The Prime Minister says he will not back a federal truth and justice commission.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says he wants to recognise the historical and contemporary struggles of Indigenous Australians through the principle of “makarrata”, while stopping short of endorsing a formal truth and justice commission.

This stance diverges from the more formal process advocated by many First Nations leaders, who seek a structured approach to truth-telling and justice.

Speaking at the Garma festival in north-east Arnhem Land, Albanese highlighted the importance of “engagement” and working closely with Indigenous communities to address disadvantage and foster economic development. 

“Obviously, there has been a struggle for First Nations people,” Albanese said. 

“That’s why we talk about closing the gap, or what is really a chasm in some areas. And coming together is a principle of walking together – that engagement. It’s not a moment in time. It’s a process of coming together after struggle.”

Makarrata, a term from the Yolŋu language meaning “coming together after a struggle”, is one of the three core aspirations of the Uluru Statement from the Heart. 

This statement also calls for a constitutionally enshrined Indigenous voice to parliament, which was rejected in a referendum last year, and a treaty or treaties.

While supporting the concept of makarrata, Albanese emphasised the need for consultation and collaboration with Indigenous organisations. 

The Prime Minister's interpretation of makarrata appears to focus on ongoing engagement rather than the establishment of a commission to oversee formal truth-telling processes. 

This is in contrast to the views of many Indigenous leaders, who advocate for a commission to facilitate airing historical and current truths about the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

Albanese also addressed the broader issue of Indigenous disadvantage, highlighted by Statistics on the disproportionately high numbers of Indigenous people in detention and jail in the Northern Territory. "

The Prime Minister announced several initiatives aimed at improving conditions for Indigenous Australians, including a $20 million investment to develop the Garma Institute, an on-country tertiary and vocational education centre. 

This is part of a broader $4 billion, ten-year housing partnership with the Northern Territory Government, which aims to build 2,700 new homes and upgrade many more in remote communities.

Albanese highlighted ongoing projects in Maningrida, Milingimbi, Yirrkala, and other areas to bring safe drinking water to communities. 

Additionally, the government is investing $109 million in First Nations justice programs across Australia, working with elders and leaders to prevent crime and boost community safety.

Other initiatives include opening new dialysis clinics in remote areas and connecting remote communities to free and reliable Wi-Fi, enabling tele-health consultations and educational opportunities.

In his address, Albanese emphasised the importance of celebrating Indigenous successes and remaining optimistic about the future. 

Yothu Yindi Foundation Chairman Djawa Yunupingu called for significant government investment in permanent infrastructure in remote communities, empowering local traditional owners to benefit economically from their land.