Tasmanian Aboriginal groups decry online racism and internal division at federal inquiry

During a national inquiry into racism against First Nations people, Tasmanian Aboriginal leaders reported hateful social-media comments and internal disputes over identity.

At a parliamentary inquiry into racism, hate and violence toward First Nations peoples, Tasmanian Aboriginal leaders recounted a wave of abusive online comments aimed at a ranger team and at elders after social-media posts. Nick Cameron of the Tasmanian Regional Aboriginal Communities Alliance highlighted insults about skin colour and accusations of "white fraud" that forced the group to close comments. Peter Rowe of First Peoples Tasmania reported similar attacks on his identity and blamed the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre for fostering lateral violence and denying him health services.

Both speakers stressed that internal divisions and a lack of cooperation among Aboriginal bodies undermine efforts to improve health, reduce suicides, and meet Closing the Gap targets. The Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre declined to comment, while its campaign coordinator, Nala Mansell, warned that state control over identity and heritage perpetuates racism. Aboriginal Affairs Minister Bridget Archer recognised historic and ongoing systemic racism, citing over-representation of Aboriginal children in care and youth justice as examples.