Katy Gallagher (ACT, Australian Labor Party, Minister for the Public Service) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Payman for the question. This government has a proud record in these last two years of focusing on delivering practical progress in Indigenous health. Since coming to government we've been taking a lot of different steps to tackle the critical gaps in health outcomes for Indigenous Australians, under Minister Burney's leadership, under Assistant Minister Kearney's leadership and under Minister McCarthy's leadership.

There are a range of different programs, Senator Payman, that are going into training First Nations health workers across the country, where we already have 180 students being enrolled, because that is key to providing services to remote parts of Australia—also around cancer care and around renal care.

I will take further advice on the issue you raise around alcohol and other drugs. I'm sure that there is work going on in that area. I don't have it in front of me, but I know we are taking a very broad approach to supporting First Nations communities.

I also agree with Senator Payman that it was a regrettable outcome from the referendum. Certainly, from our government's point of view, right throughout that time, that debate and subsequently the vote, we haven't changed the amount of effort that's going into the practical delivery of services and supports to First Nations communities right around the country, whether it be in metropolitan areas or more remote areas, as you outlined in your question, in WA, in the Northern Territory or anywhere else. We are a hundred per cent committed to making a difference and improving the health outcomes of First Nations Australians in this country.