Uniting Church in Australia
Northern Synod

The Indigenous members of our Synod expressed their absolute frustration at so called ‘consultation’ by governments with them. Governments have failed to use the people’s own language, they have minimized the time spent on the ground with people, they have told people what is going to happen rather than ask what should happen, and, critically, they have failed to come along side people in true partnership to develop workable strategies to overcome disadvantage. Governments continue to marginalise Indigenous Australians and treat them as objects rather than subjects, citizens with rights and responsibilities. Governments must begin a new engagement with Indigenous Australians which is shaped by true dialogue and mutuality.

 For more information about the Northern Synod’s statements and resolutions concerning the Northern Territory Intervention please follow this link.

Stuart McMillan
Moderator.