At its June meeting Council resolved to offer its strong support of the Federal Government reforms to resolve indigenous child abuse, in addition to offering in-kind support to facilitate the process.

“Council also resolved to request that the Federal Government keep us informed during the implementation process, so we can, wherever possible, answer the increasing number of questions from the community,” said Mayor Fran Kilgariff.

Council agreed the dire situations being faced in many Indigenous communities has gone on long enough, and felt the Government’s actions may be a way forward in developing a positive future for those children and families affected.

“Quality of life has been lacking in the lives of Indigenous children in many communities and Council sincerely hopes that the Government reforms will be the catalyst for change that is so sorely needed,” said Mayor Kilgariff.

In a written letter to the Prime Minister the Mayor has asked that the Federal Government be aware of the likely increase in people travelling to, or moving into urban areas, due to the action being taken in remote communities.

“I am almost certain that the reforms will have an effect on urban towns in the Northern Territory, particularly Alice Springs, should people decide that they no longer wish to live in communities under these tightened arrangements,” said Mayor Kilgariff.

“When Council applies for funding to contribute to projects that help improve or maintain our existing infrastructure, such as an indoor aquatic centre or repairs to our basketball stadium, it is to ensure current and future residents have access to such facilities for safe recreation,” said Mayor Kilgariff.

“Alice Springs already suffers from urban drift, which stretches our resources and plagues our town with violence and alcohol driven anti-social behaviour. I am concerned that this might be exacerbated by the reforms,” said Mayor Kilgariff.

“I ask the Prime Minister to take all of these aspects into consideration when the Government is allocating resources and funding,” said Mayor Kilgariff.

For further information contact:

Mayor Fran Kilgariff (08) 8950 0525 or 0419 376 060

ASTC Chief Executive Officer Rex Mooney (08) 8950 0525 or 0427 161 956

ASTC Media Officer Fionn Muster (08) 8950 0546 or 0417 884 449