As NAIDOC Week commences, Labor acknowledges Tasmania's strong and vibrant Aboriginal population and the strength of the ongoing connection between people and country.
Labor Leader Rebecca White said it was this strength and connection that underpinned the 2020 NAIDOC theme Always Was, Always Will Be.
"Because of the pandemic, NAIDOC Week is being celebrated later than usual this year to ensure people are able to gather safely. But it's great to see that Aboriginal community organisations around Tasmania have a full calendar of events scheduled for the week and we wish them every success," Ms White said.
"The generosity of Aboriginal people is to be applauded, particularly during NAIDOC Week, as they share their stories, cultural knowledge and experiences with other Tasmanians. And Labor recognises that NAIDOC 2020 is an invitation to all Australians to embrace this enduring history.
"Labor is very proud to have been part of advancing the return of land to Aboriginal people through the Aboriginal Lands Act 1995. The last of these land parcels was handed back under the Lennon Labor Government in 2005, including truwana/Cape Barren Island and lungtalanana/Clarke Island.
"It is an important Labor principle to continue exploring opportunities for the further return of land into the future and to advance the work towards achieving a Treaty for Australia's Indigenous peoples."
Rebecca White MP
Labor Leader
