George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

Thank you very much, Senator Siewert. That's a very important question. As you would know, the Prime Minister, Senator Scullion and I moved very, very swiftly to establish the royal commission into the child protection and youth detention systems in the Northern Territory. So swiftly, I might say, that we were criticised by some for being too swift in our reaction. The decision to establish that royal commission was made mutually by the Prime Minister, Senator Scullion and myself the very morning after those serious allegations and that very disturbing footage, in particular, had come to light.

As you know, Senator Siewert, the royal commission has now reported. The government is, as you say, considering its recommendations. Most of the recommendations are matters within the jurisdiction of the Northern Territory government, as you would expect with it being a Northern Territory facility. However, the Australian government is considering those findings that are directed to the Commonwealth. We are committed to ensuring a comprehensive and appropriate response to the substantial work of the commission. I might take the opportunity presented by your question to thank the royal commissioners, the Honourable Margaret White and Mr Mick Gooda, who did a wonderful job. There has been nothing but praise for the job that Margaret White and Mick Gooda did.