International Human Rights Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing human rights abuses faced by First Nations children in Australia.

“This year’s International Human Rights Day theme, ‘Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,’ is a call to governments everywhere to focus on human rights as a pathway to solutions,” Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner, Katie Kiss stated. “Instead, we witness a continued disregard for the rights and wellbeing of our children. Recent events, such as the lowering of the age of criminal responsibility in the Northern Territory and the passage of the deeply problematic Making Queensland Safer Bill, demonstrate a disturbing trend of policies that prioritise punishment over prevention and support.”

The Commissioner expressed grave concerns about the potential impact of these policies, particularly on First Nations children who are already disproportionately represented in the youth justice system. “Around 62% of the Queensland youth detention population is First Nations children,” Ms Kiss highlighted. “This legislation will undoubtedly exacerbate this overrepresentation and potentially lead to devastating long-term consequences for these young people.”

Ms Kiss emphasised the need for a shift in focus towards preventative measures and community-led solutions. “Our governments should be working to find positive solutions and investing in education, health, and community-led services for First Nations children,” she stated. “Locking children up does not address the root causes of youth crime and will only further traumatise these young people.”

The Commissioner called upon all levels of government to uphold their international human rights obligations and prioritise the wellbeing of First Nations children. “Governments have a duty to deliver programs, policies, and legislation that are underpinned by universal human rights,” she said. “These standards are a safety net for Australia’s First Nations children, and we must ensure that their rights are upheld and protected.”

Ms Kiss acknowledged the tireless work of Indigenous colleagues who continue to advocate for the rights and wellbeing of First Nations children. “Their dedication and resilience in the face of adversity are truly inspiring,” she said.

International Human Rights Day serves as a crucial reminder that we must all work towards a future where the rights and dignity of all children, particularly First Nations children, are respected and upheld.

Also read: Urgent reform needed to protect First Nations women and children