Close the Gap Day: Time for action

By Nigel Browne
Aboriginal Investment NT CEO

Today is National Close the Gap Day.

It’s a day to call out inaction and demand that more be done for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in this country.

As a nation, we are no closer to closing the gap. Multiple reports and many years later, only four of 19 targets are reportedly on track. We all accept that this is unacceptable.

While Aboriginal Investment NT operates independently of government, we acknowledge the role we play in helping to close the gap, specifically in the NT.

Our work centres around putting Aboriginal money back into Aboriginal hands, so that Aboriginal Territorians can self-determine their own economic, social and cultural needs and live well according to their values and measures of success.

Aboriginal communities are brimming with ideas for their families, communities and futures. They know what is best for them. We must listen to them. We must support them. We must take their lead.

Aboriginal Investment NT will continue to put Aboriginal Territorians at the forefront of decision-making to drive development opportunities – big and small – that deliver real and lasting economic, social and cultural impact.

We urge others to do the same. When Aboriginal people are in the driver’s seat, better and more sustainable outcomes are achieved.