Read the Report and make notes on the areas of concern identified in the report.
https://ctgreport.niaa.gov.au/sites/default/files/pdf/closing-the-gap-report-2020.pdf
What these 2 clips and make notes.
The "Closing the Gap" initiative in Australia aims to reduce disadvantage among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The initiative, launched in 2008, focuses on improving health, education, employment, and other key life outcomes. The findings of the "Closing the Gap" inquiry have been documented in annual reports, with the most recent reports highlighting various achievements, ongoing challenges, and areas needing improvement. Here are some key findings:
Early Childhood Education:
Significant progress has been made in early childhood education. Enrollment rates for Indigenous children in early childhood education have increased, reaching near parity with non-Indigenous children.
Year 12 Attainment:
The gap in Year 12 attainment rates between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students has narrowed. More Indigenous students are completing Year 12, which is crucial for better employment and further education opportunities.
Reduction in Child Mortality:
Child mortality rates among Indigenous children have declined, reflecting improvements in healthcare access and quality.
Life Expectancy:
Despite some improvements, the life expectancy gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians remains significant. Indigenous Australians, on average, have a shorter life expectancy by approximately 8-9 years compared to non-Indigenous Australians.
Health Outcomes:
Chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease continue to disproportionately affect Indigenous Australians. Access to healthcare services, particularly in remote areas, remains a critical issue.
Educational Attainment:
While Year 12 completion rates have improved, there are still substantial gaps in educational outcomes at various levels, including literacy and numeracy achievements.
Employment:
Employment rates for Indigenous Australians remain lower than for non-Indigenous Australians. Barriers to employment include discrimination, lower levels of educational attainment, and limited access to employment opportunities in remote areas.
Housing and Overcrowding:
Housing conditions for many Indigenous Australians are still poor, with high rates of overcrowding and inadequate housing infrastructure, particularly in remote communities.
Mental Health:
Indigenous Australians experience higher rates of mental health issues and suicide compared to non-Indigenous Australians. Access to culturally appropriate mental health services is insufficient.
Justice and Incarceration Rates:
Indigenous Australians are overrepresented in the criminal justice system. The rates of incarceration and contact with the justice system are significantly higher for Indigenous people, highlighting the need for justice system reforms.
Community Control and Empowerment:
There is a growing recognition of the importance of Indigenous-led solutions and community control in achieving sustainable improvements. The partnership between governments and Indigenous communities needs to be strengthened to ensure culturally appropriate and effective interventions.
Cultural Safety:
Ensuring that services are culturally safe and respectful of Indigenous cultures is essential for improving outcomes across health, education, and other areas.
Partnership Agreement on Closing the Gap: In 2019, a new Partnership Agreement on Closing the Gap was established, involving Australian governments and the Coalition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peak Organisations. This agreement aims to promote shared decision-making and accountability.
New Targets and Revisions: The Closing the Gap framework has been updated with new targets and priorities to better address the needs and aspirations of Indigenous Australians. These include targets related to early childhood, education, employment, health, justice, and housing.
While there have been some notable successes in certain areas, many challenges remain in closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. The findings highlight the need for continued and enhanced efforts, greater community involvement, and sustained commitment from all levels of government to achieve meaningful and lasting improvements.