The SA Greens are urging the State Government to immediately allow unrestricted access to Aboriginal State Archive records, following complaints that the access conditions make it impossible for First Nations community members to access family records.
These records provide assistance to community members, providing critical evidence to support stolen generations cases, and other important research for Aboriginal families.
In 2004, the former Attorney General, the Hon Michael Atkinson, instructed a virtual blanket-ban on the State Aboriginal Records, containing all archived correspondence of the Aborigines Department, out of concerns for legal professional privilege.
Quotes attributable to Tammy Franks MLC:
“Access to Aboriginal archives have been fundamental in supporting First Nations people through their Native Title claims, as well as knowing their family history.”
“The cost of improving access to our archives for First Nations people is not a cost. It is an investment in equity and better outcomes for First Nations communities.”
“We must continue to action all elements of the Uluru Statement from the Heart. Truth-telling is about understanding how yesterday’s actions drive the unjust structures of today.”