Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships

The Honourable Desley Boyle MP Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships

The Queensland Government is driving reform to address disadvantage faced by Indigenous Queenslanders as part of an unprecedented national commitment to bring about positive change in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This Budget will help the State close the gap on disadvantage through the continued delivery of targeted infrastructure, programs and services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders.

Housing investment across Queensland's Indigenous communities will be fast-tracked via the newly-established Remote Indigenous Land and Infrastructure Program Office, which is working across Government to resolve land and infrastructure issues.

We will continue to work with Indigenous communities, the Australian Government and the Cape York Institute for Policy and Leadership in delivering the Cape York Welfare Reform partnership, which has already made positive steps in restoring local Aboriginal authority and rebuilding community norms, including school attendance.

Increased funding of $2.2 million in 2010-11 will continue support for the Queensland Indigenous Alcohol Diversion Pilot Program, providing more opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to access alcohol treatment services.

We have already made positive steps in closing the gap, but there is a long way to go. This Budget provides a solid foundation for the department to work toward this goal.

The Honourable Desley Boyle MP
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships