The Joint Standing Committee on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs has commenced an inquiry into the Truth and Justice Commission Bill 2024, introduced in the Senate by Yamatji-Noongar Senator Dorinda Cox.
The Bill proposes to establish a Federal Truth and Justice Commission, which would provide a national framework for truth-telling about the history and impacts of colonisation, dispossession, and systemic racism on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The commission would also make recommendations on how to advance justice, healing, raise awareness and increase public understanding, and reconciliation for First Nations communities and the wider Australian society.
Chair of the Committee, Mutthi Mutthi and Wamba Wamba Senator Jana Stewart, said the inquiry was an opportunity to hear from stakeholders and experts on the merits and challenges of the provisions in the Bill.
The Committee welcomes submissions from interested individuals and organisations on any or all aspects of the Bill by Friday 6 September 2024.
Further information on the inquiry, including the terms of reference and how to contribute, is available on the Committee's website.
