokesperson for Indigenous Development and Employment.
“There’s been a large focus on regional Australia in the aftermath of the 2010 Election and Reconciliation Australia supports moves to improve crucial areas such as education, employment, health and infrastructure in regional areas—particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians,” Ms Armstrong said.
“It’s a great opportunity to broaden the political focus to include Indigenous Australians who live across our nation, in all areas, not just remote communities.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people play a vital role in Australian society and it is important that Indigenous issues are supported by both sides of politics.”
Media Contact: Kylie Thompson, 0418 633 277 or kylie.thompson@reconciliation.org.au
