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Aboriginal Law Bulletin

Aboriginal Law Bulletin (ALB)
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Aboriginal Law Bulletin --- "ALB News: Killing Pardon; Treaty for 1990; Death in the Hands of the State; Senate Review of ATSIC" [1988] AboriginalLawB 34; (1988) 1(32) Aboriginal Law Bulletin 15


News – Aboriginal Law Bulletin June 1988

Killing Pardon

A pardon has been sought from the Governor of Queensland for Kelvin Condron, a 27 year old Aboriginal man who has spent the past five years in jail for the murder of an Aboriginal woman. Significant new evidence coupled with contentious evidence from the initial trial casts further doubt on the possibility of Condren having committed the crime. A High Court appeal lodged against his conviction has been deferred [ see case note, AboriginalLB No.29] pending the outcome of the petition for a pardon.

Treaty for 1990

On 12th June, the Prime Minister Mr Hawke, again pledged his commitment to the Government making a formal agreement with the Aboriginal people. Significantly, this time he referred to the proposed agreement as a treaty, which is in contrast to his earlier description of it as a compact. As a preliminary to negotiations on the actual terms, the Prime Minister promised the necessary financial assistance to enable a committee of seven elders to properly organise consultations with Aboriginal people throughout Australia on what they want recognised in the treaty. Speaking to about 6,000 Aborigines at the Barunga Festival near Katherine, he set early 1990 as the target date for the signing. The Opposition Leader, Mr Howard, reacted immediately by threatening to 'tear up' the treaty if elected after it was signed. He claimed such a treaty would divide the country and set up a form of apartheid. His hasty reaction, however has drawn criticism, including from other Liberal Party Members, and has shown up basic differences within the Opposition over policies towards Black Australia.

Death in the Hands of the State

A collection of critical essays on police and prison deaths in N.S.W. Recently published by Redfem Legal Centre Publishing, the book includes chapters by Michael Hogan on 'The Death of Eddie Murray' and 'Aboriginal Deaths In Custody'. Other issues examined include coronial investigations and the need for public scrutiny of State Agencies.

Cost : $12
Redfem Legal Centre Publishing
18 George Street, Redfern NSW 2016

Senate Review of ATSIC

Proposals for the establishment of the new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC), as outlined in 'Foundations for the Future, met with strong opposition from the Aboriginal Development Commission, leading to the recent dismissal of eight of the ten Commissioners.

Criticism of Mr.Hand's, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, action of dismissal came from a number of quarters. In response to representations from Aboriginal individuals and organisations, the Australian Democrats opted to support the setting up of a Senate Select Committe, on a six month time lirnit, to review the legislation relating to ATSIC. Senator John Coulter, the Democrat's spokesperson on Aboriginal Affairs and member of the Committee, has stated that ‘six months will give Aborigines an opportnity to study the draft bill and suggest possible ammendments if necessary.’


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