Media Release
Joint Media Statement
Senator Chris Ellison, Federal Minister for Human Services Eric Ripper MLA, Acting Premier of Western Australia
20 July 2007
The Federal Minister for Human Services, Senator Chris Ellison, and the Acting Premier of Western Australia, Eric Ripper, met in Halls Creek today to discuss how the Federal and State governments could work together to prevent child abuse and neglect in indigenous communities in Western Australia.
The Federal Member for Kalgoorlie, Barry Haase, and the State Member for Central Kimberley-Pilbara, Tom Stephens, also participated in the discussions which followed meetings with community members by Senator Ellison and Mr Ripper.
Senator Ellison said the meeting was very constructive and underscored the commitment of both governments to working towards the same goal in relation to the serious and complex issues surrounding the protection of women and children in indigenous communities.
“We canvassed a wide range of subjects relating to the social, health and economic needs of remote indigenous communities, including matching State and Commonwealth data to address issues such as truancy, the importance of getting people into work and training, and dealing with the damage caused in the community by alleged serious child sex offences,” Senator Ellison said.
Acting Premier of Western Australia, Eric Ripper, said he welcomed Senator Ellison’s visit to Halls Creek and any Commonwealth interest in the problems facing remote indigenous communities.
Mr Ripper said his meetings with the Halls Creek community had further discussed the wide range of problems which needed both federal and state attention.
“I am pleased to have the chance to raise these matters with Senator Ellison”, Mr Ripper said. “As I have said, from the outset, the wellbeing of women and children is paramount.
“The Western Australian Government is prepared to work co-operatively with the Commonwealth and we welcome any support which will help us find sustainable solutions to these terrible problems”.
Media Contact: Matt Francis – 0406 052 038.