CLOSE THE GAP REPORT SHARES EXAMPLES OF BLAK EXCELLENCE

Yindjibarndi people on country. Credit: Ngaarda Media.

The Close the Gap campaign says Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities hold the solutions to the problems they face.

That’s a key finding of the campaign’s 2024 report, which was launched this morning.

The report uses nine case studies of ‘Blak excellence’ to show how First Nations communities are demonstrating leadership and innovation.

The Pilbara’s Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation (YAC) is featured as an example of economic self-determination for its ‘3C’ model, which focuses on community, culture, and commerce.

The report outlines how YAC’s company Yurra employs more than 400 people, 35% of whom are Aboriginal, and has developed a “culturally oriented workplace”.

The report also highlights YAC’s under-construction Ganalili Accommodation and Training Facility, which will provide housing for Aboriginal apprentices and trainees.

YAC CEO Michael Woodley is quoted in the report as explaining: “The ‘3Cs’ are not just about building businesses and assets: it’s about creating pathways of growing people into opportunities and jobs, and also being a contributor to the nation-building model. That’s how we change things. That’s how we create long-term sustainability for our people and the generations to come.”

In launching the report, campaign co-Chair Karl Briscoe said the various case studies demonstrate successes in Closing the Gap.

“The case studies affirm the centrality of self-determination, culture, community-led services, programs, and initiatives to achieving health equity, equality, and improved life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” he said.

Close the Gap Co-Chair and Social Justice Commissioner June Oscar said: “The report provides insight into how First Nations leaders see and understand their roles and responsibilities, both to themselves and their communities. It also clearly demonstrates that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people know what is required to create meaningful change.”