A Better Future for Indigenous Australians

The Government is tackling key areas that give prospect for a better way of life for Indigenous Australians. Initiatives costing $748 million over the five years from 2006-07 seek to deal better with the Indigenous housing problem, provide greater educational opportunities for children and young people, explore new approaches to health care, and ensure a greater focus on employment.

The measures include:

• $294 million over four years for major reform in Indigenous housing. This investment is in addition to existing funding and

• will provide for the construction of housing and an expanded programme for repairs and maintenance of existing housing in remote areas
• $239 million over five years to provide financial assistance, scholarships, training and employment opportunities for Indigenous young people from rural and remote areas. As well as education and job placements in urban and regional centres, this includes $114 million in new funding for boarding schools and student hostels
• $46 million over four years for increased access to child care

• and improved early childhood support, including playgroup services which will benefit around 6,100 Indigenous children
• $149 million over four years for early intervention and family based health initiatives and best practice and quality of care standards in Indigenous health services
• $61 million over four years to create real economic opportunities by converting Community Development Employment Project positions in government service delivery into formal jobs.