Policies in Focus

This Government recognises the need to change the way it does business in Indigenous Affairs. On 10 October 2002 the Premier signed The Statement of Commitment to a New and Just Relationship with Indigenous Western Australians.

The statement committed the Government to work collaboratively and to work in partnership with Indigenous community.

To deliver on this commitment Government will support the development of regional and local agreements. These agreements will be developed in partnership with the community and with stakeholders at the National, State and Local level. For this reason the Policy Directorate is working to support effective engagement with the Indigenous community.

The Policy Directorate of DIA has four key strategic objectives:

Leadership - A clear vision and strategic direction for Indigenous Affairs that is endorsed and supported by stakeholders is established.
Systems Change - Appropriate systems, policies and legislation are in place to support the achievement of agreed outcomes in Indigenous Affairs.
Services Coordination - Government is acting in a coordinated way and delivering services that meet the needs of individuals, families and communities in a holistic and integrated manner.
Community Participation - Indigenous people are engaged and participating in decisions that affect their lives and future.

It has set some priorities to ensure that the process of change occurs effectively.

The development of a whole-of-government blueprint that integrates planning, programs, services and funding arrangements.
Agreed benchmarks and indicators will monitor success and influence decision-making in policy and service delivery.
Provision of advice regarding initiatives to build community capacity and promote effective engagement with Indigenous people.
Environmental health and infrastructure policy to improve living conditions.
Early intervention and universal prevention approaches as a foundation to address underlying causes of social disadvantage and community dysfunction.