Additional Comments from Government Senators

Introduction

1.1Labor Senators would like to thank witnesses that came forward during this inquiry, who were willing to share their experiences of immense tragedy and loss with the committee.

1.2The evidence heard throughout this inquiry clearly demonstrates a need for collective action across all governments on missing and murdered First Nations women and children.

Division of state and territory responsibilities

1.3While Labor Senators agree on the need for action to address the clearly identified problems in this report, we wish to note our concern that the implementation of some of the mechanisms put forward in the majority report as solutions may not be practical.

1.4In particular, a number of recommendations to the Commonwealth are also the responsibility of states and territories.

1.5In relation to Recommendation 2, for example, the Commonwealth Attorney-General does not have the power to impose standards and practices on state and territory police forces. We believe this recommendation would be better targeted at state and territory governments. This concern extends to the related Recommendation 3.

Independence of the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO)

1.6The ANAO is an independent body, and as such it is vital its integrity be maintained. Although Recommendation 8 notes its independence, it still seeks to direct ANAO to do particular work. Labor Senators hold concerns about any interference of the independence of the ANAO.

1.7However, scrutiny is important and we note existing mechanisms – including Senate estimates – to hold government departments to account on the implementation of their commitments.

Conclusion

1.8Labor Senators believe it is important that the focus on First Nations missing and murdered women and children does not end with this committee report.

1.9We have an obligation to the families who came forward and shared their trauma to ensure that this report is not the end of an important inquiry but the start of important work to make things better. Labor Senators are committed to fulfilling that obligation.