It is hard to imagine why some of the disadvantages faced by many Indigenous Australians exist in a country as prosperous as Australia.
But it’s important to remember that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders were only given the right to vote in 1967. Past policies and programs led to Indigenous Australians being forcibly removed from their traditional lands.
When you consider the history, you can start to see why many Indigenous Australians just haven’t had a fair go.
Today’s facts are sobering:
- Indigenous children are nearly three times more likely than non-Indigenous children to die before their first birthday.
- Two-thirds of Indigenous children will not finish secondary school.
- There are higher rates of heart disease and chronic illness suffered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
- They are over-represented in detention and child protection cases.
- Average life expectancy of an Indigenous Australian is much less than the rest of the population, with the likelihood of dying almost 20 years earlier.
But communities are overcoming these disadvantages by setting plans in place to create a brighter future for children and their families. World Vision is committed to making a difference by contributing our expertise and supporting communities who are working for positive change.
We work with communities and organisations who invite us to share our community development approach. We are committed to long-term programs that enable people to live the lives they choose.
World Vision supports communities to run their own programs. Through strong partnerships, Australia Programs is linking hands with Indigenous Australian communities for a brighter future.
Learn more
We are committed to learning from the rich history and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We hope to learn more through talking, sharing and partnering.
If you are also keen to find out more, visit: stolengenerationstestimonies.com or reconciliation.org.au.
If you would like to contribute to our work with Indigenous Australian communities, become a Linking Hands pledge partner and donate to our Australia Programs today.