Page 2290 - Week 07 - Thursday, 16 June 1994

Many of the Commission's recommendations highlighted the need for the collection of

better data, particularly regarding aspects of the criminal justice system. In order to address

this need, an Integrated Justice Information System is in the process of being developed

which will enhance the existing systems and link facilities on a computerised data base. The

proposed system will provide data to record the progression of a detainee through the

criminal justice system in the ACT, including the self identification of Aboriginality. Funds

have been allocated to employ a consultant to identify all relevant requirements, including

security and privacy issues.

ABORIGINAL PEOPLES AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDERS AND AUSTRALIAN

SOCIETY

The Royal Commission spoke of the need for a deeper understanding between the

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and the wider society. The Commission

found that non-Aboriginal society needed to change its attitudes towards Aboriginal

peoples and Torres Strait Islanders if the inequalities faced by Aboriginal peoples and

Torres Strait Islanders were to be addressed. The Commission also recommended that

relationships with Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders should be based on the

principles of selfdetermination.

In response to this need, the ACT Government has established programs to train

providers of government services in sensitivity to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

culture and to raise public awareness of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders.

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