National Reconciliation Week is a reminder that comprehensive action is urgently needed to address the injustices experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, says the Australian Lawyers Alliance (ALA).
"As this year's Reconciliation Week theme reminds us, we need to take action to make an impact," said Mr Graham Droppert SC, National President, ALA. "It is critically important that we continue to press the government for changes to the law that will help address the systemic injustice that affects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
"Our legal system has often failed to adequately represent and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, but we know that the law can be used effectively to create a more just and equitable society.
"Raising the age of criminal responsibility is a critical and simple legal change that will make a significant difference to the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our prisons.
"Additionally, we need government funding committed to justice reinvestment, early intervention strategies and community lead culturally appropriate services to divert Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from the justice system.
"Enshrining a First Nations Voice in the constitution must also be a priority for this government.
We believe the recommendations in the Uluru Statement from the Heart are sensible, pragmatic and legally moderate and must be adopted."
