Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011-2018
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Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
Terminology
The term ‘Indigenous’ as used in this strategy refers to
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.
This original artwork was produced by Gilimbaa.
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The document must be attributed as Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011-2018.
ISBN PRINT 978-1-921975-12-7
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FAHCSIA11738
Photography by Lorrie Graham, 2010 and Kerry Trapnell, 2007.
Courtesy of the Department of Families Housing Community Services
and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA).
Please be aware that this strategy may contain the images of
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have passed away.
For more information, please visit www.indigenous.gov.au.
Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
|1
Contents
Ministers’ foreword 2
Overview 5
Why do we need an Indigenous Economic Development Strategy? 6
Indigenous economic development matters 6
Building on progress towards closing the gap in Indigenous disadvantage 6
Ongoing investment 7
A combined effort 9
The challenge 10
Diversity and strengths 14
Unique assets and culture 14
The importance of location 14
The opportunity 17
Setting priorities and taking action 18
Guiding principles 18
Ongoing engagement 19
Measuring progress 19
Priorities
Strengthening Foundations 20
Education 32
Skills Development and Jobs 40
Business and Entrepreneurship 50
Financial Security and Independence 58
Appendices
Significant Australian Government initiatives 65
supporting Indigenous economic development
Indigenous Economic Development Framework 73
Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
2 |
Ministers’ foreword
The Australian Government Australians and communities, Indigenous Australians’ economic
job service providers, employers, participation. Over the past two years
wants all Australians to share in
peak bodies, non-government we have made more than 80,000
the opportunities of Australia’s organisations and state, territory and placements into employment for
strong economy and to enjoy the local governments. We would like Indigenous job seekers through the
to thank everyone who took part Job Services Australia system.
financial and social benefits
in the consultations that helped to
of work. The Indigenous Economic
shape this Strategy. The Australian
Development Strategy will ensure we
Government recognises we cannot
The Indigenous Economic continue to create job opportunities
close the gap alone. Closing the Gap
Development Strategy will help and connect Indigenous Australians
requires a genuine partnership with
provide a pathway for Indigenous with jobs, by supporting job readiness,
Indigenous Australians at all levels
Australians to have the same skills development, strengthening
and the Government is committed
opportunities as all Australians — to links between training and jobs,
to a relationship based on trust and
get an education, find a job or start improving employment services
mutual respect.
their own business, own their own and driving demand for Indigenous
home and provide for their families. Closing the Gap also requires us to employment.
work in partnership with the state and
It focuses on five key areas We have invested in areas where
territory governments, businesses,
for improving the prosperity Indigenous Australians bring unique
not for profit organisations,
of Indigenous Australians: skills and assets. For example, the
Indigenous Australians and the wider
strengthening foundations to create Indigenous Ranger Cadetships
community. Importantly, individuals
an environment that supports program in selected regional and
must also take responsibility for
economic development; education; remote schools will give Indigenous
getting and keeping a job. This
skills development and jobs; students the chance to learn skills
Strategy provides a framework
supporting business development and gain the knowledge necessary to
for us to work in partnership to
and entrepreneurship; and helping become a ranger.
improve the economic situation of
people achieve financial security and Indigenous Australians. We are helping more young
independence. Indigenous Australians stay at school
As part of the Government’s ongoing
This Strategy is the result of extensive and get the skills they need to get a job
commitment to Closing the Gap,
consultation with Indigenous through the $50.7 million Indigenous
we are already working to increase
Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
|3
Youth Careers Pathways program, This Strategy provides a long-term
which provides school-based policy framework for the Australian
traineeships in targeted high schools Government and identifies priority
across the country. areas and policy objectives to 2018.
In order to respond to changing
Through the Indigenous
circumstances, the Strategy also
Opportunities Policy the Government
contains a range of actions to 2013
is using its purchasing power to
that will be updated so that the
increase the use of Indigenous
Strategy continues to drive real and
businesses in Australian Government
sustainable progress. Importantly it
funded contracts.
also continues to allow us to work in
Our unprecedented investment is partnership with Indigenous
beginning to make a difference, but Australians, communities, business
the Government recognises that and other groups.
this work will take time and
continued effort.
Jenny Macklin Mark Arbib
Minister for Families, Minister for Indigenous
Housing, Community Employment and
Services and Economic Development
Indigenous Affairs
Chris Evans
Minister for Tertiary
Education, Skills,
Jobs and Workplace
Relations
Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018 4 |
Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
|5
Overview
The Australian Government The Indigenous Economic
Development Strategy 2011–2018 sets
is committed to ensuring that
out a long-term agenda for Indigenous
Indigenous Australians have economic participation that will
the same opportunities as guide government decision-making
and program development through
non-Indigenous Australians to
to 2018. The Strategy also details
share in the prosperity of our a program of specific initiatives
nation. Providing Indigenous and reforms that translate the
Australians with the education, Australian Government’s priorities The five priorities of the
into action. These actions will be Strategy are to:
skills and support to find and assessed and updated every three
keep meaningful work, and to years to ensure that the Strategy 1. strengthen foundations
responds to changing circumstances to create an environment
build financial self-reliance, is
and continues to drive real and that supports economic
a crucial part of the Australian sustainable progress. development
Government’s long-term vision The Australian Government
2. invest in education
for closing the gap in Indigenous recognises that tangible and
disadvantage. lasting improvements in the 3. encourage participation
economic situation of Indigenous
and improve access to skills
The aim of the Indigenous Economic Australians cannot be achieved by
development and jobs
Development Strategy 2011–2018 is government alone.
to support increased personal and This Strategy supports Indigenous 4. support the growth of
economic wellbeing of Indigenous Australians to take responsibility for Indigenous business and
Australians through greater their own economic wellbeing and entrepreneurship
participation in the economy. to lead independent and productive
Economic independence and working lives. 5. assist individuals and
security are necessary foundations communities to achieve
for good health, functional families The Strategy also emphasises the
financial security and
and successful communities. vital roles that partnerships play in
independence by increasing
this endeavour, across the private
Despite some positive developments, sector, the not-for-profit sector,
their ability to identify,
Indigenous Australians continue all levels of government and the build and make the most of
to face significant economic community. economic assets.
disadvantage. Indigenous Australians
are still less likely to finish school,
have a job, own a home or run a
business than non-Indigenous
Australians. The Australian
Government is committed to
overcoming this situation.
Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
6 |
Why do we need an
Indigenous Economic
Development Strategy?
Indigenous economic Building on progress towards In 2008, the Australian Government
development matters closing the gap in Indigenous launched the Closing the Gap agenda
disadvantage in partnership with state and territory
Australia has a strong economy, with governments. Closing the Gap is an
one of the lowest unemployment Increasing Indigenous participation ambitious plan to improve the lives
rates among countries in the in the economy is vital to achieving of Indigenous Australians. Following
Organisation for Economic the Australian Government’s broader the National Apology to Australia’s
Co-operation and Development. It is a vision of closing the gap between Indigenous Peoples, the Council of
priority of the Australian Government Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian Governments agreed on
to make sure that Indigenous Australians in health, education, six key targets.
Australians have the opportunity employment and life expectancy.
to contribute to a stronger economy
The agenda to close the gap on Closing the Gap seeks to:
and achieve greater economic
Indigenous disadvantage is driven by
independence and security for q close the life expectancy gap
three important imperatives:
themselves, their families and their by 2031
communities. q to overcome decades of under-
q halve the gap in child mortality
investment in services and
Supporting the participation of rates by 2018
infrastructure
Indigenous Australians in the
q provide universal access to quality
economy benefits all Australians. q to encourage and support personal
early childhood education for
Greater participation in the workforce responsibility as the foundation
all Indigenous four year olds in
and business will help to close the gap for healthy, functional families and
remote communities by 2013
in employment and address income communities
disparities between Indigenous q halve the gap in educational
q to build new understanding and
and non-Indigenous Australians. achievement for children in
respect between Indigenous and
Increased economic participation will reading, writing, and numeracy
non-Indigenous Australians.
also contribute to strengthening the by 2018
national economy and help to meet
q halve the gap in young people’s
labour shortages in key industries.
(20–24 year olds) Year 12 or
equivalent attainment by 2020
q halve the gap in employment
outcomes by 2018.
Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
The Australian Government is |7
investing more than $5.75 billion
over three years from 2011–12 to help
achieve these targets. In addition, a
further $526.6 million over five years
was provided in the 2011–12 Budget
to boost our efforts to Close the Gap.
Economic participation is one of
the key building blocks of this
historic agenda.
A good education, safe housing,
healthy individuals, supportive
families and communities, local
leadership and strong governance
provide the foundations for
economic development. The
Australian Government recognises
the importance of these factors and
this Strategy focuses on the way
that education, health, safety and
community governance affect the
economic wellbeing of Indigenous
Australians.
Ongoing investment
The Australian Government
commits substantial resources to
mainstream services and programs
that support the development of
individual capacity and economic
opportunity, which are available to all
Australians. The education system,
health, financial management and
employment services all contribute
to building economic participation for
all Australians, including Indigenous
Australians. These programs directly
support the priorities outlined in the
Strategy.
In addition to the significant amount
of investment in ongoing mainstream
programs and the targeted
investment under the Closing
the Gap agenda, the Australian
“Supporting the
Government has numerous ongoing
Indigenous-specific initiatives
participation
and two statutory authorities that
contribute to economic participation
and development.
of Indigenous
Australians in the
economy benefits
all Australians”
Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
8 | The Australian Government q The Working on Country
is investing in a number of key Indigenous Ranger Program which
Indigenous-specific initiatives that delivers significant environmental
support the Strategy: outcomes across remote and
regional Australia, including
q The Aboriginal and Torres
improved management of fire,
Strait Islander Education
feral animals, invasive weeds,
Action Plan 2010–14 which is
threatened species and coastal
making substantial and ongoing
and marine systems.
investments in Indigenous
education and training. This q The Indigenous Opportunities
includes investment in the Policy (IOP) which was fully
priorities of: implemented on 1 July 2011.
Under the IOP, suppliers to the
> readiness for school
Australian Government who win
> engagement and connections contracts valued over $5 million
($6 million for construction)
> attendance
for activity in regions with a
> literacy and numeracy significant Indigenous population
> leadership, quality teaching and are required to develop and
workforce development implement an Indigenous
Training, Employment and
> pathways to real post-school Supplier plan. The plans include
options.
q The Indigenous Employment
strategies for using Indigenous
businesses in the supply chain. “Support the
Program which aims to increase
economic outcomes and
> A complementary
Commonwealth Procurement development
participation by encouraging Guidelines (CPG) exemption
employers to provide sustainable
employment opportunities for
was introduced on 19 May
2011 to reduce obstacles for
of individual
Indigenous Australians and
supporting Indigenous Australians
Commonwealth Government
agencies to contract directly with capacity and
to develop skills and businesses. Indigenous small-to-medium
q The Community Development businesses. This will make it
easier for Indigenous businesses
economic
Employment Projects program
which supports Indigenous
Australians in remote areas
to compete for government
contracts, as the procurement opportunity”
through community development process is simpler and
and participation opportunities administrative costs are reduced.
that develop skills, improve
capacity, work readiness and
employability.
> The Australian Government is
conducting a review of remote
participation and employment
services to ensure job service
providers are best meeting the
needs of Indigenous and other
remote job seekers.Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
|9
Some of the most important The Strategy identifies a range of
investments that the Australian specific actions, both mainstream
Government has made over a and Indigenous-specific, which are
number of years are through the two underpinned by or build on these
key statutory authorities responsible key initiatives and investments. A
for supporting Indigenous economic summary of a range of Australian
development, the Indigenous Government initiatives and programs
Land Corporation and Indigenous that support Indigenous economic
Business Australia. development and participation is also
provided as an Appendix.
q Indigenous Business Australia
(IBA) works to increase economic
independence for Indigenous A combined effort
Australians by providing home
and business loans and joint Australian Government investment
venture investment partnerships. is, however, only one part of the
Through these initiatives solution. The private sector, non-
Indigenous Australians increase government organisations, other
their capacity to work with and levels of government and Indigenous
benefit from the private sector to Australians all play essential roles
pursue business opportunities and in improving Indigenous economic
own their own homes. IBA has an development.
asset base of approximately The role of the private sector is
$1.02 billion. particularly significant. Businesses
q The Indigenous Land Corporation are the most critical part of a strong
(ILC) works to achieve economic, and developing economy. Private-
environmental, social and sector engagement is fundamental to
cultural benefits for Indigenous improving economic development
Australians by purchasing and opportunities for Indigenous
managing land. Through these Australians.
activities Indigenous Australians
are provided with training
for jobs and better access to
education. These initiatives lead to
sustainable management of land
and contribute to the protection
of cultural and environmental
values. The ILC has an asset base of
approximately $681 million.Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
10 | There are examples where real The challenge
change is occurring in this area.
In the mining industry there is Despite ongoing effort by all partners,
significant engagement between significant challenges remain.
mining companies and Indigenous Indigenous Australians are just
communities and employees. This over half as likely to finish Year 12
is making a real difference to the when compared to non-Indigenous
rates of Indigenous employment in Australians. Young Indigenous
the mining industry and generating Australians aged 15–19 are less
opportunities for Indigenous likely to be enrolled in school than
businesses. The Memorandum their non-Indigenous counterparts
of Understanding between the (37.9 per cent compared to 51.7 per
Australian Government and the cent) and those aged 20–24 attend
Minerals Council of Australia university at about one-fifth the
demonstrates both the level of rate of their non-Indigenous peers1 .
opportunity that exists in this Although Indigenous Australians are
sector and the commitment by both participating in vocational education
government and the mining industry and training, the level of qualification
to maximise economic benefits for and the rates of completion tend to
Indigenous Australians. be low and the levels of participation
are not adequately reflected in
The Australian Employment employment outcomes.
Covenant is another example of
how industry has taken a lead role In all states and territories, across
in partnering with governments cities, regions and remote areas,
and Indigenous Australians to help the rate of Indigenous labour force
close the gap in employment and participation is lower, and the
employment opportunities. Since unemployment rate higher, than
it was first announced in 2008, the for non-Indigenous Australians.
Australian Employment Covenant Indigenous Australians are
has secured commitments from nearly four times more likely to be
employers across Australia to place unemployed. Indigenous Australians
over 50,000 Indigenous Australians tend to remain unemployed for
into employment. longer, are more likely to be employed
part-time and a greater proportion
The non-government sector also are not in the labour force (35.5 per
plays a key role not only in the cent of working age Indigenous
provision of support services, but Australians compared to 21.7 per cent
also in providing opportunities of the non-Indigenous working age
for employment of Indigenous population)2. Indigenous Australians
Australians.
are less likely to be self-employed
Government and the private sector than non-Indigenous Australians and
can assist in creating opportunities are under-represented in professional,
and building individual skills and managerial, technical and trades-
capacity. However, the commitment based occupations.
of Indigenous Australians to
This situation is reflected in income
increase their rate of economic
levels and financial security. On
participation is essential to sharing
average Indigenous Australians
the benefits of economic growth. In
earn just over half as much as non-
resetting the relationship between
Indigenous Australians (median
Indigenous Australians and 1 Productivity Commission, 2009 Report on Overcoming
income of $400 per week compared Indigenous Disadvantage
non-Indigenous Australians, the 2 Productivity Commission, 2011, Report on Overcoming
to median income of $608 per week). Indigenous Disadvantage
Australian Government is working
Only 29 per cent of Indigenous 3 Productivity Commission, 2011 Report on Overcoming
with Indigenous groups to identify Indigenous Disadvantage
Australians own their own home,
opportunities and develop local
compared to 65 per cent of non-
solutions. Leadership is essential
Indigenous Australians3.
to making the most of these
opportunities.Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
| 11
“Identify
opportunities
and develop
local solutions”Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
12 | The Indigenous population is Indigenous Australians, as the
very young — almost half of all gaps in the workforce created by
Indigenous Australians are aged the ageing of the non-Indigenous
19 years and under — and growing population need to be filled.
fast. In 2006 there were 517,000 Schooling and employment are
Indigenous Australians and the ABS the keys to ensuring we make the
projects that by 2021 the Indigenous most of these opportunities and
population will increase to more than to ensure Indigenous Australians
720,0004. This means that while the achieve a greater level of financial
nation overall adapts to an ageing independence. Figure 1. provides
population, Indigenous Australia a snapshot of these indicators and
will have particular needs relating the economic differences between
to growing numbers of school-aged Indigenous and non-Indigenous
children and young job seekers. Australians.
Based on population benchmarks
for the ABS 2008 National Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander Social
4 ABS 3238.0 Experimental Estimates and Projections,
Survey (NATSISS), at least 135,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians,
1991 to 2021
Indigenous Australians aged
4–14 years in 2008 will be of working
age by 2018. These trends present
great opportunities for youngIndigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
| 13
FIGURE 1: DIFFERENCES IN ECONOMIC INDICATORS BETWEEN INDIGENOUS AND
NON-INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIANS.
Indigenous Outcomes Non-Indigenous Outcomes
Strengthening Living in state or community housing Living in state or community housing
Foundations = 39.5% = 3.2%
Relying primarily on income support Relying primarily on income support
= around 40% (among the 18-64 year = around 14% (among the 18-64 year
old population) old population)
Education Year 12 attainment = 47.4% Year 12 attainment = 83.8%
(among the 20-24 year old population) (among the 20-24 year old population)
Jobs Persons 15-64 years Persons 15-64 years
Total per cent employed = 53.8% Total per cent employed = 75.0%
Unemployed rate = 16.6% Unemployed rate = 4.2%
Not in the labour force = 35.5% Not in the labour force = 21.7%
Business and Persons 18-64 years in Persons 18-64 years in
Entrepreneurship non-remote areas non-remote areas
Self employed = 6.7% Self employed = 10.9%
Financial Security Median weekly income = $400 Median weekly income = $608
and Independence Home ownership = 29.0% Home ownership = 65.2%
Source: Productivity Commission, 2011 Report
on Overcoming Indigenous DisadvantageIndigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
14 |
Diversity
and strengths
The Australian Government Alongside an increase in the number
of Indigenous Australians working
recognises and values the diverse
in sectors in which Indigenous
circumstances and experience Australians have traditionally been
of Indigenous Australians. involved such as land management,
literature, the arts, the resources
To be effective, government
sector and primary industry, many
actions must take into account Indigenous Australians are making a
a diversity of cultural identities, growing contribution to the broader
economy in areas such as retail,
family connections and
consultancy, the public sector and
responsibilities, as well as the business and entrepreneurship, to
location and demographic profile name a few. Indigenous Australians
have made these contributions
of communities. Access to jobs and
while maintaining and benefiting
commercial opportunities can be from a strong cultural identity within
very different in cities, towns and individuals, families and communities.
remote areas across the country.
The importance of location
Unique assets and culture When it comes to economic
development, place matters. Access to
Indigenous Australians have unique employment opportunities, markets,
and important assets and skills to bring services, infrastructure, education
to the broader economy. This includes and therefore the ability to participate
strong social networks and community in the broader economy is influenced
identity, and a rich traditional and by where Indigenous Australians
cultural knowledge that can be live. Three-quarters of Indigenous
valuable economic assets. Indigenous Australians live in urban and regional
culture and its practice can support centres. While only 25 per cent live in
economic participation, development remote Australia, the level of economic
and financial independence. disadvantage of Indigenous Australians
Indigenous Australians own or control in these areas is acute.
approximately 20 per cent of land in Because opportunities and challenges
Australia and the resources associated for Indigenous economic development
with that land, including access to differ across urban, regional and
minerals, water and areas of high remote areas, there is a need for flexible
biodiversity value. development opportunities that can
adapt to place and local context.Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
| 15Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
16 | Cities and larger regional centres financial independence. Through q removing barriers to genuine
programs such as Connecting commercial ventures, which is
In cities and larger regional centres,
People with Jobs, the Australian crucial to ensure that private-
Indigenous economic development
Government is supporting sector opportunities grow in
means helping Indigenous
Indigenous Australians where remote locations to complement
Australians tap into the diversity
they choose to move to access public-sector services and jobs.
of existing economic activity, for
education and jobs in locations
example: Long-term reliance on income
with increased opportunities.
support can undermine other
q the greater availability and
q Innovative solutions which aim to capabilities and further entrench
accessibility of education and
increase economic participation in disadvantage. In remote areas,
vocational training targeted at
particular locations, such as a fly-in the focus for governments and
job opportunities and career
fly-out mobile workforce, should be individuals needs to be on:
progression
explored.
q building individual capabilities,
q opportunities for business
q Access to infrastructure is including foundation skills
development, home ownership
important. Government has a role
and wealth creation are greater in q improving employment services
in ensuring that infrastructure
these locations. to better meet the needs of
is available and that people are
remote locations
in a position to make the most of
Smaller regional and rural areas new technologies that can boost q creating meaningful participation
economic participation. activities – this means making sure
In these areas the focus is on
that Indigenous Australians are
building individual capabilities and
encouraged to take the jobs that
ensuring that welfare systems do not Remote locations
are available and that appropriate
discourage economic participation.
In remote and very remote job search requirements
Education is of the utmost
locations education levels can be are enforced.
importance.
low, jobs scarce and infrastructure
q Vocational training should be undeveloped. Increasing Indigenous
focused on local employment economic participation in these areas
opportunities and areas where is about:
there are identified skills shortages.
q identifying new opportunities
q Improved support for business and maximising Indigenous
development will assist more employment in the existing
people in regional areas to achieve labour marketIndigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
“Success | 17
depends on
working in
partnership”
The opportunity New positions are expected to companies are providing jobs and
significantly increase across a range allowing Indigenous Australians to
While it is encouraging that there of industries over the next five share in wealth creation. Indigenous
has been an increase in involvement years, offering new opportunities Protected Areas, while delivering
in sectors of the economy with at the entry level and for qualified significant environmental benefits,
traditionally higher Indigenous applicants. Over the five years to will also support economic
participation, the Australian 2015–16, significant employment endeavours such as ecotourism.
Government — and the business growth is expected in areas such as
There are a growing number of
community — needs to work with health care, construction and mining.
native title agreements. In addition
Indigenous Australians to look more Additionally, employment in the
to payments, these agreements often
broadly and consider opportunities food services industry is projected
include practical benefits such as:
in a wide range of established and to increase. These sectors provide
emerging sectors. opportunities for employment across q training and employment
A number of sectors, including all states and territories.
q title to land
mining, health care, social assistance There are a number of sectors
q business, cultural heritage and
and trades, are experiencing experiencing skills shortages, such
conservation opportunities.
shortages of skilled workers. as mining, health and community
Shortages are evident in the services, food services and It is critical that these agreements
engineering professions, health construction, creating a wide range of provide sustainable and
diagnosis, treatment and nursing employment prospects. intergenerational outcomes for native
professions, automotive, engineering title groups.
As investment in clean energy
and food trades and child care.
sources such as solar, gas and wind There is a need to recognise the
To assist Indigenous Australians
increases, the growth of the clean valuable contribution Indigenous
to gain the skills they need to
energy sector will also provide Australians are making to the
contribute to the labour market in
many new opportunities for jobs and economy and to work together to
these occupations, the Australian
businesses and initiatives. Through turn opportunities into jobs and
Government has in place a range of
the Indigenous Carbon Farming businesses.
initiatives, including scholarships and
Fund under the Carbon Farming
incentives for study at university and
Initiative, the Australian Government
through the vocational education and
will support Indigenous Australians
training system.
to take up opportunities in carbon
Employers also experience difficulty abatement activities. This may
recruiting workers in the retail, include savanna fire management,
transport and hospitality sectors. feral camel management and
These offer entry-level positions to environmental planting.
the labour market, and may provide
Indigenous-held land provides real
sound opportunities for new job
economic opportunity. Land use
seekers. Job Services Australia plays
agreements should incorporate
a key role in connecting unemployed
strategies that encourage economic
people to employers in these and
participation, like business and home
other sectors.
ownership. Agreements between
Indigenous communities and miningIndigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
18 |
Setting priorities
and taking action
Just as the Closing the Gap work the Australian Government q Indigenous Australians can make
is doing to achieve each of the a unique contribution to our
framework provides a clear
objectives identified in the Strategy. economy.
set of shared goals to address
The actions contained in the Strategy q Closing the Gap requires a genuine
Indigenous disadvantage, will be updated every three years, as partnership with Indigenous
the Indigenous Economic the Strategy drives the development Australians at all levels and the
Development Strategy 2011–2018 of new policies and initiatives to Government is committed to a
support Indigenous economic relationship based on trust and
provides a vision for government, development. mutual respect.
business and Indigenous and
Government cannot act alone. q Lasting Indigenous economic
non-Indigenous Australians Success depends on working in wellbeing relies on Indigenous
and outlines actions for partnership with Indigenous leaders, Australians having the
communities and individuals opportunities and taking
improving Indigenous economic
and with businesses, industry responsibility for their individual
development. peak bodies and non-government and family wellbeing, education
organisations. and economic independence.
The Strategy sets out a long-term
policy framework for Indigenous By monitoring, progressing and q Indigenous leadership is essential
economic development that will developing the actions under this to leading and shaping sustainable
guide government decision-making Strategy we expect to see: improvements in Indigenous
and program development through to economic wellbeing.
q a better skilled and motivated
2018, which aligns with the timeframe Indigenous workforce capable of q Real, sustainable change cannot be
of the Closing the Gap agenda. It finding and keeping jobs, starting achieved by government alone. It
sets priorities and objectives and businesses and building assets relies on Indigenous Australians,
describes the initial actions the the private sector, the not-for-profit
Australian Government will take in q a stronger and more viable
sector and all levels of government.
the priority areas. Indigenous business sector
q Action is most effective when
The priority areas and actions in the q an economic environment
it supports the goal of greater
Strategy reflect the input provided that supports greater use and
Indigenous economic self-reliance.
through public submissions and recognition of Indigenous skills,
discussions with the private sector, assets and opportunities. q Effective action targets both
the not-for-profit sector, all levels of existing and future needs. A
long-term perspective is essential
government and the community. Guiding principles
In addition to the actions already to building greater economic
identified, the Strategy provides a The success of this Strategy relies independence and prosperity for
basis for the Australian Government on the commitment and actions of Indigenous Australians.
and stakeholders to work together to all partners including governments,
develop new policies and actions in the private sector and Indigenous
these areas. Australians. All actions developed
under this Strategy will be guided by
This Strategy will be implemented the following principles:
through the actions embedded in
the Strategy. The actions identify theIndigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
| 19
Ongoing engagement The Australian Government will to track progress. The Strategy will
continue to work in partnership not duplicate existing reporting
Genuine engagement with with Indigenous Australians. This processes, rather it will be used
Indigenous Australians is will include working with a range to monitor broader progress and
fundamental to the Australian of individuals, bodies and groups develop future actions.
Government’s efforts to increase that offer specific expertise and
personal and economic wellbeing Key indicators of economic
knowledge on particular areas in the
and close the gap in Indigenous development are already captured
continued development of
disadvantage. in the Australian Government’s
the Strategy over time. This will
reporting against Closing the
The successful implementation include, for example, the National
Gap targets (such as education
of this Strategy relies on the Congress of Australia’s First Peoples,
and employment) and the
active involvement of Indigenous Native Title Representative Bodies
Productivity Commission’s reporting
Australians, government and the and Land Councils and the newly
on Overcoming Indigenous
community. This includes volunteers, established Indigenous Business
Disadvantage (such as household
businesses, industry peak bodies and Policy Advisory Group.
and individual income). The Prime
non-government organisations. Measuring progress Minister’s annual Closing the Gap
It will be essential for the Australian statement to Parliament reports on
This Strategy provides a high-level
Government to maintain this these indicators and the progress
policy framework and describes
engagement as it develops, designs that is being made in these
the major actions the Australian
and implements the range of important areas.
Government is taking to achieve
programs and actions that will its goal of improved economic
respond to the key economic development for Indigenous
priorities and actions articulated in Australians. Specific targets and
the Strategy. reporting arrangements are built
into each of the programs and
initiatives identified in the StrategyIndigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018 20 |
Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
| 21
Priority 1:
Strengthening
FoundationsIndigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
22 |
Individuals are more likely to engage community, where local leadership
in the broader economy when they sets an inspiring example of success
are healthy, live in safe, well-run and wellbeing. Where these factors
communities and when welfare and are present, people are better able
taxation policies are designed to to access and benefit from the
support participation. education and vocational skills
development opportunities that
An environment that encourages
will create pathways to economic
people to develop the skills they
participation.
need to get a job or establish a
business is crucial to improving the The Australian Government’s
long-term prosperity and economic unprecedented investment in
independence of Indigenous these foundations of economic
Australians. Settings that best wellbeing is already making a real
support economic development are difference to Indigenous Australians’
those where people have access to lives. Government also has an
basic services and infrastructure important role in ensuring that the
such as health care, live in safe, legal, taxation and welfare systems
resilient communities and have encourage economic participation
stable and secure accommodation. and do not create disincentives that
Strong, local governance is also impede successful participation in
required to provide a strong the economy.Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
Strengthening Foundations | 23
Objective 1.1 Increase access to safe and affordable housing
Affordable housing gives people the benefiting from the significant new The renegotiation has resulted in a
chance to raise families in the safety investment the Australian Government new sense of drive and urgency, with
and security of their own homes. In has undertaken in response to New South Wales, Western Australia,
a safe and stable home, Indigenous decades of under-investment in safe Tasmania and the Northern Territory
Australians are better able to develop and affordable housing. The benefits all exceeding their new housing targets
the skills needed to find and keep jobs of this investment are considerable, during the 2010–11 financial year.
and have successful working lives. particularly in areas where Indigenous
Australians make up a significant Overall since the commencement of the
The Australian Government provides proportion of social housing residents. National Partnership on
mainstream housing assistance to To ensure the benefits of this investment 1 January 2009 until 30 June 2011,
low-to-medium income households are sustained into the future Indigenous more than 800 new houses have been
through Commonwealth Rent Australians must be encouraged to take completed and 3,100 houses have been
Assistance, as well as funding under responsibility for homes. rebuilt and refurbished nationally.
the National Affordable Housing
Agreement which supports state and The Australian Government has Private ownership plays a significant
territory government social housing committed an unprecedented part in providing Australians with
initiatives. With Indigenous Australians $5.5 billion over ten years from access to secure housing. Historically
earning, on average, about two–thirds 2008–09 through the National however Indigenous Australians have
as much as non-Indigenous Australians, Partnership Agreement on Remote not enjoyed the same rates of home
access to safe and affordable housing Indigenous Housing. Under the ownership as other Australians. While
is critical. Under the Social Housing National Partnership jurisdictions have the rate of Indigenous home ownership
Initiative more than 19,600 new social committed to 20 per cent Indigenous is increasing it is still only slightly over
housing dwellings are being built and employment over the life of the half of the national rate. As Indigenous
around 80,000 existing homes repaired program. economic wellbeing improves, income
and upgraded. Indigenous Australians levels and the rate of home ownership
make up around 8 per cent of Australia’s The National Partnership Agreement are expected to rise. In addition
public housing residents, totalling 2,500 on Remote Indigenous Housing to working closely with financial
Indigenous households supported is a joint partnership between the institutions and state and territory
under the Social Housing Initiative. Australian, state and Northern Territory governments to address this issue the
Governments. The Agreement was Australian Government also funds
Like most Australians, the majority of renegotiated in late 2009 to provide direct assistance through Indigenous
Indigenous Australians (75 per cent) greater incentives for performance, Business Australia’s home loan
live in urban and regional areas where resulting in better than expected programs (Home Ownership Program
they have access to a range of housing delivery. and Home Ownership on Indigenous
services and opportunities. The Land Program).
Australian Government is committed Under the revised arrangement up to 25
to working with state and territory per cent of a jurisdiction’s capital works Home ownership is also recognised in
governments and services to increase funding allocation can be reallocated if Priority 5 as an important element of
the supply of safe and affordable agreed targets are not met. Financial Security and Independence.
housing. Indigenous Australians are
STRENGTHENING FOUNDATIONS
Objective 1.1 Increase access to safe and affordable housing
Strategies to 2018 Actions to 2013
Increase the supply of safe Work with state and territory governments and private providers to continue to increase the supply of
and affordable housing public and community housing under the National Partnership Agreement on Remote Indigenous
Housing and the National Affordable Housing Agreement and work with private providers to increase the
supply of affordable housing.
Encourage responsibility for Continue to work with the state and territory governments to ensure that robust tenancy management
homes arrangements in community and public housing are in place, and promote greater care and responsibility
for homes under the National Partnership Agreement on Remote Indigenous Housing and the National
Affordable Housing Agreement.
Support the transition from Work with state and territory governments to expand access to affordable home ownership through
tenancy to home ownership mortgage assistance, matched savings accounts and shared equity schemes.
Note that a full list of actions Continue to provide access to affordable home loans to eligible Indigenous Australians through
supporting this Strategy is Indigenous Business Australia (providing an average of $103.9 million per annum in home loans over
provided under Objective 5.1 three years).Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
24 | Strengthening Foundations
Objective 1.2 Ensure infrastructure investments support economic development
Economic activity and growth Investment in new information It also has the potential to create
rely on quality infrastructure. The technology is essential to increasing new employment and enterprise
Australian Government is making access to markets in regional and opportunities in Indigenous
record investments to modernise, remote locations. In particular, the communities, particularly in regional
improve and increase Australia’s National Broadband Network will and remote locations. Ensuring these
economic infrastructure. In many be a critical enabler as it is rolled potential benefits are maximised
regional and remote areas Indigenous out. This investment can boost is a priority for the Australian
communities face infrastructure productivity, drive innovation and Government.
challenges that require specific lift economic output. It will help
attention. In these locations, new give children access to world-class
infrastructure that can drive education resources, provide access
economic development must be a to better health care and enable local
priority for government. businesses to reach new markets.
STRENGTHENING FOUNDATIONS
Objective 1.2 Ensure infrastructure investments support economic development
Strategies to 2018 Actions to 2013
Increase access to Continue to roll out the National Broadband Network nationally.
new information Improve access to basic telephone services and public internet facilities in remote communities through the Indigenous
technology Communications Program ($31 million over four years from 2009–10).
Improve essential Implement the Remote Indigenous Energy Program to help remote Indigenous communities access clean, affordable
infrastructure and reliable 24-hour power supplies through installing renewable energy generation systems such as solar panels and
wind turbines in around 50 remote Indigenous communities across Australia ($40 million over 5 years from 2011–12).
Provide critical safety upgrades to remote and isolated airstrips across Australia, including in remote Indigenous
communities through the Regional Aviation Access Program ($33.5 million over two years from 2011–12) which
includes $12.1 million over three years from 2010–11 for safety upgrades to airstrips at Indigenous communities.
With the state and territory governments, ensure new housing constructed under the National Partnership on Remote
Indigenous Housing have access to essential service infrastructure (power, water, sewerage, roads) in priority remote
communities and town camps. This includes funding, jointly with the Northern Territory Government, of over $150
million over five years from May 2009 for the Alice Springs Transformation Plan which will transform town camps into
fully serviced suburbs like any other in the town.
Work with state and territory governments to implement revised roles and responsibilities for funding and delivery of
municipal and essential services and related infrastructure in remote communities, as committed to by the Council of
Australian Governments under the National Partnership on Remote Indigenous Housing.
Provide new purpose-built or refurbished community stores and store manager accommodation across the Northern
Territory to help ensure healthy and affordable food is readily available ($50 million between 2011 and 2015).
Complete projects to upgrade water supply and wastewater infrastructure such as treatment facilities, water storage
capacity and pipe networks in remote communities, and support these communities in the overall management of their
water supply systems ($51.7 million over four years from 2011).Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
Strengthening Foundations | 25
Objective 1.3 Increase access to health services
Poor health can have a significant as it is to all Australians. Indigenous Partnership Agreement on Closing
impact on a person’s capacity to Australians are more likely than the Gap in Indigenous Health
participate in the economy. Healthy non-Indigenous Australians to be Outcomes.
people develop their capabilities hospitalised for most diseases and
The Australian Government is
through education and training and conditions, experience disability and
committed to increasing access
grasp opportunities to work or start reduced quality of life due to ill health
to health services for Indigenous
businesses. Indigenous Australians and die at a younger age than other
Australians through investing in
experience significantly lower health Australians.
health infrastructure, providing
outcomes than other Australians and
In an effort to address decades better coordinated care, assisting with
improving Indigenous health will
of under-investment in health the cost of medicines and improving
result in significant benefits impacting
services in Indigenous communities, access to follow-up health care.
both directly and indirectly on their
the Australian Government has Another priority is the expansion
ability to participate in the economy.
increased its annual specific of the Indigenous health workforce
Ready access to quality health Indigenous health expenditure by to ensure the provision of effective,
services is crucial to the health and 87 per cent since 2007–08. This culturally-sensitive health services.
wellbeing of Indigenous Australians, includes the $1.6 billion NationalIndigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
26 |
STRENGTHENING FOUNDATIONS
Objective 1.3 Increase access to health services
Strategies to 2018 Actions to 2013
Improve health Invest to improve access to health services by providing 15 new or expanded Indigenous health clinics and 40
infrastructure new renal dialysis chairs through the Health and Hospitals Fund - Regional Priority Round ($113.4 million over
five years from 2011–12).
Improve the quality and safety of health services delivered to Indigenous Australians by assisting Indigenous
health organisations to achieve clinical accreditation through the Establishing Quality Health Standards
program ($35 million over four years from 2011–12).
Support an expanding Under the Indigenous Chronic Disease package ($805.5 million over four years from 2009–10), fund a total
Indigenous health of 698 new positions nationally, with many positions focusing on employment and training of Indigenous
workforce Australians. This includes:
Þ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Outreach Workers
Þ practice managers
Þ Project Officers in Divisions of General Practice and NACCHO and State Affiliates
Þ additional health professionals in Indigenous health services
Þ Regional Tobacco Coordinators
Þ Tobacco Action Workers
Þ Healthy Lifestyle Workers
Þ a flexible pool of funding to recruit Care Coordinators based on local needs.
Increase access to mental Expand the Access to Allied Psychological Services (ATAPS) program to deliver culturally appropriate suicide
health services prevention and mental health services to around an additional 18,000 Indigenous Australians ($36.5 million
over five years from 2011–12).
Address child–abuse related trauma of Indigenous children, families and their communities in the remote
Northern Territory by funding Mobile Outreach Service Plus and related services ($15.6 million over four years
from 2008–09).
Improve access to primary Establish 62 Medicare Locals as part of the National Health Reform agenda including in regional locations
health care with significant Indigenous populations such as Northern Territory, Far North Queensland and Kimberley-
Pilbara Medicare Locals. Medicare Locals will be primary health care organisations established to coordinate
primary health care delivery and tackle local health care needs and service gaps. They will drive improvements
in primary health care and ensure that services are better tailored to meet the needs of local communities
($493 million over four years from 2011–12).
Under the Commonwealth’s Indigenous Chronic Disease package ($805.5 million over four years from
2009–10):
Þ tackle chronic disease risk factors including smoking, poor nutrition and lack of exercise and deliver
community education initiatives to reduce the number of Indigenous Australians with these risk factors
Þ improve chronic disease management and follow-up care in primary care by providing incentives
and support for accredited general practices and Indigenous health services to detect, treat and
manage chronic disease more effectively, supporting Indigenous Australians to participate in their
own healthcare and by increasing access to affordable specialist, allied health care and medicines for
Indigenous Australians with a chronic disease
Þ increase the capacity of the primary care workforce to deliver effective health care to Indigenous
Australians by funding more than 160 new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Outreach Workers,
75 additional health professionals and practice managers in Indigenous health services, and a range of
workforce training and professional development activities.
Implement and evaluate pilot projects providing mobile dental equipment and services to rural and regional
Indigenous communities ($11 million over four years from 2009–10).
Provide dental follow-up services to children living in the prescribed areas of the Northern Territory with a
referral from a Child Health Check or from a subsequent follow-up service such as a primary health care
consultation ($10.7 million over three years from 2009–10 as part of the $131.1 million Closing the Gap –
Northern Territory – Indigenous Health and Related Services measure).Indigenous Economic Development Strategy 2011–2018
Strengthening Foundations | 27
Objective 1.4 Support safe communities
All Australians have the right to in education and housing can make a take responsibility for choices that
live in safe communities, free from real difference. lead to healthier lives. The Australian
violence, abuse and fear. For too many Government recognises that by
Safe and stable communities promote
Indigenous Australians, communities providing positive role models and
social engagement, achieve better
are not the safe places they should be. setting high expectations, strong
educational outcomes and are
Indigenous leaders can make a vital
While state and territory governments more likely to attract investment by
contribution to the security and
have primary responsibility for lowering risk for business.
wellbeing of their communities.
ensuring that Indigenous Australians
Every individual and family has a role
enjoy the same level of safety as
to play in rebuilding and enforcing
other Australians, the Australian
the social norms that underpin
Government also has a part to play.
successful communities. Positive
People need to feel safe in their
social norms encourage people to
homes and streets before investment
STRENGTHENING FOUNDATIONS
Objective 1.4 Support safe communities
Strategies to 2018 Actions to 2013
Improve Reduce family violence by implementing the Indigenous Family Safety Program ($64.4 million over four years from
community safety 2010–11) which will:
Þ address alcohol abuse, with an urgent focus on reducing the supply of alcohol
Þ provide more effective police protection to reduce incidents of violence
Þ work with strong local leaders to strengthen social norms against violence by changing attitudes and fostering
respectful relationships
Þ coordinate support services to aid the recovery of people who experience violence, including children who
experience or witness violence.
Support Indigenous communities to develop local solutions for promoting community safety through fostering
women’s leadership, building community capacity and improving access to services under the National Framework for
Protecting Australia’s Children and the National Plan to Reduce Violence Against Women and their Children.
Reduce petrol sniffing in remote communities by expanding the rollout of Opal fuel from 110 sites to 150 sites
nationally under the Petrol Sniffing Strategy ($38.5 million over four years from 2010–11).
Increase the police presence in remote communities in the Northern Territory with five new permanent police stations
($47.8 million in 2011–12) and eight sworn community police engagement officers ($1.7 million in 2011–12).
Reduce offending and reoffending through focused initiatives under the Indigenous Justice Program
($11.4 million in 2011–12) including provision of holistic through-care programs for people exiting prison.
Support new community solutions for fighting alcohol and substance abuse in Indigenous communities, including
development of alcohol and substance abuse management programs through the Breaking the Cycle initiative
($20.0 million over three years from 2011–12).
Encourage safe Indigenous communities by improving the capacity of Australian justice systems to deliver on the needs
of Indigenous Australians, reducing Indigenous overrepresentation in the criminal justice system, addressing substance
abuse, and strengthening partnerships between communities, governments and stakeholders under the National
Indigenous Law and Justice Framework.You can also read
