Since 1788, First Nations Peoples in Australia have fought for their rights in the face of violent colonial policies. Despite decades of activism calling for treaties, truth-telling, and genuine self-determination, governments are yet to fully protect these rights in law.
The UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), adopted in 2007, offers a robust framework to advocate for Indigenous rights globally. UNDRIP sets minimum standards for the survival, dignity, and well-being of First Nations Peoples. Although Australia endorsed UNDRIP in 2009 (after being one of four Countries to initially vote against adopting it), governments are yet to implement any aspect of it into domestic law, leaving critical gaps in the recognition and protection of First Nations Peoples rights.
In late 2023, the Joint Standing Committee on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Inquiry into the Application of UNDRIP in Australia, led by Senator Pat Dodson, made six critical recommendations including the design and implementation of a National Plan to progress the Declaration.
Sign the petition to demand the Australian Government take action to implement UNDRIP.
I call on the Australian Government to take immediate and decisive action to implement the UNDRIP Inquiry recommendations. As Senator Dodson states, “the application of UNDRIP offers a blueprint for a renewed relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the Australian nation”. The Government’s failure to accept and implement these recommendations is a missed opportunity to honour the inherent rights of First Nations Peoples.
Now is the time for the Australian Government to transform its engagement with First Nations Peoples, honouring sovereignty and self-determination.