Indigenous Affairs Ministers met via videoconference last Friday (February 20) to outline priorities and progress outcomes for First Nations people and communities.
Federal Minister Malarndirri McCarthy opened the meeting with an acknowledgement of the alleged terrorist attack at an Invasion Day rally in Perth on 26 January 2026. Ministers recognised the need for coordinated action to strengthen community safety and support social cohesion in response to incidents of hate and extremism.
Minister McCarthy updated ministers about the release of the Commonwealth’s Closing the Gap Annual Report and Implementation Plan, tabled in Parliament on 12 February 2026. Ministers provided an update on implementation activities in their states and territories and when they expect to table annual reports and implementation plans in their parliaments.
Discussion also focused on preparations for the next Joint Council on Closing the Gap meeting on 22 May 2026, including progress on the Joint Council response to the Independent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led Review of the National Agreement.
Ministers considered the National Strategy for Food Security in Remote First Nations Communities, as well as recent food security announcements in the Commonwealth’s 2026 Closing the Gap Implementation Plan. They emphasised the importance of sustained efforts to ensure equitable access to essentials in remote communities.
Relevant ministers shared updates on truth‑telling and treaty processes in their jurisdictions. Ministers reaffirmed the importance of transparent dialogue and shared learning in partnership with First Nations people.
The South Australian Minister was unable to attend the meeting and was represented by Ms Nerida Saunders, Executive Director, Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation. The Tasmanian Minister was also unable to attend but was represented by Ms Mellissa Gray, Deputy Secretary, Department of Premier and Cabinet. The Victorian Minister was also unable to attend due to illness.