Closing the Gap: Target 3 met, urgent action needed from all parties

The latest Annual Data Compilation Report from the National Productivity Commission shows what can be achieved when all parties take a genuine approach to working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. 

The report declares Target 3, preschool enrolments have been met nationally, with over 95% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children enrolled in preschool. 

Lead Convener of the Coalition of Peaks, Donnella Mills said this is a landmark achievement for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities all over the country, demonstrating the positive outcomes of shared decision-making

“This is a step in the right direction, it means more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children have enrolled in preschool supporting access to early learning, giving them the best possible start in life,” Ms Mills said. 

“However, this does not mean we can stop here. Governments need to do more to embed the Priority Reforms in their work to close the gap and achieve the outcomes our people have fought for over decades, especially those governments where targets are going backwards or have stalled.”

“Closing the Gap on Target 3 shows what can be achieved when governments work in genuine partnership with our communities. 

“All parties must step up now to embed all Priority Reforms and achieve the Closing the Gap targets. 

“That’s why the Coalition of Peaks is focussed on delivering tangible outcomes like the creation of new jobs and strengthening the community-controlled workforce through the First Nations Economic Partnership. 

“To shift the dial on these targets, State, Territory and Federal governments must come together with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and community-controlled organisations and embed the Priority Reforms in all their work,” Ms Mills added.

According to new data, Target 10, Criminal Justice, Target 12, Child Protection and Target 14, Social and Emotional Wellbeing, are worsening. On the other hand, eight other targets are improving, including Target 8, Employment, which is on track to be met.

Media contact:

Meg Bacalhau (Essential Media), 0452 567 844, meg.bacalhau@essentialmedia.com.au