An Aboriginal community west of Alice Springs will be the first in Central Australia to form a government supported Law and Justice Group following the launch of the Northern Territory's first Aboriginal Justice Agreement.
The remote community of Walungurru (Kintore), 530 kilometres west from Alice Springs, will establish the community-driven group, which will support greater autonomy for Aboriginal Territorians.
The Aboriginal Justice Agreement is a seven year strategy to improve justice outcomes for Aboriginal Territorians.
Law and Justice Groups empower Aboriginal leaders and respected persons to contribute to and deliver local strategies that will:
• Reduce behaviours that contribute to offending;
• Promote positive values to increase safety; and
• Strengthen communities.
Law and Justice Groups will also play a key role in establishing Community Courts, as well as providing assistance to government agencies and service providers that deliver outside of the justice system in areas such as health, housing, kinship care and child protection.
Other benefits of Law and Justice Groups include breaking down language and cultural barriers, improving the delivery of services to communities, and increased participation of partnering Aboriginal people as stakeholders in decisions made by Government.
The Territory Labor Government is also working with the community of Ikuntji (Haasts Bluff), 227 kilometres west of Alice Springs, to establish another Law and Justice Group in Central Australia.
Quotes from Attorney-General Selena Uibo:
"We have a responsibility to ensure that all Territorians have the ability to grow, thrive and live safely.
"We know that if we keep doing the same things, we will keep getting the same result - and that is why we are delivering new initiatives based on what Aboriginal communities tell us will work to create better outcomes.
"I congratulate Walungurru on taking this important step forward - the community is leading the way for others in Central Australia and across the Territory.
"Together we can ensure Aboriginal Territorians who are in contact with the justice system are treated fairly, respectfully, and without discrimination. Together we can ensure the decisions are led by Aboriginal people to make the changes needed across our communities and to reduce the high levels of reoffending experienced in the Territory."
Northern Territory Government
