WA indigenous leaders on reform councils

Indigenous leaders have been appointed to help the WA government with its plan to reduce the number of small Aboriginal communities.

Eight indigenous leaders will advise the West Australian government on its plan to "reform" small and remote Aboriginal communities.

Premier Colin Barnett sparked a furore in November when he said the state had no option but to consider cutting essential services to up to 150 of the communities after the Commonwealth removed its 50 per cent funding.

He's since said the number was a rough guess but maintains there will be significantly fewer communities than the current 274 in years to come.

On Tuesday, Child Protection Minister Helen Morton and Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said the long-term process would enable better education, health and employment outcomes.

"The consistent message we have been getting is that the status quo is not acceptable and so we are looking forward to closer engagement with the selected leaders on how positive change can be achieved," Mr Redman said.

ABORIGINAL LEADERS ON WA COMMUNITIES REFORM COUNCILS:

Kimberley Council - Patrick Davies, Brenda Garstone, Mary O'Reeri and Martin Sibosado

Pilbara Council - Adrian Brahim, Kate George, Triscilla Holborow and Jason Masters


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Source: AAP


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