WORK CONTINUES ON CLOSING THE GAP

ROGER JAENSCH MP, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs

The 2023-24 Tasmanian Budget reiterates the Rockliff Liberal Government’s firm commitment to delivering better outcomes for Tasmanian Aboriginal people and their families.

Included in this careful and considered Budget is the remaining $2 million for Closing the Gap.

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Roger Jaensch said this funding was part of the Government’s overall commitment of $5.3 million toward building the capacity of Aboriginal organisations so they can deliver services in their local community that specifically address Closing the Gap targets in key areas such as health and wellbeing, education and housing.

“The 2023-24 Budget is targeting every dollar to continue getting things done and building a safe, caring community,” Minister Jaensch said.

“The Government is also providing $200,000 to continue supporting process already underway in the Aboriginal Affairs portfolio, including legislative reform to enable the return of more land to Aboriginal people, and development of a new, stronger, Tasmanian Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Protection Act.”

The Tasmanian Budget also commits $500,000 over two years to deliver funding for Aboriginal heritage projects, including wukalina Walk.

This Aboriginal-owned and led multi-day guided walk takes place in wukalina / Mt William National Park and larapuna / Bay of Fires and includes cultural activities, bush tucker and traditional foods.

We will also be providing $275,000 over two years to support the development of new approaches to managing cultural fisheries and Aboriginal enterprises on sea country, ranging from specific fisheries development to broader sea country stewardship.

The Tasmanian Government will continue to work with all Tasmanian Aboriginal people, in partnership, on a shared journey towards true reconciliation.