26 July 2024
Life Without Barriers celebrates the career of Minister Linda Burney as she announced her decision to retire from politics.
As the first Indigenous person elected to the New South Wales parliament, the first Indigenous woman elected to the House of Representatives and the first Indigenous woman appointed as a Cabinet Minister, Minister Burney has been a trailblazer in Australian politics for over four decades of service.
Claire Robbs, Chief Executive of Life Without Barriers said, “Throughout her career, Minister Burney has dedicated herself to public service, championing and advocating for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and placing them at the centre of policymaking.”
“Under Minister Burney’s leadership, significant progress has been made, including the establishment of the long overdue National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people.”
“We thank Minister Burney for the light she has shone across our nation – a light born from grace and kindness. Minister Burney has and continues to be a living example that we can bring collective wisdom together to advance our nation.“
Minister Burney’s commitment to truth-telling has shone through in all her work, in telling the story of children in the child protection system, and her resilience, intelligence and integrity has inspired many across the nation.
“The need for continued truth-telling is most evident in the deeply troubling over-representation of First Nations children in the child protection system,” said Claire.
“This truth is why Life Without Barriers has partnered with SNAICC – National Voice for our Children (SNAICC) to progressively step away from providing care to Aboriginal children. This commitment is directly aimed at supporting Close the Gap targets.
“We know how important it is for Aboriginal children to be supported by Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and in community.
“We thank Minister Burney for her service to the people of Australia and for championing change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“Life Without Barriers will continue to advocate for the changes so desperately needed to Close the Gap.”
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