Aboriginal Law Bulletin --- "News - Criminology Institute Offers Research Assistance; New Minister for Aboriginal Affairs" [1982] AboriginalLawB 36; (1982) 1(4) Aboriginal Law Bulletin 14

• News
• Criminology Institute Offers Research Assistance
• New Minister For Aboriginal Affairs

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News

Criminology Institute Offers Research Assistance

In a recent letter to the Aboriginal Law Bulletin, the Director of the Australian Institute of Criminology, Mr William Clifford, has indicated the Institute's readiness to undertake research in the 'Aborigines and criminal justice' area. The Institute wishes to establish:

• whether there is a need for series data relating to Aborigines and criminal justice
• the sorts of information that may be required.

The Institute has suggested there may be a need for quantitative information that indicates Aboriginal statistics with regard to:

• gaol populations and imprisonment rates
• adult and juvenile court appearances
• offences committed
• persons under supervision
• arrest rates

Mr Clifford notes that other categories of information may be required, for example, for specialised social policy formulation and for planning initiatives such as crime prevention programs and research innovations.

The Institute would welcome suggestions concerning the types of information that may be required. Once existing areas of need are established, decisions can be taken concerning data collection methods and ways to present and disseminate data once it has been gathered. Views, suggestions and comments may be forwarded to Mr W. Clifford, Director, Australian Institute of Criminology, PO Box 28, Woden, ACT, 2606.

New Minister for Aboriginal Affairs

Following the appointment of Senator Peter Baume to the Education portfolio, Mr Ian Wilson has become the new Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. Mr Wilson is a lawyer and the Member for Sturt in South Australia. He was previously the Minister for Home Affairs and Environment. In addition to his new portfolio, Mr Wilson has been appointed Minister Assisting the Minister for Social Security. In a recent statement, the new Minister commented:

The basic direction of the Government's policies will not change. Although many Aboriginals live and work successfully as ordinary members of the Australian community, the Federal Government does recognise that Aboriginals are a disadvantaged group requiring special programs and assistance. As Minister I will continue to support these programs.

Much has been achieved in recent years particularly in the field of Aboriginal land. I hope the spirit of tolerance and patience that has provided the environment for those achievements will be sustained in the future.

The Government's programs in Aboriginal affairs are based on consultation. One of my priorities will be to travel in the field and to be available to meet Aboriginal people and others interested in Aboriginal affairs.