The Government is committed to a process of genuine consultation with Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory.
The proposals set out in this paper will be discussed with communities from June through to September 2009. Interpreter services will be provided.
The consultation process will include:
- ongoing and specific consultations in all communities and town camps subject to the NTER
- regional workshops in Darwin, Katherine, Nhulunbuy, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs; and
- three regional workshops with key NT Aboriginal organisations.
As this discussion paper indicates, the Government believes that the current measures should continue – but the form of some of these measures may change.
The Government wants to hear community views about continuing the NTER measures and how they could be changed to deliver greater benefits. It is prepared to consider these views before finalising its position.
The Government proposes to introduce legislation in October 2009 to remove the current provisions that exclude the operation of the RDA in relation to the NTER. At the same time the Government would introduce legislation for any changes it decides to make to the individual NTER measures, following the consultation process.
Where changes are proposed, the Government will ensure that the transition to new arrangements is as smooth as possible. Government officials will continue to work closely with communities to explain the changes and support them in transition.
Individuals and communities affected by any changes will be provided with comprehensive and up-to-date information.
Stakeholders will also have opportunities to help plan the implementation of new arrangements.