Federal Inquiry Finds Systemic Racism Undermining Aboriginal Children and Women in Justice System

The three-month federal racism inquiry wrapped up in Melbourne, delivering a damning assessment of systemic bias in child-protection services and policing that harms First Nations women and children. Witnesses recounted cultural bullying in schools, assaults on Stolen Generations gatherings, and a climate that makes Aboriginal youth reluctant to identify themselves publicly. Aunty Muriel Bamblett warned that racism on social media, television and sport pushes children away from their heritage, while agencies fear backlash when labeling victims as Aboriginal.

Legal experts cited numerous cases where outdated child-protection policies led to the removal of newborns from their families, urging the Commonwealth to enshrine the Aboriginal child placement principle. Police neglect of domestic-violence complaints against Aboriginal women was also highlighted. Critics argued that the Closing the Gap targets are failing and called for genuine partnership, long-term funding for community-controlled services, and structural reform of public institutions. The final report is due to Parliament by year-end.