Lowitja Institute/VACCHO study points to clear accountability gap in Victoria

A joint study between Lowitja Institute and VACCHO – Victorian Aboriginal Authority: an initial feasibility study for discussion – underscores the urgent need for a dedicated Aboriginal-led accountability body to ensure government transparency and strengthen oversight of Victorian Government initiatives for Aboriginal peoples.

The discussion paper reveals that there is a clear accountability gap in Victoria. This points to a role for a permanent, dedicated Aboriginal-led entity with independent power, designed to:

• improve the responsiveness and impact of Government policies, programs and services that affect the needs and safety of Aboriginal peoples
• enhance Government accountability for the effective design, delivery, and monitoring of commitments to Aboriginal peoples
• meet existing Government commitments to increase accountability in supporting improved outcomes for Aboriginal people in Victoria.

Lowitja Institute and VACCHO call on the Victorian Government to consider the accountability of policies, programs, and services that affect Aboriginal peoples and communities. This study demonstrates how this type of entity can support a strong and sustainable future for mob, both in Victoria and across the country.

For more information on the report, see our recent joint media release.